Coho Fishing in the Warm Springs River

For the second year in a row, Tribal Council has opened the Warm Springs River to coho salmon fishing. Resolution No. 13,341 authorizes fishing from the mouth of the river up to the hatchery weir, and tribal members are encouraged to review the full resolution for all details.

Hatchery staff have a few requests for anyone fishing near the facility: please stay at least 200 feet downstream from the fish ladder, and remember that drugs, alcohol, and firearms are prohibited under the resolution. On weekdays, anglers can park at the visitor center and walk to the designated fishing areas.

If the hatchery entry gate is closed, fishermen should park in the turn‑around road next to it, leaving enough room for service vehicles to reach the green power box. Remember, only coho may be kept — all other fish must be released unharmed.

To reach fishing areas downstream of the hatchery, walk toward the chain‑link fence and take a left at the large boulder.

Fishing is allowed anywhere downstream of the boulder, but people should stay out of the pollution‑abatement pond on the left. On some days, the hatchery will be giving away excess coho. If you don’t catch fish, staff may be able to provide fish directly — just check in with them.

Harvest & Parks Manager Mark Manion says, “Warm Springs River coho arrive at the hatchery in good condition, still showing some shine with firm meat. It’s a great chance to bring kids out and teach them to fish — the drive is short, there are plenty of places to cast a line, and the fish quality is strong.”