Fishing at Dexter Reservoir, just 19 miles east of Eugene, offers an angler's paradise with varied fish and prime spots. Start at Dexter State Recreation Site near the dam for easy boat access, or try bank fishing around the covered bridge. Stocked with rainbow trout in spring and fall, you'll also find bass near rocky covers and walleye likely from Lookout Point Reservoir. For trout, use sliding sinker rigs with PowerBait; for bass, try lures mimicking perch and crayfish. Spring and fall are ideal for trout, while summer favors bass. Equipped with these tips, there's more to explore about Dexter's bounty.
Key Takeaways
- Bank fishing is popular at the covered bridge and south side flat areas.
- Spring is ideal for stocked rainbow trout and bass fishing as they move to spawn.
- Use spinners, PowerBait, and sliding sinker rigs to effectively catch trout.
- Dexter State Recreation Site offers a boat ramp and picnic facilities.
- Always follow boating regulations and practice catch-and-release for conservation.
Location and Access Points
Nestled along the Middle Fork Willamette River, Dexter Reservoir is a prime fishing destination just 19 miles east of Eugene. This reservoir, formed by Dexter Dam, is accessible year-round, offering diverse entry points for anglers. You can start at Dexter State Recreation Site near the dam, where a boat ramp and paddling access make it easy to launch your fishing adventure. For a more leisurely experience, Lowell State Recreation Site provides not only a boat ramp but also picnic areas and swimming facilities. Bank fishing enthusiasts will find several strategic spots. The covered bridge crossing the reservoir is a favorite for trout fishing. Additionally, flat areas along the south side are perfect for setting up a bank fishing spot. The reservoir is stocked with rainbow trout from late February through late April, and again in the fall, providing excellent opportunities to catch these fish. If you're seeking solitude, the north shore's Middle Fork Arm tends to be less crowded.
Access is straightforward via Highway 58, ensuring you're never far from a good fishing location. Facilities enhance the experience, with amenities like picnic areas and walking trails inviting you to enjoy more than just fishing. Whether by boat or from the shore, Dexter Reservoir offers various ways to enjoy its serene waters. The paddling year-round opportunity is an added bonus for those who enjoy water recreation activities beyond fishing.
Popular Fish Species
When it comes to angling at Dexter Reservoir, it offers a diverse array of popular fish species that can make your fishing trip rewarding. If you're targeting rainbow trout, head to the fishing platforms north of the covered bridge or near the artificial narrows. These spots are prime for bank fishing. Use a sliding sinker with PowerBait or natural bait for still-fishing, or try casting lures like spinners and spoons for more action.
Bass enthusiasts will find both smallmouth and largemouth bass in the reservoir. Smallmouth bass prefer rocky covers along the dam and near the fishing access at the covered bridge. Largemouth bass can be found in similar areas but might roam other parts of the lake. Spring is ideal for using lures that imitate perch, crayfish, and minnows, while plastic worms, grubs, and jigs work all year. With the resumption of stocking in spring 2025, anglers can expect improved fishing opportunities for warmwater game fish.
Though walleye aren't as common, they might be present due to introductions from Lookout Point Reservoir. Most great walleye fisheries are found in larger bodies of water, which makes it notable that some anglers are starting to report catches of this species in Dexter Reservoir. Northern pikeminnows are plentiful and often considered a nuisance, with an annual derby encouraging their removal. Don't overlook yellow perch and bluegills in coves, or crappies in warm, vegetated areas for a rounded fishing experience.
Best Seasons to Fish
Dexter Reservoir's variety of fish species offers anglers a rewarding experience, but knowing the best seasons to fish enhances your success. In spring, from February to April, stocked rainbow trout bite hungrily due to frequent stockings. Early spring invites larger bass to shallow waters for spawning, making it prime time for bass fishing from March to May. You'll find trout fishing particularly fruitful near the covered bridge, while smallmouth bass prefer the rocky cover. Additionally, bank fishing is more productive from the picnic area, providing anglers with convenient access to active fish. It's important to note that Dexter Pond's road closure starts April 1, which could affect access to some areas.
As summer sets in from May to August, trout activity diminishes, but bass fishing thrives. Largemouth bass linger in shallow or weedy zones, whereas smallmouth bass favor rocky structures like those near the dam and covered bridge. Additionally, the river sections below the dam come alive with hatchery spring Chinook salmon and summer steelhead.
Come fall, September to November, trout fishing resurges with fresh fall stockings. Smallmouth bass still frequent rocky areas, and largemouth bass shift slightly within the lake. Below the dam, coho salmon and steelhead present exciting opportunities.
Winter, from December to February, sees quieter times at the reservoir. While trout fishing drops, the Middle Fork Willamette River still offers decent coho and steelhead fishing below the dam.
