Get ready for an unforgettable fishing adventure at Prineville Youth Pond, located in the heart of Rimrock Park. Just a short stroll from the Crooked River, this picturesque pond is the perfect spot for kids to reel in rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and bullhead catfish. With easy access and a dedicated fishing area for youth 17 and under, young anglers will love the excellent bank access and casting dock. Don't forget the essentials: youth aged 12-17 need a $10 Annual License, while kids fish free. Safety gear and simple tackle make fishing both fun and safe. Explore more to master your catch!
Key Takeaways
- Prineville Youth Pond offers a youth-only fishing experience for ages 17 and under, stocked with trout, bass, and catfish.
- Anglers ages 12-17 require a $10 Youth Annual Combination License for fishing access.
- The pond provides excellent bank access, a casting dock, and a scenic walking path from Rimrock Park.
- Follow regulations: 2-fish per day limit, use artificial lures, and practice catch-and-release.
- Participate in ODFW Family Fishing Events for free gear, instruction, and fisheries education.
Location and Accessibility
Nestled within Rimrock Park, Prineville Youth Pond is easily accessible, making it a perfect spot for a day of fishing and relaxation. Located at 1151 S Main St, Prineville, OR, the pond is conveniently situated next to Crook County Christian School and directly across from the Crook County Fairgrounds. A scenic walking path from Rimrock Park on Main Street takes you over the picturesque Crooked River straight to this charming fishing oasis. Since 2009, the pond has provided a fishing opportunity for local kids, making it a cherished community feature. The pond, spanning about one acre, offers excellent bank access, guaranteeing you can find the perfect spot to cast your line. It's open year-round, but the best fishing occurs in the cool waters of spring and fall when rainbow trout are most active. With a restricted limit of two fish per day, anglers can focus on quality over quantity while enjoying their time at the pond. While parking specifics aren't detailed, you can assume ample space is available near Rimrock Park.
For those coming by foot, alternative routes from nearby landmarks like the school and fairgrounds make the pond even more accessible. If you're driving, use Waze for detailed directions to secure a smooth journey. Managed by Crook County Parks and Recreation since its construction in 2009, the pond is regularly stocked with trout, delighting fishing enthusiasts of all ages.
Fishing Rules and Regulations
When planning your fishing adventure at Prineville Youth Pond, understanding the fishing rules and regulations is indispensable to confirm a seamless experience. First, know that kids 11 and under fish for free, while youth aged 12 to 17 need a $10 Combined Annual License. This license covers fishing, hunting, shellfish, and even includes a Columbia River Basin Endorsement. For those with disabilities, the Oregon Disabilities Hunting and Fishing License offers free fishing access. Notably, according to the 2024 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations, Chinook jack limits remain as specified, ensuring you follow the correct guidelines for your fishing experience.
Remember, a valid Combined Angling Tag is necessary for targeting salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, and halibut, with only one tag available per year. Ensuring you have your license on hand is essential; officials can request it anytime. In addition, if you're fishing in streams within the Central Zone, you'll need to use artificial flies and lures to comply with the regulations.
As for stocking, the pond bursts with new life each spring and fall. Expect rainbow trout to be stocked in March, April, and September, while largemouth bass and bullhead catfish complete the aquatic lineup. You can keep two fish per day, be they trout or bass, but there's no limit on bullhead catfish to help balance their population.
Gear up with your bait, lures, or artificial flies, and get ready for a fun-filled day at Prineville Youth Pond!
Species to Catch
As you cast your line into the waters of Prineville Youth Pond, you'll be delighted by the variety of species waiting to be caught. The pond is primarily stocked with trout by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), making it an ideal spot for young anglers keen to reel in their first catch. These trout are regularly introduced to guarantee that the pond is brimming with opportunities for you to enjoy a successful day of fishing. Additionally, Prineville Youth Pond is one of several youth-only fishing ponds open to ages 17 and under, ensuring a dedicated and inclusive experience for young fishers.
