Catch You Some Trout in Freshwater Lakes & Rivers in Oregon: A Total & Complete Guide!

Catch You Some Trout in Freshwater Lakes & Rivers in Oregon: A Total & Complete Guide!

Oregon has some of the best freshwater fishing in the United States. With its vast network of lakes, rivers, and streams, the state is home to a variety of trout species, including rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, brown trout, brook trout, and the prized bull trout. 

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about catching trout in Oregon’s freshwater lakes and rivers, including the best locations, fishing techniques, bait and tackle recommendations, and tips for a successful fishing trip.

Types of Trout Found in Oregon

Oregon is home to several trout species, each offering a unique challenge to anglers.

1. Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) are the most common trout species in Oregon, thanks to widespread stocking by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW). These fish are known for their acrobatics and aggressive strikes, making them a favorite with anglers.

2. Cutthroat Trout

Oregon has both coastal cutthroat trout and westslope cutthroat trout. Coastal cutthroat trout can be found in rivers and streams along the Pacific coast, while westslope cutthroats are native to eastern Oregon. They are known for their aggressive feeding habits and striking red-orange slashes under their jaws.

3. Brown Trout

Originally introduced from Europe, brown trout (Salmo trutta) are now found in select lakes and rivers throughout the state. They are often more challenging to catch due to their wariness and preference for deep water. Brown trout grow to impressive sizes, making them a prized catch!.

4. Brook Trout

Brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) are commonly found in high-mountain lakes and cold, clear streams. They are not true trout but rather members of the char family. These beautiful fish are relatively easy to catch and are known for their vibrant colors and willingness to strike at artificial lures and flies.

5. Bull Trout

Bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) are a native, protected species found in certain rivers in central and eastern Oregon. Because they are listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act, anglers must release them immediately if caught.

Some of the Best Locations for Trout Fishing in Oregon

Oregon is rich with prime fishing spots, ranging from large lakes to small mountain streams. Here are some of our favorite places to catch trout in Oregon:

Top Lakes for Trout Fishing

1. Diamond Lake (Southern Oregon)

• One of the best trout fisheries in Oregon, stocked heavily with rainbow trout.
• Offers excellent fishing year-round, with ice fishing opportunities in winter.

2. Wallowa Lake (Northeastern Oregon)

• Known for its trophy-sized kokanee salmon, but also home to large rainbow and lake trout.
• Deep, cold water makes it a great summer fishing destination.

3. East Lake & Paulina Lake (Central Oregon - Newberry Crater)

• Known for brown trout, kokanee, and rainbow trout.
• Fly fishing and trolling are effective techniques here.

4. Timothy Lake (Mt. Hood National Forest)

• Stocked with rainbow trout and also has wild cutthroat trout.
• Popular for bank fishing, trolling, and fly fishing.

5. Crane Prairie Reservoir (Central Oregon)

• Famous for its massive “cranebows” (large rainbow trout).
• Best fished with flies, spinners, or bait under a bobber.

Top Rivers for Trout Fishing

1. Deschutes River (Central Oregon)

• Home to wild “redside” rainbow trout, known for their strength.
• A world-class fly fishing river, particularly during the salmonfly hatch in late spring.

2. McKenzie River (Willamette Valley)

• Offers a mix of wild and stocked rainbow trout, along with native cutthroats.
• Drifting with dry flies or nymphs works well here.

3. Rogue River (Southern Oregon)

• A legendary fishing river for steelhead and trout.
• Fly fishing and spinning gear both work well, especially in the upper section.

4. Metolius River (Central Oregon)

• A spring-fed river with crystal-clear water and a challenging trout fishery.
• Home to bull trout and wild rainbow trout.

5. Umpqua River (Southwestern Oregon)

• Offers excellent fishing for cutthroat and rainbow trout.
• Best fished with flies, spinners, or nightcrawlers.

Best Techniques for Catching Trout

Depending on where and when you’re fishing, different methods will be more effective. Here are some of the most proven trout fishing techniques:

1. Bait Fishing

• Ideal for beginners and highly effective in stocked lakes.
• Best baits:
  
  • PowerBait (works well for stocked rainbow trout).
  • Nightcrawlers (a universal trout bait).
  • Salmon eggs (effective in rivers and streams).
  • Corn (works for hatchery-raised trout).

2. Fly Fishing

• Best suited for rivers and streams, but also effective in lakes.
• Best flies:
  
  • Dry Flies – Elk Hair Caddis, Parachute Adams.
  • Nymphs – Pheasant Tail, Hare’s Ear.
  • Streamers – Woolly Bugger, Muddler Minnow.

3. Spinning & Lure Fishing

• A great option for covering water and targeting aggressive fish.
• Best lures:
  
  • Spinners – Rooster Tail, Panther Martin, Mepps.
  • Spoons – Kastmaster, Little Cleo.
  • Crankbaits – Rapala Countdowns.

4. Trolling (Best for Lakes)

• Works well for larger lakes like Wallowa and Diamond Lake.
• Best setups:
  
  • Small spoons or spinners behind a dodger.
  • Wedding Ring spinner with a nightcrawler.
  • Downriggers for deeper summer fishing.

Tips for a Success

1. Time of Day Matters – Early morning and late evening are the best times to fish for trout, as they are more active in low-light conditions.
2. Match the Hatch – If fly fishing, observe what insects are hatching and use similar patterns.
3. Use Light Line – Trout have excellent vision, so use 4-6 lb test fluorocarbon or monofilament for the best results.
4. Keep It Moving – If fishing in a river, cast upstream and let your lure or bait drift naturally.
5. Practice Catch & Release – Many of Oregon’s rivers contain native trout populations that should be released to maintain healthy fisheries.

Oregon offers some of the best freshwater trout fishing in the country, with a plethora of lakes and rivers with year-round opportunities. With the right gear, techniques, and knowledge of where to go, you’re sure to have a successful fishing adventure in Oregon.

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