Coquille Tribe and Oregon Restored Salmon Runs

The tribe and state partnered to revive Chinook salmon populations in the Coquille River after 2018.

Updated on Oct. 4, 2026 in Fishing

Screen-print poster illustration of a salmon leaping from a river, evoking the natural restoration of Oregon waterways. — The Coquille Indian Tribe and Oregon officials have launched a joint program to restore declining Chinook salmon populations in the Coquille River. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Coquille Indian Tribe and the State of Oregon have implemented a co-management strategy to restore declining Chinook salmon runs. Efforts include removing invasive predators and launching a specialized hatchery program to bolster salmon returns.

Why it matters

Restoration efforts address the sharp population crash observed in Oregon coastal rivers since 2018. The program tackles environmental stressors like high river temperatures and invasive smallmouth bass that prey on juvenile fish.

In 1970, Coos Bay accounted for over 50% of Oregon's total salmon landings. The current restoration initiative covers a 5-county region through a formal co-management agreement.

The players

Coquille Indian Tribe

This federally recognized tribe is based in Oregon and has taken a lead role in local natural resource management.

State of Oregon

The state government provides oversight and management for fish and wildlife conservation programs.

Bandon Hatchery

This facility is utilized for the spawning of salmon for the restoration project.

Cole Rivers Hatchery

This hatchery is used to raise smolts before they are moved to the Coquille River system.

The details

Tribal fisheries workers use the Bandon and Cole Rivers hatcheries to spawn and raise salmon, which are then acclimated at Ferry Creek. This process aims to counter low river flows and warming temperatures by ensuring juveniles reach the ocean successfully.

1970: Coos Bay handled half of Oregon's salmon landings.
2018: Salmon returns in many coastal rivers crashed.
2022: Tribe and state signed co-management agreement.
2026: Expected return of four-year rotation of released salmon.

Culture Shift

This follows the model set by the 2022 Coquille Indian Tribe and State of Oregon co-management agreement, marking a collaborative approach to regional fisheries recovery. The shift signals a move toward tribal-led conservation in traditional territories.

Rebuilding these salmon runs may eventually restore traditional fishing opportunities for the local community. Residents can monitor progress as the tribe continues to collect and release smolts into the river.

The takeaway

The successful recovery of the Coquille River salmon population depends on sustained predator control and habitat management. Local residents and anglers can support these efforts by respecting seasonal closures and monitoring updates from tribal authorities.