Commence on an unforgettable fishing adventure at Benson Lake and Hartman Pond! In Washington's Mason County, Benson Lake boasts nearly 80 acres of prime trolling and shoreline spots for rainbow trout and largemouth bass. If Oregon's more your style, explore a serene 19-acre jewel within the Benson State Recreation Area, stocked with trout, bass, and crappie. Hartman Pond, nestled near the majestic Multnomah Falls, offers strollable access to diverse fish species from trout to bluegill. Beyond the catch, enjoy stunning landscapes and peaceful trails. Perfect your technique with spinners or live bait, and discover what makes these spots a true angler's paradise.
Key Takeaways
- Benson Lake in Washington offers excellent trolling and shoreline access, stocked with rainbow trout and largemouth bass for anglers.
- Oregon's Benson Lake is within the scenic Benson State Recreation Area, stocked with trout, bass, and crappie from March to October.
- Hartman Pond offers diverse fishing, including trout and warmwater species, with fishing piers and scenic trails for year-round opportunities.
- Best fishing techniques include using spinners, live minnows, and soft plastics, especially during early morning or late evening.
- Fishing access includes paved paths, picnic shelters, and restrooms, with modest park fees at these angler-friendly locations.
Exploring Benson Lake WA
Benson Lake's charm in Mason County, Washington, is a must-explore for any fishing enthusiast. Nestled at an elevation of 233 feet, this 79.80-acre gem is perfect for those seeking a tranquil yet thrilling fishing experience. You'll find its bowl-shaped expanse ideal for trolling, letting you glide effortlessly across the water while soaking in the serene surroundings. With excellent shoreline access, including bank access along the WDFW site, you'll have no trouble finding your sweet spot to cast a line. The lake is teeming with rainbow trout and largemouth bass, making it a haven for anglers. Recent stockings have kept the waters vibrant, with thousands of rainbow trout recently introduced, ensuring a lively fishing scene. In fact, the lake is stocked with 1,000 to 5,995 rainbow trout annually, further enhancing your fishing opportunities. Plan your visit during April and May for the best rainbow trout action, while largemouth bass can be pursued year-round. The largest rainbow trout stocked in recent history weighed 1.67 lbs, providing anglers with a chance to catch sizable fish. Access is a breeze; just head east from Shelton on Hwy 3. After a short drive, you'll find a convenient boat launch and well-maintained restrooms, though camping facilities aren't available. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a curious newcomer, Benson Lake offers an inviting and rewarding fishing adventure.
Discovering Benson Lake OR
Tucked away in the heart of Oregon's lush landscapes, there's a delightful spot waiting for you to explore: Benson Lake at the Benson State Recreation Area. This enchanting lake, nestled within a park steeped in history, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Originally donated by the philanthropic Simon Benson in 1915, this area was transformed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, creating what we enjoy today. The park is administered by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, ensuring its facilities are well-maintained for visitors. For those interested in longer visits, 12- and 24-month permits are available for purchase, providing access to all Oregon State Parks.
Benson Lake spans approximately 19 acres and is fed by the scenic Multnomah Creek. It's a haven for fishing enthusiasts, stocked with thousands of fish from March to October. Whether you're casting for trout, bass, or crappie, you'll find excellent bank access and accessible fishing docks to enhance your experience.
Beyond fishing, there's plenty to do. Enjoy a leisurely swim or paddle a non-motorized boat on the tranquil waters. The park also boasts a disc golf course, hiking trails, and a reservable picnic shelter—perfect for a family outing. Accessible only from exit #30 for eastbound traffic, make sure to plan your visit and pay the park fee for a seamless adventure.
Fishing at Hartman Pond
If you're already captivated by the charm of Benson Lake, you'll find Hartman Pond equally inviting. Nestled near the iconic Multnomah Falls and easily accessible via I-84, Exit 30, this serene spot offers a fantastic angling experience. Despite being smaller than Benson Lake, Hartman Pond boasts a diverse array of fish species, including trout, largemouth and smallmouth bass, catfish, bluegill, crappie, and perch. Whether you're an avid angler or a casual fisherman, you'll appreciate the excellent non-boating access, complete with fishing piers and scenic trails for casting your line. The stocking schedules for trout are subject to change, so it's wise to stay updated by checking the ODFW Weekly Fishing Report. Hartman Pond is not listed among the Columbia River Gorge Fishing Spots, which makes it a hidden gem for those seeking a unique fishing experience.
For those targeting trout, mark your calendars for May 27-31, 2024, when 1,250 rainbow trout are scheduled to be stocked. Hartman Pond also provides excellent year-round opportunities for warmwater fishing. You can try your luck in a float tube or any personal craft, but remember to check the ODFW Weekly Fishing Report for specific regulations.
Besides fishing, the area features a convenient picnic area and parking lot near the access points, perfect for a leisurely day outdoors. Don't forget to pay the modest park fee and enjoy the beauty and bounty of Hartman Pond!
