Discover Medco Pond, a hidden gem near Prospect in Jackson County, Oregon, perfect for anglers like you. This serene, high-altitude oasis boasts an array of fish species including rainbow trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie. Access is quaint yet satisfying, with vehicle restrictions adding charm and personal watercraft launches keeping it adventurous. Trout fishing triumphs in spring, while summer lures warmwater species. The pond's pristine surroundings and seasonal shifts make each visit unique. Imagine catching your limit amidst postcard-perfect scenery, just a short stride from roadside turnouts. There's much more to enjoy about this peaceful angler's retreat.
Key Takeaways
- Medco Pond offers diverse fishing opportunities for rainbow trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, bullhead catfish, and crappie.
- The pond is stocked with 2,000 legal-sized rainbow trout multiple times during spring.
- Personal watercraft can be launched from the roadside as vehicle access is restricted.
- Fishing is best in spring for trout and summer for warmwater species like bass and bluegill.
- The serene setting and elevation of 3,054 feet provide a scenic backdrop for anglers.
Location and Accessibility
Nestled in the scenic landscape of Jackson County, Oregon, Medco Pond, affectionately known as Crane Pond, offers a unique retreat for anglers seeking a tranquil fishing experience. Located near the quaint town of Prospect, this hidden gem is about 43 miles from Medford. To reach this serene spot, you'll journey south from Prospect along CO 992 (Butte Falls Prospect Hwy) for about 12 miles until you find access to the shoreline.
While the pond's beauty beckons you, getting there requires some preparation. Vehicle access is restricted due to past issues with vandalism and dumping, so plan to park in roadside turn-outs. Once there, you'll find a rugged terrain with some accessible paths leading to the water. If you're bringing a personal watercraft, remember that the boat ramp at the south end is gated. Medco Pond is well-known for its privately-owned status, so fishing here comes with a sense of exclusivity and responsibility. Keep in mind, Medco Pond is privately owned, so respect the property by staying away from the east bank and ensuring all trash is collected. This not only preserves your access but also helps maintain the pond's pristine environment. Remember, you can only launch personal watercraft from the roadway. With these considerations, you're ready to enjoy this peaceful fishing haven.
Fishing Opportunities
For anglers seeking a diverse fishing experience, Medco Pond offers a variety of opportunities that cater to both novice and seasoned fishers. If you're aiming for trout, traditional lake-fishing techniques using PowerBait or worms are your best bet. Keep an eye on stocking times—success often peaks shortly after trout are introduced, especially with the larger fall plantings. Medco Pond is stocked with 2,000 legal-sized rainbows multiple times during the spring, ensuring a plentiful catch for those who plan their trips accordingly.
You'll find rainbow trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, and bullhead catfish swimming in these waters, with crappie making an appearance too. The pond often gets surplus hatchery trout, and smaller ones are planted a year in advance, enriching the fishery. To ensure a pleasurable fishing experience, make sure to review and comply with the local fishing regulations at Medco Number 3 Pond.
As for seasonal strategies, trout fishing shines brightest in the spring. When summer rolls in, warmwater species like bass and bluegill become more active. Cast your line deeper for bass and crappie outside of their spawning season, while bluegill linger in shallower, warmer waters. Bullhead catfish are caught easily with simple bait rigs on the pond's bottom.
Fishing in the northern half and small coves can get weedy, so come prepared. Try small chronomid flies for bluegill, and lures mimicking fish or crayfish for bass. Always respect restricted areas and help keep Medco Pond pristine.
Available Facilities
When planning your visit to Medco Pond, understanding the available facilities and access restrictions is key to a smooth experience. Although there aren't any formal amenities, the pond offers a serene setting perfect for a day of fishing. Keep in mind that bank access is limited to designated areas, guaranteeing you have a safe and enjoyable experience. Boats aren't allowed, but you can launch personal watercraft from the roadside, giving you a unique vantage point on the water. Remember, camping and overnight stays aren't permitted, so plan your trip as a day outing.
