Oregon boasts some prime catfish fishing spots you can't afford to miss. Head to the Columbia River near McNary Pool for plentiful channel catfish; try using fresh bait in slack waters below dams. The John Day Arm offers fantastic catches during late spring through fall, with Le Page and Albert Philippi Parks providing easy access. At Brownlee Reservoir, explore the upper areas near Farewell Bend for channel catfish over 20 pounds using worms or cut fish as bait. Owyhee Reservoir's upper sections promise quality catches, especially around Leslie Gulch. There's more to discover if you explore further into Oregon's waters.
Key Takeaways
- Columbia River below dams is ideal for catfishing, especially near McNary Pool for abundant channel catfish.
- John Day Arm offers excellent smallmouth bass and catfish fishing, best in late spring to early fall.
- Brownlee Reservoir on Snake River is renowned for large channel catfish, especially near Farewell Bend and Steck parks.
- Snake River above Brownlee Reservoir is a top spot for channel and flathead catfish, with simple gear setups recommended.
- Owyhee Reservoir's upper section from Doe Island offers prime catfishing using natural baits like worms and prawns.
Columbia River Catfish
When it comes to catfish fishing in the Columbia River, the best locations offer anglers a mix of strategic spots and local insights. Below the dams, you'll find prime conditions where slackening waters settle food particles, attracting catfish. The McNary Pool near Boardman is another hotspot known for its abundant channel catfish populations. Exploring the Oregon side along Snake River Road can also yield excellent catches, as these spots are favored by locals. The McNary Pool near Boardman is an emerging catfish fishery, with anglers reporting good numbers of channel catfish, making it a must-visit for catfishing enthusiasts.
Focus on the upper sections of the river, from Bonneville Dam to John Day Dam, which are teeming with catfish and other species. Look for areas with structural variations like channels and shorelines, as these often harbor catfish concentrations. The Columbia River is also known for supporting fisheries for sturgeon, salmon, steelhead, walleye, and shad, which adds diversity to the angling experience. Timing is essential; late spring and early fall are ideal seasons, but don't overlook night fishing in summer for spectacular results.
Use fresh bait in slackening water to entice the fish, but skip trolling—static or drifting techniques work better. Stay informed about seasonal food sources like smolts to improve your chances. Remember to check fishing regulations, as Oregon permits are required and catch limits apply to safeguard a sustainable and enjoyable fishing experience.
John Day Arm
The John Day Arm, a prominent feature of the Columbia River, offers a prime fishing experience, especially for catfish enthusiasts. This area is formed by the river backing up into the lower John Day River due to the John Day Dam. You've got several access points, with Le Page Park providing some bank access at the mouth and Albert Philippi Park offering boat-in camping a few miles upstream. If you're boating from the main John Day Reservoir, you'll find plenty of opportunities to explore. The John Day River, renowned for its smallmouth bass fisheries, also has an abundance of catfish, making it a versatile location for fishing enthusiasts. It's important to note that the Northeast Zone regulations include specific rules for different sections of the John Day River, so be sure to check them before you fish.
For catfish, timing is key. Late spring through early fall is your best bet, with summer nights being particularly rewarding. Here are three tips to enhance your fishing experience:
- Bait: Use strong-smelling baits; they work wonders for attracting catfish.
- Gear: Opt for light or medium tackle and a 4- to 8-pound test line for bottom fishing.
- Techniques: Slip-sinkers and leaders help your bait feel natural, enticing catfish to bite.
Brownlee Reservoir
After exploring the vibrant fishing opportunities at the John Day Arm, head to Brownlee Reservoir for another exciting catfish adventure. Nestled on the Snake River, this massive reservoir spans 57 miles and offers unparalleled fishing experiences at the Oregon-Idaho border. Known for its warm water fishing, Brownlee is a hotspot for anglers seeking a variety of fish, including plentiful catfish. Channel catfish in Brownlee Reservoir can grow to over 20 pounds, providing anglers with the chance to catch great-eating fish as well as larger trophy specimens.
Focus your efforts in the upper reservoir near Farewell Bend and Steck parks, where catfish thrive. For the best results, plan your trip between late spring and early fall when catfish are most active. Nighttime fishing during summer can be particularly rewarding. Use baits like worms, nightcrawlers, raw prawns, or cut fresh fish, and employ techniques such as fishing under a float or using bait-holder and circle hooks. Anglers have also been catching bass and catfish while trolling for kokanee, making Brownlee Reservoir a versatile fishing destination.
Access Brownlee Reservoir year-round, but keep in mind fluctuating water levels that may affect boat ramps. Camping facilities at Woodhead Park and Farewell Bend State Park offer convenient lodging options. Stay informed by contacting Idaho Power Company for reservoir levels and check the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife website for regulations. Update the MyODFW app for the latest fishing information.
