Fishing Adventures at Pine Hollow Reservoir You Can’t Miss

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At Pine Hollow Reservoir, nestled within the scenic Mount Hood National Forest, you'll discover an angler's paradise. Cast your line in vibrant waters thriving with rainbow trout and largemouth bass. Whether you prefer using Mack's Wedding Ring spinners for trout or fly fishing near lush willow groves, there's a technique for every enthusiast. The well-equipped facilities, including boat rentals and picnic spots, guarantee a comfortable day by the water. And it's not just fishing—ice fishing, kayaking, and swimming invite year-round adventure. Nearby RV parks and dining options complete the experience. Uncover the secrets of Pine Hollow's vibrant fishing adventures.

Key Takeaways

  • Experience year-round trout fishing with spring and fall stockings, ensuring exciting catches at Pine Hollow Reservoir.
  • Enhance your fishing adventure with vibrant Mack's Wedding Ring spinners and targeted trout tactics.
  • Explore prime fishing spots like the scenic southwest shore or the convenient east and south boat ramps.
  • Enjoy various amenities including boat rentals, picnic areas, and nearby campgrounds for a complete outdoor experience.
  • Participate in the annual Fishing Derby in late April for a chance to win prizes and enjoy a community event.

Discover Pine Hollow Reservoir

Nestled in the scenic landscape of Wasco County, Oregon, Pine Hollow Reservoir offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. You'll find this 240-acre reservoir near the boundary of the Mount Hood National Forest, inviting you to explore its tranquil waters and diverse wildlife. Established in the 1960s for irrigation, it now serves as a delightful destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with public access guaranteed through a 10-foot easement bought by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW). The reservoir's mesotrophic status supports a variety of fish species, making it an ideal spot for anglers looking to catch rainbow trout, brown bullheads, and more. The OR Department of Fish & Wildlife staff is responsible for the stocking of fish, ensuring a vibrant fishing experience for visitors. Fishing enthusiasts can also explore year-round fishing opportunities for warmwater species like bass and crappie, similar to the offerings at Canby Pond. With primitive camping sites available nearby, nature lovers can enjoy an extended stay amidst the beautiful surroundings.

Whether you're an angler, boater, or camper, Pine Hollow beckons with its two public boat ramps and a private resort that provides boat rentals, a campground, and a general store. You can cast your line along most of the 3.2-mile shoreline, with excellent fishing spots on the north shore near the resort and a day-use area on the south shore. While accessible year-round, be mindful that winter weather can limit both access and fishing success.

Nearby, the community of Wamic and the scenic views of Mt. Hood enhance your visit, offering a picturesque backdrop for your adventures, making Pine Hollow Reservoir an unforgettable destination.

Top Fishing Techniques

After exploring the natural splendor of Pine Hollow Reservoir, it's time to gear up for an exciting fishing adventure. With a variety of techniques at your disposal, you're sure to reel in a catch. Start with trout fishing; rely on standard lake-fishing methods like bait fishing using worms, nightcrawlers, or Berkley PowerBait in pink, rainbow, or yellow. Trolling with Luhr Jensen's Ford Fenders or smaller blades can increase your success rate. For a change of pace, try fly fishing. This technique, often practiced near the dam or campground, involves working close to the shoreline amidst emergent vegetation. The lakeside resort offers camping and boat rentals, making it convenient for a multi-day fishing trip.

To optimize your fishing experience, consider these techniques:

  1. Trout Tactics: Use Mack's Wedding Ring spinners in vivid colors like pink or chartreuse to attract trout. Selecting the appropriate line strength can enhance your chances of success by improving casting distance and sensitivity.
  2. Seasonal Strategy: Aim for spring or fall when the reservoir is stocked and conditions are ideal.
  3. Bass Basics: Early in the season, target largemouth bass near willows with 3-inch black weedless jigs.
  4. Fly Fishing Fundamentals: Equip yourself with a medium-heavy baitcasting rod and focus on areas with emergent vegetation. A composite rod, combining graphite and fiberglass, can offer a balanced mix of sensitivity and strength, ideal for varied fishing conditions. Keep in mind that certain waterbodies may be inaccessible due to snow during the winter months, so plan your trip accordingly.

Each technique offers unique challenges and rewards, ensuring a thrilling experience at Pine Hollow Reservoir.

Prime Fishing Locations

Pine Hollow Reservoir offers a diverse array of prime fishing spots that cater to both novice and seasoned anglers. Located in Wasco County, Oregon, this 240-acre reservoir is a haven for those seeking rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and bluegill. Head to the north shore resort or the south shore day-use area for convenient access near the boat ramps. These spots are perfect for launching a day of fishing fun.

For a more scenic experience, try the southwest shore, where willows and oak trees provide a picturesque backdrop. If you prefer bank fishing, the east and south boat ramps are excellent choices. The dam area and its surrounding dikes on the northeast shore are also popular, especially during the hot summer months when deep water near the dam becomes a refuge for trout. With nearby cities like Pine Hollow and Tygh Valley, visitors can easily access amenities and facilities for a comfortable fishing trip. Walter Wirth Lake, known for its annual stocking of 20,000 trout, provides a similar fishing experience with ample parking and park amenities.

During spring and fall, the reservoir is stocked with trout, making these seasons ideal for a successful catch. Summer months see a shift towards bass and panfish activity, with largemouth bass favoring the coves and points in late summer. Largemouth bass fishing is excellent in lakes such as Lake of the Ozarks and Table Rock Lake, where diverse techniques can be employed. Trolling and fly fishing near the dam can also yield rewarding results, especially with the right attractors.