Best Fishing Techniques
Discovering the best fishing techniques can transform your time at Hartman Pond into a thrilling adventure. For trout, spinners and Kastmasters are your go-to lures, mimicking the small fish and insects these fish love. Small crankbaits that imitate minnows or insects, along with dough baits like PowerBait, are also winners. If you're fly fishing, dry flies, nymphs, and streamers will entice the elusive trout, especially during the active spring and fall months.
When targeting bass and panfish, live minnows and worms are hard to beat for largemouth bass and panfish. Crayfish and small fish pieces are irresistible to bass. Bright-colored small jigs and spinners work wonders for panfish, while soft plastics in natural hues are effective for bass. In warmer months, crickets and small insects can coax pumpkinseed and yellow perch to bite. It is important to adhere to the regulations and restrictions in place for each fishing location to ensure sustainable fishing practices.
Timing is everything—early morning, late evening, or overcast days boost your chances. Focus on submerged structures, drop-offs, and weed beds. Adapt to changing conditions by experimenting with different baits, and stay patient. Remember, sustainable fishing practices and proper gear are key to a successful and responsible fishing adventure.
Access and Amenities
Nestled along the southern shore of the Columbia River, Benson Lake and Hartman Pond offer a delightful escape for outdoor enthusiasts with a range of access and amenities to enhance your visit. You'll find it easy to reach by taking Exit #30 if you're traveling eastbound. Once there, enjoy activities like swimming, disc golf, and non-motorized boating. Remember, boats need to be carried a short distance since only carry-in access is allowed.
The park is thoughtfully equipped with paved paths leading to accessible fishing docks, making it a breeze for everyone to cast a line. If a picnic is on your agenda, don't forget to reserve the group picnic shelter in advance, either online or by phone. Restrooms are conveniently located within the park, ensuring comfort during your stay.
For pet lovers, dogs are welcome but must be leashed, and they're not allowed in the water. A modest park fee is required, payable with credit cards. Operating year-round, the park is a gateway to nearby attractions like Multnomah Falls and offers a welcoming atmosphere for diverse families. Enjoy a perfect blend of nature and convenience at this scenic haven!
Species and Stocking Guide
After enjoying the convenience and amenities Benson Lake and Hartman Pond offer, it's time to focus on the exciting species and stocking opportunities these waters provide. Both lakes are a haven for anglers seeking a diverse fishing experience. You'll find a delightful mix of resident species, including crappie, sunfish, yellow perch, bullhead catfish, and both largemouth and smallmouth bass. These non-native species make for great fishing adventures, especially after the vibrant trout season. The nearby restoration project plays a crucial role, as it enhances two salmon-bearing streams, contributing to the biodiversity of the area.
Species and Stocking Highlights:
- Trout Extravaganza: Benson Lake kicks off with a spring stocking, releasing 2,000 trout in mid-March and a whopping 4,000 in mid-April. Hartman Pond follows suit with 1,250 trout in late May, ensuring an exciting catch. Anglers at Benson Lake can enjoy a daily limit of 5 hatchery trout, making it a perfect spot for trout enthusiasts.
- Warm-Water Wonders: Enjoy year-round angling with warm-water species, perfect for those who love bass, crappie, or the thrilling challenge of catching a large channel catfish at Hartman Pond.
- Stocking Insights: While trout are the spotlight, remember that schedules can change. Stay updated with the ODFW Weekly Fishing Report.
- Easy Access: Both lakes are fed by scenic creeks, offering excellent bank access and non-motorized boating, making your fishing trip both convenient and picturesque.
Regulations and Restrictions
When planning your fishing expedition at Benson Lake, it's important to be aware of the specific regulations and restrictions that guarantee the sustainability of these vibrant ecosystems. In Oregon, make sure your hatchery trout are at least 8 inches long and limit your catch to five per day. Wisconsin anglers should aim for bass at a minimum of 14 inches and adhere to the post-June 15 daily limit of five. British Columbia offers a more tailored approach with species-specific quotas and lake-specific methods. It is essential to follow these regulations as they play a crucial role in the restoration of degraded habitats and ensure that fish populations remain healthy.
Fishing methods in Oregon and Wisconsin are generally open, but keep an eye out for restricted areas and gear limitations. British Columbia requires attention to detail, as methods vary by species and lake. While Oregon and Wisconsin allow year-round fishing, British Columbia's seasons are species-dependent, so verify before casting. At Benson Lake, all game fish are available from the 4th Saturday in April to October 31, ensuring anglers have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sport while adhering to statewide minimum size and daily limits.
Navigating geographical restrictions is essential. In British Columbia, powered boats face limitations, while Oregon imposes no specific boating restrictions. Watch for no-fishing zones in British Columbia and Oregon's protected areas to avoid unintentional violations. By respecting these guidelines, you'll contribute to the preservation of these cherished waters, ensuring they remain an angler's paradise for years to come.
