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.

Prime Fishing Spots at Cushman

Cushman, located on the Siuslaw River east of Florence, offers prime fishing spots for anglers seeking salmon and steelhead. The area features a paved public dock that provides excellent access for both boat and bank fishing. This location is particularly popular during the fall salmon season, typically from mid-September through October, when Chinook and coho salmon make their way upriver.Key fishing spots near Cushman include:

  • The public dock itself, which offers a stable platform for casting
  • Nearby rip-rapped banks, providing good footing for shore anglers
  • The long tidewater stretch extending upriver towards Mapleton, accessible by boat
  • Rhododendron Drive area, just downstream from Cushman, known for productive bank fishing

Anglers should note that while Cushman provides convenient access, the most productive fishing often occurs by covering more water, either by boat or by exploring different bank access points along the river. The scenery around Cushman features typical Oregon coastal forest, with the river winding through a picturesque valley. Nearby amenities include parking areas and basic facilities, though more extensive services can be found in Florence, a short drive away.

Chinook and Coho Salmon Runs

The Siuslaw River is renowned for its impressive Chinook and Coho salmon runs, attracting anglers from across the region. Fall Chinook, also known as King salmon, typically arrive in the bay off Florence by August, with peak fishing occurring from mid-September through October. These prized fish can reach weights of up to 60 pounds, with the average catch ranging from 18-30 pounds. Coho salmon, also called Silver salmon, run slightly later than Chinook, usually from late September through December. While smaller than Chinook, averaging 5-20 pounds, Coho are known for their aggressive behavior and acrobatic fights, often jumping out of the water when hooked. The Siuslaw’s salmon populations have faced challenges, with Coho numbers declining significantly over the past century. However, conservation efforts and careful management aim to sustain these vital runs for future generations of anglers and the river’s ecosystem.

FLORENCE

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

Wikipedia, Best Fishing in America, myodfw.org

Related Articles

Events, Outdoors, Sports & Wildlife

Oakridge Tree Planting Festival

Oakridge Tree Planting Festival

by | Apr 23, 2025 | Community, Events, Local Attractions, Outdoors | 0 Comments

Festival Overview The Oakridge Tree Planting Festival, now in its 72nd year, is a vibrant celebration held from May 1-4, 2025, in Oakridge, Oregon. It’s known for...

Rooted in Care Join Florence's Arbor Day Tree Planting at Gallagher Park

Rooted in Care: Join Florence’s Arbor Day Tree Planting at Gallagher Park

by | Apr 19, 2025 | Community, Events, News, Outdoors, Uncategorized | 0 Comments

Florence, OR – On Saturday, April 26, 2025 experience a quiet kind of joy that comes from giving back to the land you call home. The occasion? Arbor Day—a day that...

Celebrate Earth Day the Oregon Way: Music, Plants, and Pints at Beergarden in Eugene

Celebrate Earth Day the Oregon Way: Music, Plants, and Pints at Beergarden in Eugene

by | Apr 18, 2025 | Culture, Events, Food & Drink, News | 0 Comments

Eugene, OR – April 19–20, 2025 – This weekend, nature lovers and craft beer fans alike will raise their glasses to the planet. Beergarden, one of Eugene’s most beloved...

Draw Your Breath Join the Mindful Drawing Group in Florence for Artful Relaxation

Draw Your Breath: Join the Mindful Drawing Group in Florence for Artful Relaxation

by | Apr 17, 2025 | Community, Culture, Events, News | 0 Comments

Florence, OR – April 17, 2025 – If you're looking for a quiet moment in a noisy world—or a creative outlet that doesn’t ask for perfection—this weekend offers the...

Elegance with a Twist Make Your Own Bridgerton-Inspired Accessories in Downtown Eugene

Elegance with a Twist: Make Your Own Bridgerton-Inspired Accessories in Downtown Eugene

by | Apr 16, 2025 | Community, Culture, Events, News | 0 Comments

Eugene, OR – April 16, 2025 – Have you ever dreamed of sipping tea with the Queen? Or walking into a soirée with a custom creation that turns every head in the...

Dark Daring and Under the Big Top Paranormal Cirque II Comes to Eugene 2025

Dark, Daring, and Under the Big Top: Paranormal Cirque II Comes to Eugene 2025

by | Apr 15, 2025 | Community, Culture, Events, News | 0 Comments

Eugene, OR – April 25–28, 2025 – Forget everything you know about traditional circus acts. This April, something strange and spectacular rolls into town. The shadows of...

Eugene Public Health Standards Workshop 2025

Have Your Say: Eugene Public Health Standards Workshop 2025

by | Apr 14, 2025 | Community, Events, News | 0 Comments

Eugene, OR – April 14, 2025 – What happens when your voice helps shape the future of your neighborhood? This Thursday, residents of Eugene will get the chance to do...

