How do you float the river in Bend, Oregon?
May 29, 2024
10 minute readBend, Oregon, is home to an abundance of majestic lakes that beckons anglers from far and near. These lakes boast an amazing diversity of fish, some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Northwest, and opportunities for different fishing techniques like fly fishing and spin fishing.
What makes Bend, Oregon, an incredible lake fishing destination?
Just a short drive from town is a bounty of beautiful lakes and reservoirs that are home to a wide variety of fish species. Cast a line in a high alpine lake, where dazzling mountain reflections, excellent morning hatches, and hungry trout await. Or soak up the stunning high desert views while trolling on a reservoir in search of impressively-sized fish. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil fishing experience at a mountain lake or a more exciting day of trolling for big fish on a reservoir, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in Central Oregon.
The variety of fish species is just as impressive as the variety of water. Trout fishing is what draws most anglers to Bend. The area is home to rainbows, browns, bulls, brookies, and more. The region is also home to a native species of trout known as the Redband Rainbow Trout, which is identifiable by its rosy red stripe along its side. Additionally, lower-elevation lakes host a great variety of warmwater species, including bass, catfish, and crappie.
With so many different fish species and lakes to choose from, there are plenty of opportunities to try or refine different fishing techniques. Fly fishing is quite popular around here, especially on the rivers. But lakes can be a perfect place to cast a dry fly with a nymph below or rig up a sinking line and strip in a flashy streamer to entice those trout. If you prefer spin fishing, you’re in luck! Trolling with spoons, spinners, or baited lines from a boat can produce fantastic catches, especially when targeting species like rainbow trout, brown trout, or kokanee salmon.
The calm and serene lakes of the region also lend themselves well to drift boat, kayak, or canoe fishing, allowing you to access secluded spots and target fish holding near weed beds or submerged structures.
Spring marks the beginning of the fishing season. With the melting snow and seasonal rains, our reservoirs and lakes start to replenish. As the days grow warmer, various bugs, like blue wing olives and green drakes, start hatching, enticing the fish to feast. Spring weather and conditions can be a bit unpredictable, so remember to pack your puffy jacket and check if boat ramps and roads are open.
Summer is the prime time for fishing around Bend, as the vibrant season brings an abundance of opportunities. With limitless blue skies, pleasant temperatures, and easy access to fishing spots, it’s the perfect time to gather your gear and head to the lakes. Not only do anglers relish the delightful summer conditions, but our finned companions do too. The warm weather and longer days contribute to frequent hatches of caddis, stoneflies, and pale morning dun, enticing hungry trout to indulge in a feast.
Summer also brings the risks of wildfires and scorching heat. If you’re fishing for cold water species like trout, increasing water temperatures can pose challenges to trout survival. So invest in a stream thermometer to check temps, especially during midday and afternoon hours. If temps are too high, have a backup plan like fishing lakes that house warmwater species like bass and crappie.
Fall brings a bounty of cooler temperatures that create a backdrop of golden hues. It’s a time when mayflies and caddisflies come alive, providing a much-needed meal for fish before snow and ice gather. This lively activity and beautiful scenery make fall an opportune time to cast your line.
During the winter months, lake fishing comes to a halt as many lakes freeze over or become inaccessible due to snow-covered roads. While lakes take the winter off, why not tie a few flies or plan your fishing adventures for the upcoming summer!
No matter what time of year you enjoy fishing, take a moment to look around between casts and enjoy the scenery. Central Oregon’s beauty will amaze you! Relish in the panoramic views of towering pine forests, vibrant wildflowers, and the majestic Cascade Mountains at Cultus Lake. Listen for the piercing cries of bald eagles soaring above the canyon walls at Lake Billy Chinook. Or, as the sun peeks over the horizon, take a deep breath of the crisp morning air at Cultus Lake and watch as flurries of mayflies dance along the calm water.
The lakes near Bend offer an extraordinary escape into the beauty of the natural world. And an excellent way to uphold and preserve all this breathtaking scenery is by practicing the Bend-specific Leave No Trace principles.
Now that you’re hooked let’s talk about some fantastic lakes to fish around Bend.
The best way to fish our lakes is by boat. A kayak, float tube, drift boat, or motorized lake boat gives you the ability to reach deeper waters, submerged structures, and hard-to-reach spots where fish tend to congregate. Don’t have a boat? No problem. Hire a local guide with one. Benefit from a guide’s extensive knowledge of the lakes, including productive spots, seasonal patterns, and preferred techniques.
These lakes are located west of Bend in the Cascade Mountains and take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes to reach from town.
This handy guide from Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife highlights 50 fishing opportunities within 90 minutes of Bend.
With so many epic lakes to fish so close to Bend, there are a few things you should remember as you plan your lake fishing trip.
And above all, let’s enjoy ourselves and foster a friendly and respectful atmosphere on the water!
May 29, 2024
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