Best trout fishing spots near Eugene, Oregon
Comprehensive guide to best trout fishing hotspots – with seasonal tips, gear suggestions, and local insights.
1. McKenzie River
- One of Oregon’s best trout streams, flowing through Eugene and Springfield with wild rainbow, cutthroat, and stocked trout
- Prime access at Armitage Park, Hayden Bridge, Hendricks Bridge, and Deerhorn—boating or bank fishing are both popular
- Local report: “The river has a blue ribbon fishery… McKenzie redside rainbows”
2. Willamette River (Eugene–Springfield stretch)
- Offers wild trout along with Chinook and summer steelhead
- Easy access at Alton Baker Park, Island Park, Beltline Landing, and the Ruth Bascom Riverbank Path
- Techniques: float rigs, spinners, dry flies, and nymphs
3. Clear Lake (McKenzie headwaters)
- A crystal-clear, stocked lake near McKenzie Pass, ideal for rainbow and brook trout
- Boat rentals and bank access via Clear Lake Resort and campground
- Use standard lake techniques—trollers, spinners, PowerBait.
4. Leaburg Lake (McKenzie River impoundment)
- A small (40-acre) reservoir regularly stocked with rainbows
- Access from Hwy 126; bank fishing and boat launch available
- Great for simple lake trout tactics.
5. Fall Creek & Fall Creek Reservoir
- Stocked with rainbows and occasional steelhead or Chinook
- Access via Big Fall Creek Road, with bridges and pull-outs for casting
- Amenities include restrooms, picnic, and boat ramp.
6. Hills Creek Reservoir
- Near Oakridge on Middle Fork Willamette, stocked rainbow trout plus cutthroat and landlocked Chinook .
- Trolling is a popular method, especially in upper sections and coves .
7. Salmon Creek (near Oakridge)
- A mid-elevation creek stocked annually, with wild trout too .
- Bank access from USFS sites; good for fly fishing and small spinners .
8. Donaca Lake (Middle Santiam Wilderness)
- A small high-elevation lake of about 3 acres, home to cutthroat trout 8–12” in length .
- Requires a hike-in; catch-and-release is encouraged.
9. Fern Ridge Reservoir
- A large reservoir (~9,360 acres) west of Eugene known mostly for bass and panfish, but trout can be found .
- Use small spoons or PowerBait near coves and inlets.
Seasonal & Tactical Highlights
| Season | Best Spots | Recommended Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | McKenzie River (Lower), Clear, Leaburg, Fall Creek | Dry flies, nymphs, PowerBait - match the hatch |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | McKenzie (Upper), Clear, Donaca | Streamers, small spinners in pools with shade |
| Fall (Sept–Oct) | Fall Creek Reservoir, McKenzie tailwaters | Troll spoons/flasher, drift streamers |
| Winter (Nov–Feb) | Fall Creek, small ponds/reservoir edges | PowerBait, worms under bobbers; bank anglers preferred |
Quick Tips Before You Go
- License & Regulations: A valid Oregon fishing license is required, plus a Trout Endorsement if necessary. Check bag limits and seasonal rules on ODFW .
- Gear: Bring a 4–6 wt fly rod for rivers, plus light spinning gear (4–8 lb test) for lakes.
- Baits & Flies: Use small drys/nymphs, PowerBait, spoons, and spinner lures.
- Timing: Morning and evening are prime in summer; entire day works well in spring/fall.
- Access & Amenities: Most spots offer boat ramps, restrooms, and picnic areas—ideal for families.