McKenzie River Workgroup

Species

• Bull Trout (threatened)
• Cutthroat Trout
• Mountain Whitefish
• Pacific Lamprey (species of concern)
• Rainbow Trout
• Spring Chinook (threatened)
• Winter Steelhead

Overview

The McKenzie River, flowing from the Cascade Mountains to Eugene-Springfield, is a world-renowned fly-fishing destination celebrated for its pristine waters and diverse fisheries. It supports wild "Redside" rainbow trout, which must be released, and receives heavy stocking of hatchery rainbows - making it a top spot for anglers seeking both conservation and catchable fish. The river also hosts spring Chinook salmon and summer steelhead, with the lower section below Leaburg Dam offering the best opportunities for these anadromous species. Known for its crystal-clear, spring-fed flow and scenic beauty, the McKenzie is central to Oregon’s angling culture, with regulations emphasizing sustainability, including catch-and-release rules and artificial lures in key sections. The McKenzie is primarily served by our Emerald Empire Chapter.

Our Accomplishments

• 2000: Willamette Spring Salmon Season switched to Selective, which applied not only to the Willamette River but also its tributaries including the McKenzie, promoting sustainable harvest of hatchery spring chinook while protecting wild stocks.

Goals

Our McKenzie River Ambassador will establish our goals for the future of the McKenzie River, to be posted here.

Threats and Challenges

Our McKenzie River Ambassador will track threats and challenges to the McKenzie River, to be posted here.