Portland, OR – The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has enacted significant emergency measures impacting recreational steelhead fishing across several key state rivers. Citing alarmingly low population forecasts, the agency announced Emergency Conservation Order EO-25-CR-07, which implements strict new rules effective May 1, 2025.
The order specifically targets wild steelhead populations in designated segments of iconic waterways including the North Umpqua and Deschutes rivers, among others crucial to the species’ survival and recovery. Under the new regulations, anglers will be required to practice mandatory catch-and-release for wild steelhead in specified zones. Additionally, the order mandates the complete closure of certain tributaries within these river systems to all fishing activities, irrespective of species sought.
The Urgency Behind the Order
This decisive action follows recent data indicating a precipitous decline in expected steelhead runs. Dr. Evelyn Reed, Director of the ODFW, stated that the decision was based on forecasts for the 2025 runs, which are predicted to be a troubling 30% below the 10-year average. This metric reflects critically low population levels, prompting the agency to determine that immediate intervention is necessary to protect the future viability of these fish populations.
Steelhead, a type of rainbow trout that migrates to the ocean, are a culturally and ecologically significant species in Oregon. Their populations have faced numerous challenges, including habitat degradation, climate change impacts, and historical fishing pressures. The projected 30% drop below the decade-long average signals a critical juncture, according to wildlife officials, demanding stringent measures to prevent further depletion and allow potential recovery.
Details of the Restrictions
Emergency Conservation Order EO-25-CR-07 introduces targeted, rather than statewide, restrictions, focusing on rivers and segments where the conservation need is deemed most acute. The mandatory catch-and-release requirement for wild steelhead means that any wild steelhead caught must be immediately and carefully returned to the water unharmed. This differs from regulations that might allow for the retention of hatchery-origin steelhead (often identifiable by a clipped adipose fin), though the order’s primary focus appears to be on protecting the wild, naturally reproducing segment of the population.
The complete closure of specific tributaries represents an even more protective measure. Tributaries often serve as critical spawning and rearing grounds for wild steelhead. Closing them entirely shields these vulnerable areas from any potential fishing-related disturbance, offering maximum protection to young fish and spawning adults.
The order specifies that these measures are intended to be a temporary response. The duration of the restrictions is tied to the goal of population recovery, suggesting that the ODFW will monitor future run sizes and habitat conditions to determine when the emergency measures can be modified or lifted.
Consultation and Collaboration
Before implementing such impactful regulations, the ODFW engaged in extensive consultation. The announcement noted significant discussions with tribal partners, who hold treaty rights and possess deep traditional knowledge regarding these fisheries. Consultation also included various stakeholder groups, such as the \”Oregon Wild Salmon Alliance,\” an organization dedicated to the conservation of native fish species.
This collaborative approach underscores the complex nature of fisheries management, balancing conservation imperatives with recreational, economic, and cultural interests. The ODFW emphasizes that while the emergency nature of the situation necessitated rapid action, input from those most affected was a crucial step in the process.
Looking Ahead
Dr. Reed and the ODFW have framed these restrictions not as a permanent curtailment of fishing opportunities, but as a necessary, albeit difficult, step to safeguard a valuable natural resource for the future. The success of the order in facilitating population recovery will depend on various factors, including environmental conditions in both freshwater and marine environments, as well as angler compliance with the new rules.
The agency stated it will continue to monitor steelhead populations and evaluate the effectiveness of the emergency order. Future decisions regarding fishing regulations will be informed by updated data and further consultation with partners and stakeholders, with the ultimate aim being the health and sustainability of Oregon’s wild steelhead runs.
