Southwest Oregon's lakes and reservoirs offer superb bass fishing perfect for both novice and seasoned anglers. Try Emigrant Reservoir or Applegate Lake for epic bass action, especially during spring and early summer. Use spinnerbaits for smallmouth bass in shallow areas, or jigs near structures for largemouths. Don't overlook Tenmile or Siltcoos Lakes for a scenic experience. Early morning or evening in spring and fall provides the best chances. Many locations, like Emigrant Reservoir, have convenient facilities including ramps, picnic spots, and camping. Uncover ideal fishing at these premier locations, where each lake promises unique challenges and rewards.
key Takeaways
- Emigrant Reservoir offers excellent bass fishing, especially in spring and early summer, with convenient access and amenities.
- Applegate Lake is a prime location for catching smallmouth and largemouth bass, enhanced by regular fish stocking.
- Mercer Lake provides great opportunities for warmwater fish and bass, particularly during spring and summer.
- Tenmile Lake features abundant largemouth and smallmouth bass populations, making it a scenic bass fishing destination.
- Lower Umpqua River is renowned for its smallmouth bass, with peak seasons yielding up to 100 fish.
Emigrant Reservoir Fishing
When you're planning a bass fishing trip in Southwest Oregon, Emigrant Reservoir should be at the top of your list. Located just 5 miles south of Ashland, this nearly 900-acre reservoir is a prime spot for both smallmouth and largemouth bass, as well as rainbow trout. For the best bass fishing experience, consider launching from the boat ramps at Songer Wayside or Emigrant Lake County Park. These facilities provide convenient access to the reservoir's diverse fishing areas and include recreational amenities like picnic spots and campsites.
In terms of fishing strategies, spring and early summer are the ideal times to target bass. Smallmouth bass are often found along the shorelines, making them accessible to anglers on foot or from a boat. Largemouth bass, on the other hand, prefer shallow areas with plenty of cover. Using lures such as spinnerbaits and jigs can increase your success rate. Although there's bank access at the Hill Creek arm and upper Emigrant Creek arm, a boat gives you the edge in reaching the reservoir's most productive spots. As the season progresses, remember to adjust your tactics for deeper water fishing during the warmer months. For those looking to explore ideal largemouth bass fishing spots, Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri is renowned for its exceptional opportunities.
Target Bass Species
Although bass fishing in Southwest Oregon offers a variety of experiences, targeting specific bass species can greatly boost your success. When it comes to smallmouth bass, Emigrant Reservoir is your go-to spot. In spring, focus on shoreline fishing, as smallmouths thrive in these shallow areas before retreating to deeper waters as temperatures rise. Use spinnerbaits to mimic their prey and increase your catch rate.
For largemouth bass, concentrate on shallow areas with abundant cover. Look for structures and vegetation where these bass hide. Spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and jigs are your best lures here. Cast near structures to entice these ambush predators.
Crappie, another popular target, congregates in shallow areas during spring, searching for warmer waters. Use jigs and slip bobbers to effectively catch them. Meanwhile, bluegill are perfect for beginners. They linger near shorelines and are easily caught with small hooks and worms beneath a bobber.
Lastly, if you're up for a challenge, try targeting brown bullhead catfish. Fish at night with strong-smelling baits in deeper holes, though they can be caught during the day too. This offers a year-round opportunity to expand your fishing repertoire.
Seasonal Fishing Tips
As the seasons change in Southwest Oregon, adapting your fishing techniques is essential to maximizing your catch. In the spring, bass are actively spawning. Focus on shallow areas in lakes and reservoirs where they're easier to catch near cover and structure. Here, you can capitalize on their activity with the right lure and presentation. When summer rolls around, bass retreat to deeper waters to escape the heat. Use deeper-diving lures to increase your chances and explore varying depths until you find their hangout spots.
In fall, bass begin preparing for winter, often found in shallow feeding areas or congregating around structures. Adjust your techniques to target these schools, taking advantage of their predictable behavior. As winter sets in, fishing can slow down. However, targeting deeper holes with slower presentations can still yield largemouth and smallmouth bass.
Remember these key seasonal tips:
- Spring: Target shallow areas for active spawning bass.
- Summer: Move to deeper waters using deeper-diving lures.
- Fall: Adjust techniques to find schools near shallow feeding zones.
- Winter: Focus on deeper holes with slow presentations.
Early morning and evening remain prime times across all seasons, as bass are more active during these cooler periods.
Facilities and Accessibility
Southwest Oregon offers a variety of well-maintained facilities and accessible fishing spots that cater to both novice and experienced anglers. Emigrant Reservoir is a prime location, managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, providing multiple access points along its shore. The earthen ramp at Songer Wayside and two concrete ramps at Emigrant Lake County Park make boat launching a breeze. While bank access is available at Hill Creek and upper Emigrant Creek arms, the best fishing here is typically achieved by boat.
Applegate Lake stands out with Hart-Tish Park offering tent and RV camping sites, complete with essential amenities, to enhance your fishing adventure. This makes it an ideal spot for anglers looking to combine their fishing trip with a camping experience. Meanwhile, Cooper Creek Reservoir and Selmac Lake both provide amenities like picnic areas, restrooms, and fishing piers, making them perfect for a day trip with family or friends.
Whether you're casting from the shore or launching a boat, these facilities and accessibility features make Southwest Oregon a bass angler's paradise. You'll find everything you need for a successful and enjoyable fishing outing across these well-equipped reservoirs and lakes.
Other Fishing Locations
Beyond the well-trodden paths of Emigrant Reservoir and Applegate Lake, a host of other fishing locations await avid bass anglers in Southwest Oregon. Nestled between the lush landscapes and serene waters, these spots promise excellent fishing experiences for those seeking adventure beyond the usual haunts.
