Applegate Lake Fishing Report: Best Spots, Tips & Recent Catches

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At Applegate Lake, you're in for year-round fishing in a 1,000-acre reservoir teeming with smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, crappie, and rainbow trout. For smallmouth, target rocky structures; largemouth lurk in shallow coves with weeds. Carberry Creek Arm, known for submerged timber, promises bigger bass. Rainbow trout bite well on nightcrawlers or PowerBait near the dam, Seattle Bar, and French Gulch. Spinners and nightcrawlers trolled on a Wedding Ring lure are great for trout. For crappie, focus on submerged structures by trolling small jigs. Recent reports highlight active catches across these spots. There's more to uncover on ideal strategies and timings.

Key Takeaways

  • Applegate Lake offers excellent bass fishing at French Gulch, Seattle Bar, and Carberry Creek Arm, known for submerged timber.
  • Rainbow trout are stocked throughout the year, with peak fishing from late spring to early fall.
  • Successful catfish baits include nightcrawlers and stink baits, especially near dam riprap and woody cover.
  • Trolling near submerged structures in Carberry Creek is effective for crappie during warmer months.
  • Steelhead fishing is best in rocky, gravelly areas with a steady current, using spinners, spoons, and drift fishing techniques.

Overview and Opportunities

Applegate Lake offers a unique fishing experience nestled in the scenic Siskiyou Mountains just north of the California border. Created in 1980 by damming the Applegate River, this nearly 1,000-acre reservoir sits at 2,000 feet elevation. While snowfall can occur, it rarely lingers, making access generally good for both bank and boat anglers. Keep in mind that winter and late-season draw-downs can impact accessibility, so plan accordingly.

Fishing at Applegate Lake is fruitful year-round, with plentiful smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, crappie, and rainbow trout. Smallmouth bass thrive near rocky structures and are more numerous compared to their largemouth counterparts. Rainbow trout are stocked four times annually, offering consistent opportunities. Crappie and bullhead catfish populations add variety to your catch. The Carberry Creek Arm is known for its submerged timber, which attracts larger bass, making it a prime spot for anglers targeting trophy catches.

The Copper Boat Ramp is a top choice for easy access, especially when water levels are low. French Gulch provides an alternative when other ramps are unusable. Whether you're casting from shore or a boat, using nightcrawlers for trout and lures for bass can boost your success. Tackle the lake with these insights, and you'll find yourself reeling in impressive catches.

Trout and Salmon Insights

Fishing enthusiasts exploring the abundant opportunities at Applegate Lake will find the pursuit of trout and salmon particularly rewarding. You'll encounter diverse trout species, including steelhead, rainbow, and cutthroat trout. The peak trout fishing season runs from late spring to early fall, but the reservoir remains open year-round. Bank anglers often achieve success with nightcrawlers or PowerBait, especially near the dam, French Gulch, and Seattle Bar in the evenings. Trolling a Wedding Ring spinner with nightcrawler or using dodgers and flashers can effectively attract trout. Remember, wild rainbow and cutthroat trout must be released, while landlocked salmon are treated as trout.

Chinook salmon are another exciting target here. These fish can range from pan-sized to substantial double digits. The best baits include herring or anchovies trolled with a flasher. Evening fishing near the dam and French Gulch increases your chances. Occasionally, Chinook salmon catches add to your Applegate experience, though hot summers or low water might slow the bite. Regulations allow bait use in specific areas, and you'll need to adapt your techniques to current water conditions and seasons for ideal results. Understanding these insights guarantees a fruitful fishing adventure at Applegate Lake. Additionally, anglers should be mindful of the variety of species and regulations in the river to ensure compliance and a safe experience. Recently, the Maslow Project was awarded a significant grant to assist homeless children, youth, and families in the Rogue Valley, highlighting the community's commitment to supporting those in need.

