Oregon's Winter Wonderland: More Than Just Sunshine

Oregon's winter sunshine is more than just a weather report. It's an open invitation for anglers to grab their rods and hit the water. With steelhead fishing facing challenges in low, clear waters, many are turning their attention to trout fishing. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife has kicked off its trout stocking schedule, with trucks rolling out across the Willamette Valley and beyond. Henry Hagg Lake near Forest Grove is a hotspot, now open year-round. It's not just about the newly stocked trout; the lake also holds wintering bass and panfish. The stocking schedule is a bit of a puzzle, listing only the week of the stocking, not the exact day. But hey, that's part of the fun, right? Ice anglers aren't left out in the cold. While eastern Oregon's mild weather has kept ice at bay in many spots, Diamond Lake is frozen over. Resort managers there have shared some handy ice thickness guidelines to keep anglers safe. Chickahominy Reservoir near Burns is another gem, partially iced over but still offering great trout fishing opportunities.The Pacific Northwest Sportsmen’s Show is back, with events in Puyallup, Portland, and Redmond. It's a chance for outdoor enthusiasts to gather, learn, and maybe even win some raffles. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife will be there, offering hunter education field days. If you've got a youngster eager to hunt, now's the time to enroll them. On a more serious note, there's been a potential case of chronic wasting disease in a mule deer near the Canadian border. While it's not confirmed, it's a reminder for hunters to stay vigilant. Meanwhile, rumors about the Alsea hatchery closure have been put to rest. It was all a bureaucratic mix-up, and the hatchery is safe for now. So, what's the takeaway? Oregon's winter sunshine is a blessing for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. It's a time to explore, learn, and enjoy the great outdoors. So, grab your gear and go fish!