Big Lake near Sisters: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  Look for Big Lake in Deschutes County, Oregon. The ground round it is open valley. It measures about 242 acres, which is a comfortable size for bank fishing. The perimeter runs near 3.3 miles, so plan the walk before you start. It ranks high for size among our Deschutes County listings. The nearest place of any size is Sisters, 17 miles away. It is 64 miles to Eugene, the nearest city. It sits well inside its county, with no border complications.

• Where to Fish on Big Lake

  There is no published depth for this one, so start shallow and work out. Where the bottom changes texture, fish gather; find that line. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. Reported across Deschutes County: rainbow trout, brook trout and mountain whitefish. Some of the species recorded here are protected or tightly regulated, so check what may be targeted before you fish. Fish Big Lake to its features, not to its size.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Typical August readings run about 57°F; by December the average is down near 28°F. Ice comes and goes from one year to the next. It is not guaranteed even in a cold spell, so check yourself. March through May is the strongest run, with October and November a second stretch. Expect Big Lake to follow that timing.

• Tackle & Baits

  Public sources are silent on who controls the bank. No dam controls it, and the level follows the season. A boat ramp sits about half a mile from the water. There is recorded parking some half a mile off. A platform or pier sits within half a mile. There is a campsite half a mile from the water. Mapping records toilets within half a mile. Some banks are open only from a marked point. Where the way in crosses private ground, ask first. Patjens Lakes sits 1.7 miles off and takes the overflow. Check the position on Big Lake before loading the car.