Jackson County, OR – Oregon State Police are asking for the public’s help to identify suspects allegedly involved in vandalism and salmon theft at the Cole Rivers Fish Hatchery in Trail, Oregon.
According to a release from Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division, two individuals were first seen by trail camera at the hatchery on August 12, 2024, and returned on August 27, 2024, wearing motorcycle helmets. The suspects allegedly entered the stream near a fish trap around 8 p.m., attempting to spear or gaff salmon. Trail camera photos reportedly captured one suspect on a red Harley-Davidson or similar motorcycle and the second on a black sport bike, both accompanied by a black German Shepherd.
The suspects allegedly returned on July 5, 2025, at approximately 5 a.m., according to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Two masked individuals, matching the previous year’s description, were seen on trail camera approaching the outflow fish trap wearing masks and baggy clothing, again with a black German Shepherd. One allegedly waded across the river and broke the antenna off a cellular camera while the other remained on shore holding a large salmon net.
Responding fish and wildlife troopers the next day reportedly found the broken antenna and displaced camera. Personnel from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife later discovered that the fish trap’s lock had been cut, granting access to the salmon inside. The number of fish taken remains unknown.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Turn In Poachers (TIP) line at 1-800-452-7888, *OSP (*677) from a mobile phone, or email TIP@osp.oregon.gov. Refer to case #SP25-355670.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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