Snake River Highlights
For catfish enthusiasts, the Snake River offers a treasure trove of opportunities just waiting to be explored. The section above Brownlee Reservoir is a top spot, boasting the same robust catfish population as the reservoir itself. However, be prepared for limited bank access due to private property. Night fishing during summer is highly recommended here for the best results, mirroring techniques used at Brownlee. Conservation efforts along the Snake River, such as catch-and-release policies, help maintain healthy fish populations and ensure future generations can enjoy the sport.
When targeting Snake River catfish, you'll encounter both channel and flathead varieties. Channels are more abundant, with an estimated population exceeding a million. Notably, the Snake River catfish population is so dense that there are a couple of thousand catfish per mile between Swan Falls Dam and Brownlee Reservoir. Here's what to expect:
- Size: Channel catfish typically weigh between 4-6 pounds, but plenty surpass 10 pounds.
- Season: Late spring through early fall is prime time.
- Tributaries: The Weiser, Payette, and Boise Rivers also harbor these fish.
To maximize success, opt for a simple gear setup with large bait hooks, swivels, and pyramid weights. A sliding sinker rig helps reduce lost tackle. Fresh bait is key, and using float rigs in summer can prevent snagging in thick weeds. Focus on slow-moving, shallow waters, especially when the river's turbid. Keep in mind that caught catfish release pheromones, potentially alerting others.
Owyhee Reservoir Spots
Nestled in Oregon's southeastern landscape, Owyhee Reservoir offers some of the best catfish fishing spots you'll find. Head to the Upper Reservoir, particularly the stretch from Doe Island to the Owyhee River's entry point, where catfish are most abundant. Check out Leslie Gulch and the Hot Springs for prime fishing action. Though remote access requires a longer boat ride or drive, the journey is worth it for dedicated anglers. The Owyhee River below the dam is one of Oregon's best fly fishing rivers, holding large brown trout and stocked rainbow trout.
Equip yourself with medium-weight rods, sliding sinkers, and bait holder hooks. Natural baits like worms, nightcrawlers, cut-up fish, prawns, and prepared baits work wonders here. Focus on still-fishing rigs around submerged weeds, brush, and rock structures. Target varying depths, especially near the bottom, for the best results.
In addition to its catfish, the 53-mile long reservoir is also home to a variety of warmwater fish, making it a diverse fishing destination. Plan your trip in spring and early summer when the catfish are biting, and aim for early mornings or late evenings. Before setting off, always check water levels and boat ramp accessibility since fluctuations can affect fishing success. Utilize the reservoir's five boat ramps, especially those at Lake Owyhee State Park, and confirm you're familiar with local regulations by consulting the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife. Safety first: watch for rugged terrain and changing water levels.
Regional Fishing Hotspots
Oregon frequently boasts some of the most diverse catfish fishing hotspots across its regions, offering something for every angler. If you're exploring Central Oregon, the Columbia River is a prime choice, especially below the dams where the slack water attracts large populations of channel catfish. For a more rugged experience, the John Day River near the narrows and below the falls is excellent for channel catfish. In Eastern Oregon, Brownlee Reservoir stands out with its upper part near Farewell Bend State Park being exceptionally productive, particularly around the Powder River Arm. The Columbia River near Rufus is also abundant with other fish species, including walleye, which are a notable draw for fishermen. Oregon is known for its year-round crabbing opportunities, which can be an exciting addition to your fishing adventure.
Western Oregon offers its own treasures. The St. Louis Ponds, a complex of several ponds, are regularly stocked with channel catfish. The most accessible are:
- Pond 1: Known for its easy access and consistent catches.
- Pond 3: Offers a serene setting with abundant catfish.
- Pond 6: A hidden gem for those looking for less crowded spots.
Additionally, don't miss the McNary Pool near Boardman, which is a top location for channel catfish. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, these regional hotspots promise memorable fishing experiences across Oregon.
Catfish Fishing Techniques
Having explored Oregon's top catfish hotspots, it's time to gear up with the right techniques for a successful fishing trip. Start with drift fishing, perfect for targeting flatheads and blue catfish in river bends. Set up your line with 1 to 2 lead shots, about 6 to 12 inches above the hook, and use fresh cut baits like sardines or mackerel. The technique involves drifting your bait alongside the current, particularly effective in shallow flats. Flathead catfish, native to the Mississippi, Missouri, and Ohio River basins, are known to prefer stronger currents, making drift fishing particularly effective. Since catfish are almost always hungry, it's a good idea to have a variety of baits on hand to increase your chances of success.
For still fishing, the egg sinker slip rig is your go-to. It allows the bait to stay near the bottom, an ideal position for catfish. Set multiple rods with light drag and be patient, especially during night fishing, which catfish find irresistible. Experiment by casting baits at various lengths to locate the most productive spots.
Equip yourself with bait-casting reels for their reliable drag and precision. Strong rods with good backbone are essential for handling large blue catfish. Choose circle hooks for live bait and catch-and-release practices. Use a 20- to 30-pound test line, either mono or braid, to guarantee success. Finally, consider additional techniques like paternoster rigs and slipfloat rigs for versatility in your approach.