Trout fishing here is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for young people under 17, with a clear focus on providing a memorable experience. The trout you catch must be at least 8 inches long, and you're allowed to keep up to two fish per day. This secures a sustainable fishing environment while giving you the chance to savor the thrill of the catch.
With good bank access and a casting dock, Prineville Youth Pond offers a perfect setting for casting your line and honing your fishing skills. Remember, this pond is dedicated to youth angling, making it a wonderful place to introduce young enthusiasts to the joys of fishing.
Safety and Best Practices
While the thrill of catching a variety of fish at Prineville Youth Pond is undeniable, ensuring safety and best practices is equally important for a successful outing. Start by wearing a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) if you're wading or playing in the water, and make sure children 12 and under wear PFDs at all times on a boat. Stay alert to your surroundings to prevent accidents and follow all posted safety signs and regulations. If you notice any hazards, report them to the authorities right away.
When it comes to fishing, use simple tackle and baits that are suitable for children. Teach kids how to bait hooks and cast rods safely, and guide older ones in handling fish and equipment. Encourage catch-and-release practices to help conserve fish populations, and always handle fish gently to avoid injury. The Prineville Reservoir is known for its premier all-around fishery in Central Oregon, making it an excellent place for families to experience diverse fishing opportunities.
Respect the natural environment by avoiding littering and polluting. Follow local regulations to prevent overfishing, and participate in efforts to control invasive species. Before heading out, check the weather, pack essentials like food, water, and a first aid kit, and choose a family-friendly location with good access.
Educational Opportunities
Imagine the excitement on a child's face as they learn the art of fishing at Prineville Youth Pond, where educational opportunities abound for young anglers. Here, kids can immerse themselves in the world of fishing techniques with hands-on experiences. Try still-fishing with bait beneath a bobber or on the pond's bottom—these methods are perfect for beginners and yield plenty of catches. Want to step it up? Encourage them to cast lures like spinners or artificial flies, even experimenting with fly fishing and spincasting. Simple baits like worms or PowerBait with bobbers are great for learning. In addition to the excitement at Prineville Youth Pond, families can explore the abundant fishing locations near Bend, such as Elk Lake, where brook trout, kokanee, and cutthroat trout await eager anglers.
ODFW hosts free Family Fishing Events, offering more than just fun; they're instructional too. Staff and volunteers guide kids on baiting hooks, casting, and reeling in. With rods, reels, and tackle provided, children can focus on learning and catching stocked rainbow trout.
Beyond catching fish, they gain insights into fisheries education and conservation. Kids learn why managing species like bullhead catfish is essential and how catch-and-release helps maintain balance. By exploring biodiversity and seasonal strategies, they build a foundation for appreciating and conserving aquatic ecosystems while nurturing a lifelong passion for fishing.
Licensing and Facilities
Fishing at Prineville Youth Pond offers a unique experience, but you need to be aware of the licensing requirements and facilities to make the most of your visit. If you're bringing young anglers aged 12 to 17, they'll need the Youth Annual Combination License, which is a steal at just $10. This license covers fishing, hunting, shellfish, and the Columbia River Basin Endorsement. Remember, fishing here is exclusively for youth 17 and under, with the exception of disabled adults holding a state-issued permit. Fortunately, the pond doesn't require additional tags since it's not stocked with salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, or halibut. It's important to note that the Youth Annual Combination License helps fund conservation efforts and fishery management, ensuring sustainable fishing experiences for future generations.
On the facilities side, Prineville Youth Pond is conveniently located next to Crook County Christian School, with access via a scenic walking path from Rimrock Park on Main Street. This path provides excellent bank access over the Crooked River. Spanning about an acre, the pond is stocked with rainbow trout in spring and fall, drawing families for both fishing and educational events hosted by ODFW. You'll find largemouth bass and bullhead catfish here too, with the best bass fishing during the warmer months. For those interested in further exploring the waters, a Waterway Access Permit for nonmotorized boats is available, allowing for a more immersive experience. Enjoy a fun day at the pond with the entire family!
