Montana Fish Report
Sandy River Updates
by OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff
8-8-2025
Website
Summer steelhead and spring Chinook can be found throughout the system. There has been a moderate amount of pressure below the hatchery and around Cedar Cr., where mostly summer steelhead are being caught. While Chinook are throughout the river, anglers will do best targeting hatchery fish from Dodge Park downstream, as all our hatchery spring Chinook production is acclimated in the Bull Run River, which enters the Sandy at Dodge Park. Low water has made floating a challenge, but wading the river has become more approachable. Often Chinook can be found in the more shallow, fast and broken water that might get overlooked by other anglers.
Flow and visibility on the Sandy are greatly influenced by each passing front and change in snow levels. Colder temperatures, as well as less precipitation, means this glacially-fed system will not only be on the drop but will also clear up much more quickly.
Anglers should confirm access before they go. All Metro Parks and boat ramps (including Dabney and Lewis and Clark) are now open but may have modified operations. Check conditions at individual parks on Metro's website. State parks and recreation areas appear open.