Bass Fishing Strategies

For anglers looking to maximize their bass fishing success at Applegate Lake, understanding the habitat and behavior of both smallmouth and largemouth bass is pivotal. Smallmouth bass often hang around rocky structures like dam faces and points, while largemouth bass prefer the shallower waters of coves filled with weeds and woody structures. To successfully catch bass, consider these strategies:

  1. Choose the Right Lures: Crankbaits are versatile for both species, while plastic worms and grubs effectively mimic small fish. Spinnerbaits excel in varied conditions, and topwater lures shine in warm-water, particularly at sunset.
  2. Target Key Areas: French Gulch and Seattle Bar are hotspots. The Carberry Creek Arm, with its submerged timber, provides an ideal habitat for both smallmouth and largemouth bass.
  3. Focus on Structure: Cast near rocks, submerged timber, and drop-offs. Trolling with lures that imitate prey can be particularly effective. Bank fishing is the best option at low reservoir levels, making it essential to select accessible areas.
  4. Time It Right: Early morning and dusk are prime times when bass are more active. Spring and early summer are the best seasons as warming waters increase bass activity. It's important to note that fishing activity peaks in the early morning hours and late afternoon/evening, with midday seeing a decrease in fish activity.

Catfish and Crappie Tips

When chasing catfish and crappie at Applegate Lake, knowing the right techniques and locations can make all the difference. For catfish, start with the best baits—nightcrawlers, cut baits like shad, or stink baits can be highly effective. Try still-fishing with your bait on the bottom, especially around dam riprap or creek channels. If you're after larger catfish, consider using live bait like bluegills near submerged logs and stumps. Flathead catfish, known for being elusive, prefer areas with woody cover such as logs, stumps, and undercut banks. Remember, spring and summer, particularly the pre-spawn period in late April and May, are prime times. Fishing during low-light hours or overnight can increase your chances of landing a big one.

Crappie fishing at Applegate Lake requires a different approach. Small jigs and lures that mimic small fish are your best bet. Trolling with these lures near submerged structures like trees at Carberry Creek can be productive. Also, consider casting near docks or piers, and don't shy away from using a fish-finder to locate schools. Warmer months are ideal, and crappies tend to be more active during the evening. Target shallow coves, weed lines, and hidden cover areas for the best results. With these strategies, you'll be well-prepared for a successful outing. Additionally, Selmac Lake is known to produce trophy-sized largemouth bass, making it a great option for anglers seeking a variety of fishing experiences in the area.

Steelhead River Fishing

Steelhead river fishing can be an exhilarating experience, especially when you're equipped with the right techniques and local insights. Understanding steelhead habits and using effective strategies can significantly improve your chances of success. These fish favor rocky or gravelly habitats with a steady current, often holding near boulders or in deep sections with slower water. It's important to note that steelhead are notoriously difficult to catch, which is why employing the right strategies is crucial. To maximize your fishing experience, consider these techniques and tips:

  1. Spinner and Spoon Fishing: These lures are highly effective from both shore and boat, especially in shallow waters with a current. The vibration and flash can attract steelhead even from a distance.
  2. Drift Fishing: Use baits like salmon roe or sand shrimp with a small bait sac on a 2/0 hook. Ensure your line setup includes just enough weight to tick off the bottom naturally.
  3. Plunking: Particularly effective in high waters, this method involves still fishing in current with bait. It's great for targeting fish holding in deeper flows. Keep in mind that steelhead fishing is good on the lower Umatilla River, making it an excellent location to try this method.
  4. Float Fishing with Jigs: Year-round success can be found with jigs that mimic baitfish. Focus on fishing in areas where the current matches a walking pace for the most natural presentation.

General Advice and Resources

Anyone planning a fishing trip to Applegate Lake should arm themselves with the right tools and knowledge to make the most of their experience. Located in Oregon, this 988-acre lake offers a diverse fishery with both warm-water and cold-water species. Understanding the lake's depth, reaching up to 225 feet, and its 82,200 acre-feet capacity can guide you in choosing the right equipment and techniques. The lake supports popular species like rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and black crappie, making it an angler's haven. Surrounded by the Rogue River National Forest, the scenic environment adds to the allure of fishing here. Access is year-round, but water levels can vary, affecting fishing conditions. Keep in mind that the reservoir is currently 57% full. To maximize your success, start at the Copper Boat Ramp, which provides reliable access and favorable fishing conditions. This spot is known for active fish, with recent reports highlighting successful catches of rainbow trout, thanks to recent stocking efforts by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. The lake's shoreline stretches 18.5 miles, offering ample space for anglers to find their perfect fishing spot.

Stay informed with the U.S. Forest Service's creel surveys, which provide insights into fish populations and angler success. Participate in these surveys to contribute to the management of this two-story fishery and enhance your fishing adventure.

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