- Mercer Lake: Known for warmwater fish, Mercer Lake provides excellent opportunities for catching bass, especially during spring and summer. As bass actively spawn, it's the perfect time for you to cast your line and reel in some impressive catches.
- Tenmile Lake: Situated near the Oregon-California border, Tenmile Lake offers abundant populations of both largemouth and smallmouth bass. It's a prime destination for anglers looking to test their skills and enjoy a day surrounded by beautiful scenery.
- Siltcoos Lake: Located on the Central Coast, Siltcoos Lake combines breathtaking views with diverse fish habitats. It's an idyllic spot for bass fishing, providing a rich experience for both seasoned and novice anglers.
- Lower Umpqua River: Renowned for its smallmouth bass fishing potential, this river offers anglers the chance to catch up to 100 fish in a day during peak seasons. It's a must-visit for any serious bass fishing enthusiast.
Notable Fishing Waters
While exploring the lesser-known fishing spots can be thrilling, some notable waters in Southwest Oregon consistently lure anglers with their abundant catches and scenic beauty. At the forefront of these premier bass fisheries is Lost Creek Reservoir. Not only does it offer a mix of rainbow trout and smallmouth bass, but it also provides the opportunity to catch spring Chinook salmon. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a family looking for a fun outing, Lost Creek's picturesque setting is perfect for both.
Next, head to Emigrant Lake, just a short drive from Ashland. Known for its warmwater fish species, it's a hotspot for largemouth and smallmouth bass, especially in the spring and fall. The local tip? Try your luck near the rocky points and submerged structures where bass love to hide.
Cooper Creek Reservoir is another gem, renowned for its regular stocking of rainbow trout. Spanning 160 acres, this reservoir invites you to enjoy not just large bass, but also panfish like bluegill. With facilities like a boat launch and fishing pier, you're set for a successful day on the water. Remember, the best rewards come to those who know the water well.
Applegate Lake Overview
Nestled near the California border, Applegate Lake is a prime fishing destination in southwest Oregon, boasting around 1,000 acres of diverse angling opportunities. It's an ideal spot for catching smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and the ever-popular rainbow trout and Chinook salmon, thanks to regular stocking efforts. Spring and fall are the peak seasons here, promising plentiful catches when you use nightcrawlers, troll effectively, or employ standard bass lures. Anglers can also explore Walter Wirth Lake and its diverse fishery, offering ample parking and additional park amenities. Timothy Lake, known for its year-round trout fishing, is another excellent location for anglers in Oregon.
Imagine your day at Applegate Lake with these four highlights:
- Smallmouth Bass: These fighters are plentiful, offering a thrilling challenge with every cast.
- Largemouth Bass: Known for their size, these fish provide rewarding catches for persistent anglers.
- Rainbow Trout: Regularly stocked, these trout are a favorite for their vibrant colors and fighting spirit.
- Chinook Salmon: A prized catch, especially during their seasonal runs.
For a complete adventure, Hart-Tish Park offers convenient camping options, adding comfort to your fishing trip. Don't miss the chance to explore the Applegate River, where winter steelhead runs peak from mid-February to March, broadening your fishing opportunities in southwest Oregon.
Access and Amenities
When planning your fishing trip to southwest Oregon, you'll find numerous access points and amenities that make the experience enjoyable and hassle-free. Emigrant Reservoir is a prime example, offering easy access with its multiple boat launches, including an earthen ramp at Songer Wayside and two concrete ramps at Emigrant Lake County Park. These facilities guarantee you can get your boat in the water without a hitch. After a day on the lake, you can unwind at the recreational areas with picnic spots and campsites, perfect for a relaxing evening under the stars.
For those seeking overnight stays, Hart-Tish Park at Applegate Lake is ideal. It offers tent and RV campgrounds with online reservations, making it easy to secure a spot before you arrive. This convenience adds to the fishing experience, allowing you to focus on reeling in that big catch.
If you're fishing with family or have accessibility needs, locations like Cooper Creek Reservoir and Selmac Lake are excellent choices. They provide amenities such as boat launches and picnic areas, and they cater to disabled anglers, guaranteeing everyone can enjoy the sport. With these thoughtful arrangements, your fishing adventure in southwest Oregon is set to be memorable.
Outdoor Activities and Guides
As you enjoy the well-equipped access points and amenities in southwest Oregon, you'll find there's more to explore beyond just fishing. The region offers a diverse array of outdoor activities, seamlessly blending adventure with nature. Whether you're casting a line in search of bass or hiking a breathtaking trail, the options are abundant and engaging.
Consider these favored activities and guides:
- Guided Fishing Trips: Enhance your bass fishing experience with expert guides on the John Day and lower Umpqua Rivers. These trips come with high-tech gear and meals, perfect for both novice and seasoned anglers.
- Applegate Reservoir Trail: This 17.5-mile multi-use trail is ideal for hiking and mountain biking, offering scenic views and a closer connection to Oregon's natural beauty.
- Fishing Amenities: At spots like Cooper Creek Reservoir and Emigrant Lake, you'll find boat launches, campsites, and picnic areas to complete your outdoor adventure.
- Fishing Clinics and Events: Organized by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, these events are great for learning new techniques and connecting with fellow enthusiasts.
Discover Benson Lake in Oregon, a stocked 19-acre lake offering anglers plentiful opportunities to catch trout, bass, and crappie from March to October.
Embrace the beauty of southwest Oregon, where lakes and reservoirs provide the perfect backdrop for your next adventure.
