Eld Inlet is the least developed and consequently most intact watershed in WRIA 13. Although the western shore of the inlet is actually in WRIA 14, all of the eastern shore and the two main sub-basins, McLane and Green Cove, are within the WRIA 13 boundary. There are 30 miles of shoreline in the inlet and a total stream length of 47 miles.

This narrow inlet features several small coves along its shorelines with rural residential development along much of its length. The high bluffs at its outlet are in contrast to the low flat estuarine area of Mud Bay at its head. Residential and agricultural land uses are most common in the upper watershed, and the streams running through them are in private ownership.

Eld Inlet hosts a strong chum run, a weak coho run, and limited numbers of chinook.

Description from the Salmon Habitat Protection and Restoration Plan for Water Resource Inventory Area 13, Deschutes. For more information see the previously stated document or the Salmon Habitat Limiting Factors Final Report Water Resource Inventory Area 13.