I've never fished Potholes Reservoir: As the title says, "I've never fished the Pothole reservoir" and I would like some recommendations. I plan on going fishing for day in late...

dbeals Loc: Prosser, Washington

As the title says, "I've never fished the Pothole reservoir" and I would like some recommendations. I plan on going fishing for day in late October or early November for a relaxing day on the boat. I'm not particular in the species of fish I catch just want to enjoy the day. The questions that I have are- Which species of fish would be best to target, which boat dock should I use, what depth should I locate the fish, and type of bait/lures should I try. Thanks for the advice and a new member

DC Loc: Washington state

the state
park boat ramp is the one I like, it has a dock and good fish cleaning station. if you go just north you will be in all the islands. if you troll across the lake infront of the dunes mornings and evenings with a worm harness or plug you can catch walleye, around the dunes in the brush areas I've caught bass and some really nice size bluegill along the far side of the lake heading south I've caught some really nice trout in the 20-22" range but that was more in the spring. as you come to the lake just past the dam is Mardon resort. they have a tackle shop if you need anything. lots of places to explore and fish in and around the dunes and lots of wildlife to watch. have fun and post some pictures when you get back
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dbeals Loc: Prosser, Washington

Thank you for the tips

denden Loc: Yakima, Washington

Thanks for the heads up 🙂

GLA Loc: WA State

I think DC nailed it in his answer. Trout, panfish (Perch, bluegill, crappie), Walleye and Catfish along with other species are found in Potholes reservoir. Might consider trolling a #5 Flicker Shad in Fire Tiger or Perch patterns around the Dunes area (just North of the State Park launch) that time of year. Walleye bite can be very good and they are a fish to keep as they are great tasting fish. Also bring along some Panfish magnets for when you get into a school of perch or crappie. If you get a chance, swing by the MarDon bait shop. Those folks are very knowledgeable about what's going on in the lake as well as the many surrounding smaller lakes. They'll steer you into what the fish are biting. Good Luck!

GLA Loc: WA State

I think DC nailed it in his answer. Trout, panfish (Perch, bluegill, crappie), Walleye and Catfish along with other species are found in Potholes reservoir. Might consider trolling a #5 Flicker Shad in Fire Tiger or Perch patterns around the Dunes area (just North of the State Park launch) that time of year. Walleye bite can be very good and they are a fish to keep as they are great tasting fish. Also bring along some Panfish magnets for when you get into a school of perch or crappie. If you get a chance, swing by the MarDon bait shop. Those folks are very knowledgeable about what's going on in the lake as well as the many surrounding smaller lakes. They'll steer you into what the fish are biting. Good Luck!

DC Loc: Washington state

just one word for the wise. keep an eye on your depth finder it can go from 30' to 1' real fast with sand duns just below the water leaving the unsuspecting around

Dakoda Loc: Cle Elum, WA

BiMart in Ellensburg has the tackle you need, plus worms for your bait hooks. Those Walleye are at about 20’ this time of year. The maglip lure is more for salmon, but I’ve caught Walleye on them. Consider getting a walleye bandit deep diver plug, in the colors mentioned above, or silver with orange.

dbeals Loc: Prosser, Washington

Thank you. I appreciate your help in making my experience at the Potholes an easier experience.

dbeals Loc: Prosser, Washington

Great advice

maxammo Loc: Wa

One more safety statement
That reservoir has big waves so respect it.
Over the years I’ve seen swamped boats and found dead fishermen.
True fish producing lake for many years but if windy, many small seep lakes below the dam to wet a line- some w launches also-
Rip Lip!

DC Loc: Washington state

maxammo wrote:

One more safety statement
That reservoir has big waves so respect it.
Over the years I’ve seen swamped boats and found dead fishermen.
True fish producing lake for many years but if windy, many small seep lakes below the dam to wet a line- some w launches also-
Rip Lip!

yes it can get windy I've been blown off the lake several times and had to use a drift sock because of wind at times but most times I've been able to get on the lake and fish so have fun but be safe

dbeals Loc: Prosser, Washington

Thanks for that information

dbeals Loc: Prosser, Washington

Thanks for the information That's good to know

Steelyonfly Loc: Western WA

Try the southeast side of the big Island near the dam. Fish with dark colored jigs for bass in about 25 ft of water.