Facilities and Amenities

As you explore the prime fishing locations at Pine Hollow Reservoir, you'll discover an array of facilities and amenities designed to enhance your outdoor adventure. Nestled just outside the Mount Hood National Forest, this 240-acre reservoir is not only a fishing paradise but also a well-equipped recreational haven. Whether you're casting a line for rainbow trout or enjoying a leisurely picnic by the water, Pine Hollow caters to your every need. The reservoir is known for its excellent bass and trout fishing, attracting anglers from near and far.

Here's what you can expect to find:

  1. Campgrounds: Stay a night or more in the campgrounds near the reservoir, offering a scenic backdrop for your fishing trip.
  2. Boat Launches: Take advantage of two public boat launches, ensuring easy access to the water for boating enthusiasts.
  3. Picnic Areas: Unwind in designated picnic spots, perfect for a family outing or a peaceful lunch break amidst nature.
  4. Boat Rentals: Don't have a boat? Rent one at the Pine Hollow Lakeside Resort and RV Park, and explore the reservoir at your own pace. Consider using an ice fishing sled on skis for efficient winter transportation of your gear if you plan to fish during colder months.

For those interested in winter fishing, using a reliable snowmobile brand can enhance your ice fishing experience at Pine Hollow Reservoir. Accessible via Hwy 97, reaching Pine Hollow is straightforward. With local dining options and RV accommodations nearby, your visit promises to be both comfortable and memorable.

Stocking and Conservation

Anglers visiting Pine Hollow Reservoir will find a well-managed haven for fishing enthusiasts, thanks to thoughtful stocking and conservation efforts. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) meticulously plans and executes stocking schedules, ensuring a plentiful supply of rainbow trout throughout the year. This includes spring stocking in March and April, with thousands of legal-sized and trophy rainbow trout introduced into the waters. Fall stocking continues in September and October, bringing additional 1,975 trout each session, including both legal size and trophy specimens. These stockings occur near easily accessible locations like boat ramps and day-use areas, making it convenient for you to enjoy a fruitful fishing experience.

Conservation efforts at Pine Hollow focus on sustaining vibrant populations of rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and bluegill. For those interested in kokanee, year-round trout fishing is available at nearby Timothy Lake, offering a different fishing adventure. year-round trout fishing is possible, although it slows mid-summer. For bass enthusiasts, catch-and-release practices are encouraged to maintain trophy fisheries. Good bank access complements these efforts, though some areas remain restricted due to private property. Winter may limit access due to road conditions, but the resort provides boat rentals and gear. Anglers should be aware of the trout fishing seasons and regulations to ensure compliance with local rules. The Upper Sacramento River in Northern California is a premier trout fishing destination with over 30 miles of public access. By following standard lake-fishing techniques and local regulations, you'll help preserve the reservoir's rich aquatic life.

Seasonal Fishing Insights

While each season at Pine Hollow Reservoir offers unique fishing opportunities, understanding the nuances of each period can greatly enhance your experience. In spring, the cool weather is perfect for trout fishing. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) stocks the reservoir with thousands of rainbow trout, making it a prime time to cast your line. Bait fishing with PowerBait or worms from the bank is particularly effective, while boaters can try trolling in a figure-8 pattern for success.

In summer, the heat slows trout activity, pushing them to deeper waters near the dam. Adjust your strategy by using weighted lures or a downrigger to reach these cooler depths, and don't overlook the chance to catch bluegill and brown bullhead catfish. Consider using nightcrawlers as they effectively mimic the aquatic insect larvae found in a trout's diet. Fall brings a return of cooler temperatures and renewed trout stocking, including trophy-sized fish. Trolling with effective lures like Thomas Buoyant Lures gives you an edge.

Winter poses accessibility challenges, but if conditions allow, you might try ice fishing. If you're considering using worms, European nightcrawlers are a resilient choice during this cold season. Visitors can also participate in the Annual Fishing Derby held in late April, which brings together anglers of all ages and offers prizes for the biggest catches. Here's a quick guide to make the most of each season:

  1. Spring: Bank bait fishing.
  2. Summer: Weighted lures.
  3. Fall: Lure trolling.
  4. Winter: Ice fishing opportunities.

Enjoy Recreational Activities

For those seeking more than just fishing, Pine Hollow Reservoir offers a treasure trove of recreational activities to enjoy. Imagine gliding across the serene water on a rented pontoon boat, paddle board, or kayak, absorbing the breathtaking views around you. With two public boat ramps, launching your watercraft is a breeze. When the sun is high, take an invigorating swim or engage in some exhilarating water sports like boating and rafting, making the most of your time on the lake. Nearby, the charming "Hillbilly Farm" offers a quaint setting where visitors can enjoy a self-picking salad bar and interact with farm animals, adding to the rural charm of the area.

Back on land, the resort's campground beckons with its inviting amenities. Challenge your friends to a game of volleyball or a friendly match of horseshoes. If you're staying overnight, choose from various camping options, including RV sites, ensuring a comfortable stay. Don't forget to visit the general store for any essentials you might need. The reservoir is a fantastic spot for fishing enthusiasts, and using a trolling motor with Spot Lock technology can make the experience even more enjoyable. Consider using an Argo vehicle for enhanced access to remote fishing spots, ensuring safety and ease of transport. The resort is located in Wamic, Oregon, which is part of the scenic Tygh Valley, offering visitors a picturesque setting to relax and enjoy nature.

Beyond the reservoir, explore the nearby Mt. Hood National Forest for hiking or take a short trip to White River Falls State Park. The Deschutes River also offers amazing salmon and steelhead fishing, as well as exciting rafting and float trips. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in spotting deer, sometimes just steps from your campsite.

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