The highway along the upper North Santiam has re-opened but many places will look a lot different. Traffic delays are common because of hazard tree removal. Be aware that there are still many dangerous tree snags around with root structures weakened by fire and that could come down at any moment. It will be safer to fish in unburned areas further upstream (above Whitewater Creek). 

In general, this river is open year-round to fishing. About 2,800 hatchery trout are being released this week in multiple locations. Most trout can be found from Marion Forks down to the mouth and are fairly well distributed. Flies and spinners work best, but bait is allowed.

The river is slowly dropping and will continue to drop as the summer progresses. Currently it is flowing around 470 cfs where it enters Detroit Lake.  

Anglers may keep up to five trout per day. Remember, this section of river is closed to salmon fishing.