Getting There: Ochoco Reservoir is located in Crook County, 6 miles east of Prineville on Hwy 26.

Fisheries: Provides opportunities for stocked rainbow trout and native redband trout, and warmwater fish including black crappie, largemouth bass and brown bullhead. The trout fishery is supported by a combination of natural production and through annual stocking of 25,000 fingerling trout. Trout angling is available year-round. Most shoreline angling occurs within the county park or near the dam. Crappie angling is popular during spring and summer months; target shoreline areas near structure such as downed logs and rocky areas.

Useful Information: Trout angling is good throughout the year. Most fish are located near the shoreline except during the summer months when warm water sends trout to the deeper water near the dam and southwest shoreline. Bullhead angling is best in April-May in the shallow water at the east end of the reservoir.

Tackle & Techniques: Bank anglers targeting trout are most effective using bait (worms, PowerBait, corn, etc.) Boat anglers are effective either fishing bait or trolling lures such as Rooster Tails. Jigging in shoreline areas with some cover is the most effective means of catching crappie. Anglers targeting bullhead should fish with bait on the bottom at the east end of the reservoir.

Facilities: Public access to the reservoir is primarily via Ochoco Lake County Park on the north shore on Hwy 26. There is a public boat ramp at the park and overnight camping facilities. Lakeshore Lodge, on the north shore, has small boats available for rent. There is a 10 mph speed limit in the upper one-third of the reservoir.

Nearby State Park: Prineville Reservoir State Park.

For More Information:
ODFW Deschutes Watershed District Office — (541) 388-6363
Crook County Parks and Recreation District — (541) 447-1209