SteveGilk Loc: OR

I’ve lived in Oregon for 66 years and in Central Oregon for four years. I fished for trout, steelhead, salmon and large-mouth bass prior to moving to Central Oregon. I am primarily interested in fishing information related to Central Oregon at this point.

Papabear65 Loc: Salem oregon

I really don't know much about Central Oregon but just wanted to say welcome to the forum

finley1 Loc: beaverton oregon

Hello, Steve, and welcome! I don't know where you are in central Oregon, but central Oregon is a MECCA FOR FISHING OPPERTUNITIES in our great state. If you're into fly fishing, the Crooked River and the Upper Deschutes River are prime locations. And, there are so many lakes and reservoirs with reputations for excellent fishing, it could take a lifetime to explore them all. Just about all of these places are within an hour of Bend.....Crane Prairle, Wickiup Reservoir (when the water is at a good level), North and South Twin Lakes, Odell Lake, Cresent Lake (when the water is at a good level), East and Paulina Lakes, Big and Little Lava Lakes, Davis Lake (primarily bass and fly fishing only).
The list is almost endless, and I've only listed a few of the best. I would suggest googling some of these places to find out different details about things like what time of year fishing is decent (usually spring and fall are better because of cooler weather), what the fish are hitting on at a particular time, and water levels in the paticular areas you're more interested in. I'm pretty sure you already know all this, so I hope I'm not wasting your time. Bare in mind that the Water Reclamation Bureau likes to play around with the water levels in the main rivers and reservoirs in the area to keep the farmers in the area happy. It's always an ongoing battle but it's been pretty tough with the last few years of drought in the area. Also, don't forget to really study your FISHING REGULATIONS for the Central Oregon area. Just about every body of water has some rule or regulation that's different from the next. And the ODFW rule enforcers take their jobs very seriously! Don't get caught not knowing the rules. The regulations are free and available at just about all the area tackle shops and retailers like Fred Meyers, Bimart, or pretty much any place that sells tackle. Also, I have more than once googled a site called "Best Fishing in America" for a place or two I've wanted to try, and have found it to be pretty helpful sometimes. Remember, Steve, you are now a resident of one of the best fishing areas anywhere, so make a friend with one of the locals, really study and learn about the area, help take care of it, and above all have fun with it. Some of the most fun you can have now is in the research! Good luck and tight lines!

SteveGilk Loc: OR

Thanks Finley 1. I’m in Redmond Oregon and I appreciate you taking the time to respond and share your valuable information. I have to admit my pride has taken a bit of a beating but I am learning from experience and tips I get from the locals who regularly fish the different locations I’ve tried. The natural beauty of this area makes for extremely enjoyable fishing even if I don’t catch as many fish as I would like. You’re right about the drought hitting this area hard and I also hear what you’re saying about the importance of maintaining this valuable resources we have in Central Oregon. Thanks again!

SteveGilk Loc: OR

Thanks!

Uncle Joe Loc: Oregon

finley1 has pretty much hit them all. But here's a couple to add Prineville Res. and Ochoco Res. good luck.

SteveGilk Loc: OR

Thanks Uncle Joe. I have been to Prineville and Ochoco Res. a couple of times this year. Both were good earlier this season but are tapering off some now. Prineville is pretty full of junk on the State Park side and not producing fish well at all. The Dam side is much better. Thanks for contacting me!

Whateverbites Loc: Bend, OR

Hi Steve, our go-to is East Lake or Paulina Lake. We typically fish in the summer and the elevation keeps us and the fish cooler! Welcome to CO!

SteveGilk Loc: OR

Thanks Whateverbites. Care to share what kind of rigging/bate you use? I appreciate the contact!

Uncle Joe Loc: Oregon

Glad to. My boy were there in late June and all though debris was nasty we worked out kayaks from Jasper point down to the resort. Produced quite a few small bass working that shoreline.
Now my daughter and her husband were up on Crane Prairie and she was catching of all things bluegills. Who the hell!

finley1 Loc: beaverton oregon

Bluegill? Well now, that is strange! There's already illegally introduced bass. What's next--snapping turtles? Allegator Gar? Well, so much for the premier trout fishery it used to be. It really is a shame.....

SteveGilk Loc: OR

People just can’t leave things alone. My father-in-law and others have also been catching bluegills in the Deschutes arm of Billy Chinook. Really weird.

Manuel Garcia Loc: Bend, Oregon

Steve, welcome to fishing paradise. I moved from Portland 20 years ago, this is the most productive and fun place to live as a fisherman. Yes the previous information is all accurate, one place I want you to keep in mind is lake Billy Chinook. It is my go place all year araund. The winter when all other lakes are not accesible, Billy is there with a variety of fish… bull trout up to 30+ inches, trout, brown trout , kokes, bass
Just wanted to let you know, also I am looking for partner to go out, too old to go alone… welcome to paradise.

OregonBob Loc: Oregon

good reply; good information

Uncle Joe Loc: Oregon

Sad.