Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) will once again stock fish into Scout Lake in Clatskanie on a trial basis, as announced today by Asst. District Fish Biologist, Danette Ehlers.?? ODFW would like to gauge the public's interest in this opportunity and are asking anglers to provide feedback to Ehlers by calling (971) 673-6013.

Stocking fish into Scout Lake was discontinued in the mid 1980's due to restricted public access.?? Through a past donation made by private land owners (Evenson Timberland Agency), the city now owns the land and has been working with local groups to once again make this small lake a recreation destination.?? Access to the lake is available most of the way by automobile up to a locked gate.?? From there, anglers and campers will need to hike approximately ?? - 1 mile to Scout Lake or sign out a key to the gate from the City of Clatskanie at 95 S. Nehalem.?? More information can be attained by calling the City at 503-728-2622.

"It's been nice working with the City and local volunteers to restore this fishing opportunity in the Clatskanie area," says Ehlers.?? "It's a very peaceful, natural environment."?? Logan Angel, a Rainier Eagle Scout assisted the project by working with local volunteer, Bob Tosh to install a state approved fish screen.

ODFW will stock the week of May 21 with 400 catchable size rainbow trout.?? Scout Lake is also home to native cutthroat trout.?? ODFW recommends release of wild cutthroat and harvest of hatchery rainbow trout.

To get to Scout Lake take Highway 30 to Clatskanie approximately twelve miles from the Lewis and Clark Bridge.?? Take the Swede Town Road Exit, then turn right onto Olson Road.?? Follow Scout Lake signs posted along Olson Road up to the locked gate.