Idaho Fish Report

The Nestucca gets a run of hatchery spring Chinook and there have been some fish getting caught consistently, mostly down in the estuary near Pacific City. There have also been a few caught upriver and Cedar Creek hatchery continues to recycle those coming into the trap downstream to Pacific City for additional angling opportunity, they sent a dozen back downriver last week. With the Nestucca being at very low flows, most fish will be stacking up in the bay. Trolling herring or fishing plugs from anchor are effective techniques in the lower estuary, while further upstream bobber fishing bait is a go-to technique.

The Little Nestucca also gets a release of hatchery spring Chinook which should be returning. Pressure is often light on this sub basin as the majority of fish are in the main Nestucca, but anglers willing to put some time in should be able to find fish. Fishing in tidewater was slow over the weekend but there should be some fish below Stella Falls.

There is a run of hatchery summer steelhead in the Nestucca and a few have returned to the adult trap at Cedar Creek hatchery indicating there are some in the river. The best fishing will be in the lower river from Cloverdale to Three Rivers during the early season. Light float fishing set ups with terminal baits like beads, jigs or small natural baits, as well as casting spoons or spinners can be effective. Early morning and late evening will be the best times to fish, although if there's good cloud cover or a little rain fish may stay on the bite more of the day.

Trout season opened in the Nestucca and Little Nestucca on May 22nd. The low clear water can make fishing a little challenging, but cutthroat are aggressive biters so use light line and stealthy tactics, concentrate on deep pools with cover, and you should find success. Many areas have bait restrictions in place so check the regulations for those and open areas before heading out.