Effective Fishing Techniques
As you prepare to fish at Dexter Reservoir, mastering effective techniques tailored to each species will greatly enhance your experience. For trout, standard lake-fishing methods work wonders. Employ simple still-fishing rigs with sliding sinkers, and bait them with enticing options like PowerBait or natural bait. Casting spinners and spoons also yields successful catches, especially in areas with moderate currents, such as near the covered bridge or where cooler water enters the reservoir. An effective setup for pursuing trout is a 5 feet ultra-light action rod paired with a spinning reel and 2-6 pound monofilament line, which enhances sensitivity and control.
When targeting bass, spring is prime time to use lures that mimic perch, crayfish, and minnows. Plastic worms, grubs, and jigs remain effective year-round. Smallmouth bass favor rocky covers, so focus your efforts near the dam or at the covered bridge's rocky areas. During water temperatures of 60 to 65 degrees, shallow lake arms are prime bass territory. It's important to note that in certain areas, like Little Sandy Creek, fishing is prohibited at night from ½ hour after sunset to ½ hour before sunrise, except as permitted.
For panfish like yellow perch and bluegills, standard techniques suffice. Opt for small lures and baits around submerged logs and weed beds. Seek out coves rich in aquatic vegetation, and early in the season, try spinners and bait near boat ramps. Reliable spots include Tanner Creek Arm and the cove north of Eagle Point Recreation Area.
Reservoir Amenities
Nestled 16 miles southeast of Eugene, Dexter Reservoir offers a variety of amenities that guarantee your outdoor experience. The Dexter State Recreation Site, a sprawling 100-acre park adjacent to Dexter Dam, provides essential facilities like picnic tables, toilets, and a convenient boat launch. This site is perfect for a day of relaxation or launching your boat for a fishing adventure. The reservoir is not only a hub for recreational fishing but also a vibrant spot for swimming, sailing, and other water sports.
For those looking to explore beyond the water, nearby attractions include three state parks with hiking trails and camping opportunities. While specific hiking and camping details aren't provided for Dexter Reservoir itself, these parks afford plenty of outdoor exploration options. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to view various species of waterfowl, especially during winter months. The reservoir spans a surface area of 1,025 acres, offering ample space for both anglers and water sport enthusiasts alike.
If you're interested in the University of Oregon Rowing Team, you might catch a glimpse of their practice sessions, a tradition since 1967. With multiple access points around the dam and boat ramp areas, Dexter Reservoir assures you have ample opportunity to engage with nature and enjoy a fulfilling outdoor experience.
Safety and Precautions
To guarantee your fishing trip at Dexter Reservoir is both pleasurable and secure, it's critical to comply with local safety guidelines and precautions. Start by adhering to boating regulations, ensuring you and your companions wear life jackets at all times. Keep an eye on weather conditions, as sudden changes can impact both safety and fish behavior. Confirm you're in designated fishing zones, away from swimming areas, to minimize accidents.
Understanding water hazards is essential. With depths reaching 56 feet, drowning risks are real, so be wary of strong currents near the dam and watch for submerged logs. Slippery banks also pose a threat, so exercise caution when traversing these areas.
Your equipment needs regular inspection to avoid accidents. Check your fishing gear for damage, handle hooks with care, and use appropriate line strengths for the fish you're targeting. Choose environmentally safe tackle and lures to minimize harm.
Respect the environment by practicing catch-and-release gently and adhering to seasonal restrictions. In the Central Zone, where angling regulations apply, it's important to note that trout fishing has specific daily limits and size restrictions. Avoid targeting protected species and confirm you're not damaging aquatic habitats. Finally, dispose of fishing waste properly to keep Dexter Reservoir pristine for future anglers.
Additional Fishing Resources
While safeguarding safety and respecting the environment are paramount, enhancing your fishing experience at Dexter Reservoir can be achieved with the right resources at your fingertips. The Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) website is a treasure trove of information, offering articles on fishing techniques, gear recommendations, and the latest fishing regulations. It's imperative to stay updated on these rules to warrant a responsible and legal fishing trip. Dexter Reservoir, being a 1,000-acre body of water, provides ample opportunities for a variety of fishing experiences and is home to species such as rainbow trout, chinook salmon, bass, catfish, and crappie. Additionally, checking online fishing reports from sites like SportfishingReport.com can provide you with up-to-date maps, photos, and recent fish activity data, helping you target the most productive spots. For personalized advice, consider reaching out to local fishermen and guides who can share their firsthand knowledge of Dexter Reservoir's nuances.
Detailed maps of the reservoir and surrounding areas are invaluable for pinpointing prime fishing locations, whether you're interested in bank fishing or exploring by boat. Joining online fishing communities and forums can also be beneficial, connecting you with fellow anglers who can offer support and share their experiences. These resources collectively enhance your fishing adventures, warranting rewarding trips to Dexter Reservoir.
