Testing the Waters

New Year's Day always brings a fresh start, a chance to wipe the slate clean and move forward, writing the next chapter optimistically. It is also a time to reflect on how much or how little you used that fishing license in 2024 as you log on to add to the coffers of ODFW. As an "Oregon Pioneer," I must say that it is slightly less painful than it used to be.

With a freshly updated angling portfolio unloaded to our phones, Jennifer and I slipped off to the Clackamas River on New Year's Day to get some fresh air and rinse the dust off idle Spey Rods. The monsoons of December had throttled back slightly, allowing local waters to start a shortlived downward trend. We hit it on the drop, but the water still washed over the shoreline willows. Nevertheless, feeling the chilly water pushing on waders was good as we worked through the run, optimistically casting under threatening skies. Steelheaders are naturally optimistic.

For those of you keeping score at home, the rains returned, and it wasn't until this week that we saw a more favorable weather outlook for our local Steelhead waters. Current trends are encouraging for the next few weeks, so it's time to break out your winter togs and hit the water. Be sure to check your waders for pinholes before stepping in at the deep end of the pool.

The Clackamas kicked out a few fish early this week but was running over optimum for fly swingers. As it continues to drop, success rates should bump up and be more suitable for 10 feet of T-11, and one of the Fly Czar's favorite flies. Visibility is good and improving. It won't be long and we'll all be wishing for more rain.

Over on the Sandy, it's been the same story. The Fly Czar has been chasing Redfish down south, so we'll be getting updates from here on as he cranks up his winter game. Until then, it is up to you to write your fishing report as we chase our Steelhead dreams in 2025.