My fellow river rats:

My family is headed back to South-West Washington for Spring-break to see the in-laws. I, however will be getting reaquainted with my old friend the Cowlitz river. Does anyone no what may be running during the first half of march?? I obviously would think that the springers will be in, but what about the steelies? I fish from the bank at Blue Creek and up at Barrier Dam, does anyone have any advice for me?? Thanks a lot!!

Dave

There probably won't be many spring chinook showing up at that time. But you'd do well to focus on steelhead. WDFW has increased production of later winter steelhead to help with recovery of these fish in the upper river basin above the dams. Check the regulations before fishing. You may retain adipose clipped steelhead, but not the unmarked ones or the ventral fin clipped ones. However, you can retain the ventral clipped ones if they are caught in the upper basin above Cowlitz Falls Dam.

I wouldn't expect hot action, but there should be fish steadily trickling in during the time you're here.

Sincerely,

Salmo g.