National Dance Week Comes Alive in Eugene A Celebration of Movement Culture and Community

National Dance Week Comes Alive in Eugene: A Celebration of Movement, Culture, and Community

by | Apr 13, 2025 | Community, Culture, Events, News, Uncategorized | 0 Comments

Eugene, OR – April 15, 2025 – From the streets of downtown to the mirrored studios across Lane County, Eugene is ready to move. National Dance Week kicks off this...

Belknap Hot Springs

Belknap Hot Springs

by | Apr 12, 2025 | Health, Local Attractions, Outdoors, Parks & Recreation, Water Fun, Wildlife | 0 Comments

Introduction to Belknap Hot Springs Belknap Hot Springs is a hidden gem in Oregon, located along the McKenzie River within the Willamette National Forest, known for its...

Lend a Hand Love the Land Volunteer for Hendricks Park Forest Trail Maintenance This Sunday

Lend a Hand, Love the Land: Volunteer for Hendricks Park Forest Trail Maintenance This Sunday

by | Apr 12, 2025 | Events, Community, News, Outdoors | 0 Comments

Eugene, OR – April 11, 2025 – Spring is calling, and Hendricks Park is answering—with freshly blooming trails, sun-dappled forest paths, and an open invitation to give...

Run for a Cause Bridgeway House Hosts Annual Run for Autism in Eugene

Run for a Cause: Bridgeway House Hosts Annual Run for Autism in Eugene

by | Apr 11, 2025 | Community, Events, News, Outdoors, Parks & Recreation, Uncategorized | 0 Comments

Eugene, OR – April 11, 2025 – This weekend, hundreds of feet will hit the ground running at Alton Baker Park for a reason far greater than fitness. The Bridgeway House...

Sea Lion Caves

Sea Lion Caves

by | Apr 10, 2025 | Local Attractions, Outdoors, Parks & Recreation, Wildlife | 0 Comments

Overview Sea Lion Caves Florence is a stunning natural wonder on the Oregon Coast, famous for being America’s largest sea cave and a haven for Steller sea lions....

free local advertising at thrivingoregon.com

Free Local Advertising Now Available for Lane County Businesses on Thriving Oregon

by | Apr 10, 2025 | Business, Community, Events, News, Uncategorized | 0 Comments

If you run a small business in Lane County, Oregon, there’s exciting news: you can now promote your local sales, events, and special offers for free local advertising...

Eugene Saturday Market returns for 2025

Back in Bloom: Eugene Saturday Market Returns for 2025 Season

by | Apr 10, 2025 | Community, Events, Food & Drink, Local Attractions, Markets, News, Uncategorized | 0 Comments

Eugene, OR – April 10, 2025 – The heart of Eugene’s creative spirit is back for another season! As spring awakens the Willamette Valley, the Eugene Saturday Market has...

run for a reason support-lane-county-CASA-at-the-eugene-marathon-2025

Run for a Reason: Support CASA of Lane County Through the Eugene Marathon

by | Apr 9, 2025 | Community, Events, News | 0 Comments

Eugene, OR – April 9, 2025 – Lace up your sneakers, set your pace, and make every mile matter—because this spring, your run could help change a child’s life. As part of...

Sand Master Park

Sand Master Park

by | Apr 6, 2025 | Local Attractions, Outdoors, Parks & Recreation, Sports | 0 Comments

Overview of Sand Master Park Sand Master Park is a 200-acre park in Florence, Oregon, known as the "Sandboarding Capital of the World." It offers a thrilling experience...

lane county gears up for earth day 2025

Green Lane County: Local Businesses Gear Up for Earth Day with Eco-Friendly Initiatives

by | Apr 6, 2025 | Community, Events, News | 0 Comments

Eugene, OR – April 6, 2025 – As Earth Day approaches on April 22, local businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations throughout Lane County are preparing a wide...

Kayaking Lane County

Kayaking Lane County

by | Apr 2, 2025 | Local Attractions, Outdoors, Water Fun, Wildlife | 0 Comments

Kayaking Lane County – Oregon’s Untamed Water Wonderland I’ll say it outright: if you haven’t dipped a paddle in Lane County, you haven’t truly kayaked. This isn’t your...

eugene marathon 2025,tracktown usa,hayward field,

Eugene Marathon 2025: Run in the Footsteps of Legends

by | Mar 31, 2025 | Community, Events, Sports | 0 Comments

The Eugene Marathon 2025 returns on April 27, marking its 18th year as one of the most beloved running events in the Pacific Northwest. Held in the heart of TrackTown...

Elijah Bristow Pioneering Legacy

by | Mar 27, 2025 | Culture, Heroes, History, Local Attractions, Outdoors, Parks & Recreation, Wildlife | 0 Comments

Elijah Bristow Pioneering Legacy Elijah Bristow, born April 28, 1788, in Tazewell County, Virginia, was a pioneer whose journey westward marked him as a key figure in...