Carlton Reservoir in Yamhill County: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  Carlton Reservoir lies within the bounds of Yamhill County, Oregon. Land around it is farm and woodlot. Surface area runs to about 4 acres — small enough to read in one session. The closest town, Yamhill, is 8.4 miles away. Carlton is 8.5 miles and McMinnville 9.9 miles. It sits well inside the county, so one set of rules covers it.

• Where to Fish on Carlton Reservoir

  Depth here is unknown, so count the lead down before committing. The old creek line under the surface is the feature worth finding. Draw-down through summer strips the margins, so follow the water out. Yamhill County records list largemouth bass, bluegill and white crappie among the fish reported. Species recorded across the county may be limited to a few waters. Read Carlton Reservoir before you fish it and the day goes better.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Typical August readings run about 61°F; by December the average is down near 38°F. The season stretches long at both ends here. It is not guaranteed even in a cold spell, so check yourself. The hot months push the fishing to dawn and dusk. At Carlton Reservoir the season follows that pattern closely.

• Tackle & Baits

  Public sources are silent on who controls the bank. Mapping shows an empty shoreline: no ramp, no jetty, no marked entry. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. State or provincial rules still apply whatever the bank status. Some water is controlled locally without a sign saying so. Von Reservoir sits 1.4 miles off and takes the overflow. None of that is settled for Carlton Reservoir in what we hold.