Yes, you need a permit for the Middle Fork Salmon River. The permit system is managed by The Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Depending on how you plan to access the Middle Fork Salmon River, you may need either a permit from the National Recreation Reservation Service or the local office of the BLM.
Recreation permits are issued for recreational use of the river, such as camping, fishing, hunting, and motor boating. These permits are only valid for seven days, and they cost $5 per person per day.
In addition to the recreation permit, you may need a commercial use authorization (CUA). This permit is required for any commercial use, such as guiding service companies, shuttle services, commercial photography, filming, and research projects.
The permit fee is based on the type of proposed activity and will vary depending on the number of people involved.
Finally, you may need a special use permit if you plan to do anything beyond the general recreational use of the Middle Fork Salmon River. This could include installing structures, such as permanent camp sites or a bridge, or operating a vehicle in an area that requires a permit.
Special use permits are issued on a case-by-case basis, and fees vary depending on the activity.
If you plan to use the Middle Fork Salmon River, it is important to check with the BLM office about the permits that are required for your specific activity.
How low can you run the Middle Fork of the Salmon?
The Middle Fork of the Salmon River has a wide range of river levels that can be run depending on the amount of water being released from the dam. Depending on the time of year, the river can range from a low of about 1,000 cubic feet per second (cfs) to a high of 12,000 cfs.
At the lower end, when the river is running around 1,000-1,200 cfs, the river can be reasonably navigated if you have the knowledge of where to go as most of the rapids are shallow and not too difficult.
However, if you are not experienced at reading the river, it is recommended that you seek out local knowledge and hire an experienced guide to ensure a safe float for everyone. At higher flows, the river tends to be much more challenging, and a higher level of skill and experience is needed to navigate safely.
Do you need a waterway access permit in Oregon?
Yes, if you are planning to use a waterway in Oregon, you will need a waterway access permit. This permit is available from the Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB). It is required for any vessels that plan to launch and operate in Oregon inland waters.
The permit serves three primary purposes: It helps to ensure vessels are equipped to handle the particular waterway they are using; it helps provides access to certain waterways; and it helps to support the enforcement and safety of Oregon waterways.
The cost of the permit varies depending on the type of vessel and use. Generally, it is required of all vessels used in the navigable waters of the state, with some exceptions, such as small vessels propelled by oars, paddle or hand.
Boaters must obtain and carry a valid permit at all times, regardless of where the vessel was launched. Failure to comply can result in license revocation or a fine.
How deep is the water in the Salmon River?
The depth of the water in the Salmon River varies greatly depending on the time of year and the location within the river. During the summer months, when the river is at its highest, the depths can range from 6 to 12 feet in the main channel of the river.
In other areas, such as shallow areas near the banks, the water may only be a few inches deep. During the winter months, however, when the flow of the river is at its lowest, the depths can drop off significantly, with the main channel only reaching depths of 1 to 4 feet.
Additionally, there can be a wide range of depths within a single section of river, with deeper pools, rapids, and riffles.
How many salmon can you keep on the Salmon River?
The amount of salmon you can keep on the Salmon River is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. According to their 2019 regulations, the catch limit of salmon per angler is one salmon per day, with a season limit of three salmon.
An angler can keep only one salmon per day, regardless of size. Additionally, anglers cannot retain any salmon less than 15 inches in length and are limited to keeping a maximum of two coho salmon per season.
The season runs annually from May 15 – October 15. There are size limits and certain tributary restrictions that apply, so be sure to check the regulations before fishing.
Is the Salmon River open to fishing?
Yes, the Salmon River is open to fishing. The Salmon River is home to various species of fish including several types of salmon, steelhead, and trout. Fishing is currently permitted in many parts of the river.
Fishing licenses are required when fishing in the Salmon River, which can be obtained at regional Department of Fish and Wildlife offices.
The season for fishing in the Salmon River runs from mid-April to the end of October each year. Anglers can expect to catch a wide variety of fish, depending on the time of year. During the spring and summer months, salmon and trout can be caught, while steelhead will enter the river during the fall months.
Additionally, the Salmon River provides plenty of opportunities for anglers to catch catch and release fish. Fishing here is catch and release below the North Fork confluence, for example. There are also catch-and-release and selective gear rules in certain other portions of the river.
Finally, anglers fishing the Salmon River are required to check-in at the river station and check-out at the end of their trip. This is a required safety measure, making it easy to monitor the number of anglers and their safety on the river.