The Hatchery Hole, which encompasses the reach of river from Cole Rivers Hatchery Blocker Dam to 1,200 feet downstream, is currently closed to ALL FISHING through July 31. In the remainder of the upper Rogue, only hatchery steelhead and hatchery spring Chinook can be retained.

Anglers are mostly targeting spring Chinook in the upper River right now. Only hatchery Chinook may be retained. Plugs wrapped with an anchovy/herring are usually the ticket. There are still hatchery steelhead around as well.

Trout fishing on the mainstem Rogue is open. Only adipose fin-clipped trout may be retained. Summer steelhead are starting to show and cutthroat fishing has been very good. 

As of June 9, two more winter steelhead entered the ladder at Cole Rivers Hatchery, bringing this year’s total to 1,556 fish and pretty close to being the end of the run. Additionally, 88 spring Chinook also entered the ladder at Cole Rivers Hatchery, bringing the year’s total to 255 fish. Ten additional summer steelhead entered the ladder bringing the total to 12 fish for the year.                                                                        

Flows have decreased from last week and are 2,457 cfs coming out of William L. Jess Dam.  The McCloud gauge is reading 2,510 cfs with temperatures in the low 50s. It should be easier for drift boaters to hold in pools and runs when backbouncing.

Locally-owned and operated tackle and fly shops in Medford, Shady Cove, and Ashland have excellent gear and very fresh bait, local flies and knowledge that is specific to the Rogue and to your particular technique. Go check them out and offer them support during this time.

For the latest fish counts, call into the Lost Creek Reservoir hotline or check the MyODFW.com fish counts page.

For the most current releases of water out of Lost Creek Reservoir, call 1-800-472-2434. For real time streamflow from USGS gauges on the Rogue click here.