Nelson Reservoir, Oregon: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  Nelson Reservoir is a Jackson County water, Oregon side. Pine and hardwood runs right down to the water. Surface area runs to about 2 acres — small enough to read in one session. Most waters listed here for Jackson County are larger. The closest town, White City, is 4.8 miles distant. Medford is 4.9 miles and Central Point 5.8 miles. No boundary runs near, so the county rules hold throughout.

• Where to Fish on Nelson Reservoir

  There is no published depth for this one, so start shallow and work out. Bays and points beat straight shoreline every time on water like this. The shallow end warms first and pulls fish in ahead of the rest. Fish documented in Jackson County include rainbow trout, black crappie and largemouth bass. Some of the species recorded here are protected or tightly regulated, so check what may be targeted before you fish. The shape of Nelson Reservoir decides where the fish sit.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Expect July to average close to 71°F, with December the cold end at about 38°F. The year never really closes; it just gets uncomfortable in summer. Late winter and spring fish steadiest here. Autumn steadies things again once the heat lets go. That shapes the year on Nelson Reservoir.

• Tackle & Baits

  We have no record of the rules that apply on this bank. Nothing formal is recorded here: no ramp, no car park, no marked path. For the bass here, soft plastics worked slow along cover and a spinnerbait for searching do most of the work. Take the rules with you rather than trusting memory. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. For a change of water, Agate Reservoir is 3.1 miles distant. The position on Nelson Reservoir is worth confirming on the day.