Oregon’s Best Kept Fishing Secrets: Rivers, Lakes, and Streams

As the early morning fog lifts off the Pacific Northwest landscape, there are few places as breathtakingly beautiful as the state of Oregon. Its tranquil rivers, shimmering lakes, and gurgling streams are home to a diverse range of fish species, making it a paradise for anglers. Let’s reel in some of the best-kept fishing secrets in Oregon.

1. North Umpqua River

Serving as the adrenaline hub for adventurous anglers, the North Umpqua River is known for its summer steelhead. It’s a challenging river that often rewards the skilled with a good catch. Just past the town of Glide, Whistler’s Bend Park makes an excellent base for your fishing expeditions.

2. East Lake

Hidden within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, East Lake is an angler’s delight with brown trout, rainbow trout, and kokanee running wild. Don’t forget to stop by Paulina Peak Tackle convenience store to stock up on fishing gear.

3. Metolius River

Wild and free, the Metolius River is a fly fishing haven flowing through the Deschutes National Forest. The nearby town of Camp Sherman is full of fishing lore and friendly locals willing to share stories and tips around the infamous green drake hatches.

4. Chewaucan River

Running past cow pastures and quaking aspen stands, the Chewaucan River is quietly one of the best places for catching redband trout. If you’re planning an overnight stay, consider setting up camp at the Marster Spring campground.

5. Klamath Lake

Klamath Lake, near the town of Klamath Falls, is home to colossal redband and lost river suckers that make the reel scream with delight. Why not make a weekend of it, and stay at the Rocky Point Resort?

6. Grande Ronde River

Tucked away in northeastern Oregon, Grande Ronde River is the go-to place for catching steelhead. Start your fishing journey from Minam State Recreation Area, where raft and boat rentals are readily available.

7. Diamond Lake

Diamond Lake, near Crater Lake National Park, offers excellent opportunities to fish for rainbow trout. It even hosts several annual fishing derbies. Local eating joint, Diamond Lake Resort, serves meals as satisfying as the day’s catches.

8. Wilson River

The Wilson River, especially the stretch around Tillamook Forest Center, is great for winter steelhead fishing. Stop by Tillamook Bait Shop for advice on seasonal fishing strategies.

9. Williamson River

Located in the upper Klamath Basin, the Williamson River is one of the top producer of trophy native redband trout. The Lonesome Duck Ranch offers top-notch lodging and fishing guides for navigating this complex fishery.

10. Three Rivers

South of Tillamook, Three Rivers, as its name suggests, is an amalgamation of the Little North Fork, Big North Fork, and the main stem, which are all known for their winter steelhead run. Consider making Sandlake Country Inn your home base for your angling adventures.

As the sun sets on another gorgeous Oregon day, it’s easy to understand why so many fish and people alike call this state home. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a newcomer with a rod, Oregon’s waterways offer not just an array of fish species to catch, but also an immersion into the magic that makes this state so special. Don’t just take this local’s word for it – cast a line and reel in your own Oregon fish story.