Sandy River Workgroup

Overview

The Sandy River is a pristine and productive wild fish stronghold, flowing 56 miles from Mount Hood’s glaciers through steep canyons and lush forests to join the Columbia near Troutdale. Renowned for its robust runs of wild winter steelhead, spring and fall Chinook, and summer steelhead, the river draws dedicated anglers to its boulder-strewn runs, deep pools, and fly-water glides from Cedar Creek to the mouth. The 2007 removal of Marmot Dam, championed by ANWS, opened seven miles of prime upper-river habitat and restored natural sediment flow and spawning grounds while enhancing selective harvest opportunities. From winter bank fishing at Oxbow Park to summer drift-boat floats through the gorge, the Sandy sustains a passionate steelhead culture and vital ESA-listed salmon recovery, its clear waters and scenic beauty anchoring Oregon’s angling heritage. The Sandy River is served primarily by our Sandy River Chapter.

Our Accomplishments

• 1999: Steelheaders signed the Marmot Dam Removal Agreement.
• 2007: Helped open 7 miles of Sandy River above the old Marmot Dam site for selective harvest.