Siuslaw at Cushman
The Siuslaw River, flowing through the scenic Oregon Coast Range, offers excellent fishing opportunities near Florence, with Cushman serving as a popular access point. The river is renowned for its fall Chinook salmon runs, typically harvesting 3,000 to 5,000 kings during better seasons, making it one of Oregon’s premier salmon fishing destinations.
Quick Info
Fishing Opportunities
The Siuslaw River near Cushman offers excellent fishing for fall Chinook salmon, with peak runs typically occurring from September through November. Anglers also target winter steelhead from December to March.
Access Points
Public boat ramps are available in the area, providing access to the river for both boat and bank anglers. The Cushman area is known for productive fishing spots, including the stretch between Cushman and the Dairy Hole.
Fishing Techniques
Popular methods include trolling with plug-cut herring or spinners for Chinook salmon and using bobber and bait setups for steelhead. Observing local anglers can provide insights into effective techniques and locations.
Regulations
Anglers should consult the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s regulations for specific rules, including seasonal closures and catch limits. As of October 28, 2024, fall Chinook fishing is open on the Siuslaw River, with fishing reported as fair.
Facilities
While amenities in Cushman are limited, nearby Florence offers accommodations, dining, and tackle shops to support fishing activities.
Additional Information
The Siuslaw River is known for its scenic beauty, with lush forests and abundant wildlife, enhancing the overall fishing experience.
Scenic Views of Siuslaw River
The Siuslaw River offers breathtaking scenic views that complement its excellent fishing opportunities. As it winds through the Central Oregon Coast Range, the river presents a picturesque landscape of lush forests, coastal sand dunes, and diverse wildlife habitats.
- Cape Perpetua Scenic Area: Located near the river’s mouth, this viewpoint rises 800 feet above the Pacific Ocean, offering panoramic vistas of the Siuslaw estuary and surrounding coastline
- Siuslaw River Bridge: This historic bridge in Florence provides stunning views of the river meeting the ocean, especially at sunset
- Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area: Accessible from the river’s southern banks, these massive sand dunes offer unique views of the river’s interaction with the coastal landscape
- Sweet Creek Falls Trail: Located in the upper Siuslaw watershed, this trail showcases the river’s forested beauty with a series of cascading waterfalls
The river’s scenery changes dramatically with the seasons, from misty winter mornings to vibrant fall colors reflected in its waters. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot Roosevelt elk, black bears, or various bird species along the riverbanks, adding to the area’s natural allure.
Sources:
McKenzie Guide Service, Oregon Fishing Trips, On the Line Guide Service
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