What kinds of fish are found in the Nehalem River?
The Nehalem River is home to a variety of fish species. Some of the fish that can be found in the Nehalem River include:
Chinook Salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha): Chinook salmon are anadromous fish that migrate from the ocean to freshwater rivers and streams to spawn. The Nehalem River provides important spawning habitat for these salmon.
Coho Salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch): Similar to Chinook salmon, Coho salmon also migrate from the ocean to freshwater rivers for spawning. The Nehalem River is another vital habitat for this species.
Steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss): Steelhead are a type of rainbow trout that are anadromous, migrating from the ocean to freshwater for spawning. The Nehalem River supports steelhead populations as well.
Cutthroat Trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii): Coastal cutthroat trout are native to the Pacific Northwest and can also be found in the Nehalem River and its tributaries.
Chum Salmon (Oncorhynchus keta): Chum salmon, also known as dog salmon, are another species that can be found in the Nehalem River. They are known for their distinctive spawning behavior.
Coastal Rainbow Trout: Native rainbow trout populations are present in many Oregon rivers, including the Nehalem.
Coastal Cutthroat Trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii clarkii): This subspecies of cutthroat trout is specifically adapted to the coastal environments of the Pacific Northwest, including the Nehalem River.
Keep in mind that fish populations can vary due to factors such as seasonal changes, habitat quality, water temperature, and human activities. It's always a good idea to check with local fish and wildlife authorities for the most up-to-date information on fish species present in the Nehalem River.