optimum santiam flows?

[Eric]

Hey fellas,

I used to fish the santiams years ago when I went to OSU and now have opportunity to come down and fish with an old friend for a few days. I've read the flows on the north and south forks have been fluctuating quite a bit and messing up the bite. I don't want to waste a trip on crappy conditions as I am driving quite a ways.

It's been so long ago that I don't remeber the optimal flows. I actually prefer low and clear conditions. Would anyone be willing to share numbers for the north and south fork?

That's all I need. If you'd be more comfortable e-mailing that's fine to.

Thanks.

[ 06-12-2001: Message edited by: Eric ]

[NEUTRON]

I would say 3.5 on the mehama gauge for the north fork, it has been 3.4 to 3.5 for the last week or better. Recycling lots of summers from the hatchery. good luck.

[willierower]

The South was in excellent shape yesterday morning. Te river was 3.5 on the Waterloo guage. I took my wife and sister down from Wiey Creek to Pleasant Valley. We saw 6 fish hooked before the USACE jacked the water up and down. This caused all the moss on te river bottom to break free. It got so bad you couldnt even fish.
As far as the river level, It is good. As it gets lower it will get better. Just hope the moss doesnt get any worse.

[chuck 'n' duck]

Eric:

The "optimum" flow on the S. Santiam is approx. 1500 cfs. However, don't be really concerned about this. There are alot of fish in the system right now. Due to the fluxuating flows, the bite has been on and off. If you hit it hard during your couple of days off, you should do alright. Especially if they hold the flow constant for a couple of days prior to your visit.

I might see you out there. I'll be in a 17 ft. green Willie.

Good Luck,

CnD

[Eric]

Thanks guys! Appreciate the info.

Eric