Guide To Great Trout Fishing Locations In Oregon

All about fishing for rainbow, cutthroat, brook, brown, golden and lake trout in local lakes and streams.

Oregon is a paradise for trout fishing enthusiasts, with a variety of trout species and abundant fishing opportunities in its lakes and rivers. Anglers can target multiple trout species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout, and cutthroat trout, offering a diverse and thrilling fishing experience.

Rainbow trout, known for their vibrant colors and acrobatic leaps, are one of the most popular trout species in Oregon. They can be found in numerous lakes and rivers throughout the state. Some renowned rainbow trout fisheries include the Deschutes River, McKenzie River, and the Metolius River. Oregon's rivers and lakes are often stocked with rainbow trout, ensuring a consistent and exciting fishing experience.

Brown trout, another prized species, are known for their elusive nature and challenging behavior. They are often found in rivers and lakes with cooler water temperatures. The Deschutes River, Crooked River, and the Williamson River are renowned for their brown trout populations. Brown trout can be caught using a variety of techniques, including fly fishing, bait fishing, or lure fishing.

Brook trout, with their beautiful colors and willingness to bite, are a favorite among anglers seeking a unique trout fishing experience. They are often found in small, remote streams and alpine lakes. Anglers can enjoy the solitude of the wilderness while pursuing these feisty fish. Several high-elevation lakes in the Cascade Range, such as Timothy Lake and Trillium Lake, offer excellent brook trout fishing opportunities.

Cutthroat trout, with their distinctive red or orange slashes on their throats, can be found in Oregon's coastal streams, rivers, and lakes. These native trout species provide an exciting challenge for anglers. The Nestucca River, North Umpqua River, and the Rogue River are renowned for their cutthroat trout fisheries.

Oregon boasts impressive trout fishing records, showcasing the size and quality of trout that can be caught in its waters. These records highlight the potential for trophy-sized catches. Anglers are encouraged to practice catch-and-release to preserve the health and longevity of the trout populations.

Whether you prefer fishing in scenic rivers, remote streams, or pristine lakes, Oregon's trout fishing opportunities are abundant. The state's diverse trout species, picturesque landscapes, and pristine waters make it a trout fishing destination that appeals to anglers of all skill levels.

Trout Waters

It's hard to drive anywhere in Oregon without seeing trout waters. Most rivers, streams, creeks and ponds contain trout. The major lakes with good trout fishing include Agency Lake, Aspen Lake, Beulah Reservoir, Bluejoint Lake, Brownlee Reservoir, Crane Prairie Reservoir, Crater Lake, Crescent Lake, Davis Lake, Detroit Lake, Diamond Lake, Drews Reservoir, Green Peter Lake, Hart Lake, Lake Billy Chinook, Lake Owyhee, Odell Lake, Phillips Lake, Prineville Reservoir, Siltcoos Lake, Tahkenitch Lake, Tenmile Lakes, Upper Klamath Lake, Waldo Lake, Warm Springs Reservoir and Wickiup Reservoir. Many of these lakes offer ice fishing for trout once the ice is safe.

Click the images and links above for species details.

Select the best trout lures and baits

Trout spinners, crankbaits and jerkbaits work well for shallow, reasonably active fish. Salmon eggs, worms and prepared baits will work at virtually all depths.

Oregon State Record Trout

The state record rainbow trout was caught from the Rogue River.

The state record cutthroat trout was taken out of the Malheur River.

The state record brook trout was taken out of the Deschutes River.

The state record brown trout came from Paulina Lake.

The state record bull trout was caught in Lake Billy Chinook.

The state record golden trout was caught in Eagle Cap Wilderness.

The state record lake trout was caught in Odell Lake.

The state record steelhead trout was caught in the Columbia River.

Watch trout fishing videos to see trout anglers in action.

Additional trout information

The 5 primary trouts are the rainbow, brook, brown, cutthroat and lake trout. Browns are considered the most difficult to catch and brookies are the easiest. Pure cold water is key to survival of the trouts.

Visit the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife for information about trout stockings in Oregon.

Trout Conservation
Trout Unlimited

Trout locations and info, by state.