You're encouraged to help maintain the pond's beauty by picking up any litter you find. This simple act helps keep the area open for everyone. As you enjoy the peaceful surroundings, be aware that fires, hunting, and trapping are prohibited. Respecting private property and following these guidelines assures the pond remains accessible for future visits. Anglers have reported good catch rates for targeted species, making it a great spot for fishing enthusiasts.
Located conveniently between Butte Falls and Prospect, Medco Pond is about an hour's drive from Medford. Pay attention to any road restrictions and be vigilant for any signs of vandalism or dumping, reporting any concerns to the ODFW. Your cooperation is crucial in preserving this hidden gem.
Seasonal Fishing Insights
Fishing at Medco Pond offers a delightful experience throughout the year, with each season bringing its own unique opportunities for anglers. In spring, the pond comes alive with trout stocking, drawing enthusiastic fishers. You'll find trout using typical lake-fishing techniques. As the water warms, largemouth bass and bluegill become lively, often in the shallows where they spawn. Crappie also make an appearance in these shallow waters, making spring a vibrant time to cast your line.
Summer's warmth shifts the dynamic. Trout bite best in the cool morning hours. As the sun climbs, bluegill become your target, easily caught with nightcrawlers under a bobber. Bass and crappie retreat to deeper waters, but remain catchable with lures mimicking smaller fish and crayfish. The pond, which is located between Butte Falls and Prospect, also provides a great spot for families to enjoy some quality bluegill fishing.
Fall introduces a fresh wave of trout, thanks to surplus stocking. Although bass and bluegill activity wanes with the chill, the use of a small boat or float tube can enhance your reach. Located between Butte Falls and Prospect, Medco Pond sits at an elevation of 3,054 feet, providing a serene backdrop for fishing. Winter slows the action considerably, with only the hardiest trout lingering from summer's stock. Remember to respect access restrictions year-round and report any issues to ODFW to help preserve this angling haven.
Lake Size and Surroundings
Nestled between the charming towns of Butte Falls and Prospect, Medco Pond offers a unique fishing experience amidst its picturesque surroundings. At an elevation of 3,054 feet, this private pond is smaller than nearby reservoirs like Emigrant Reservoir, making it an intimate spot for anglers seeking tranquility and abundant fish species. Though its specific size isn't detailed, the pond's relatively small nature adds to the appeal of personal exploration and discovery.
Access to Medco Pond is somewhat restricted, with vehicle access limited to the roadway due to past issues with vandals and dumpers. However, don't let this deter you—there's a small boat ramp at the south end, although it's currently gated. You're encouraged to launch personal watercraft from the roadway, making for an adventurous start to your fishing day.
Surrounded by a dynamic environment, Medco Pond's climate varies with cold spring temperatures giving way to a warm summer, ideal for fishing both cold-water trout and warm-water species like bluegill and largemouth bass. The shoreline is accessible for bank fishing, though there are restrictions on the east portion. This pond truly is a hidden gem waiting for your discovery!
Community and Resources
Amidst the natural beauty of Medco Pond, the local community and available resources enhance your fishing experience with a wealth of information and shared insights. Engaging in discussions on the Oregon Fishing Forum introduces you to family-friendly aspects of the pond, with bountiful bluegills and thrilling osprey sightings. It's a welcoming spot for beginners, especially kids, with helpful feedback about trout and other species. Unlike busier locations, Medco Pond offers a more serene environment, perfect for a relaxing fishing day. The pond is managed by the U.S. Forest Service, ensuring that regulations are in place to preserve its natural state and maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for all visitors.
To plan your trip, use Fishbrain for user-submitted fishing reports and tools to save baits and follow your favorite species. The app's BiteTime™ feature helps you optimize your fishing schedule, while detailed catch logs offer insights into recent activity. Additionally, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) provides weekly fishing reports, regulations, and a trout stocking schedule for informed fishing.
