Fishing Rufener Reservoir in Washington County, Oregon

• Overview

  Oregon holds Rufener Reservoir, in Washington County. This is pine and hardwood country. About 3 acres of surface, which puts the far bank inside easy sight. It is low-lying compared with other Oregon water we list. Start from Banks, 1.7 miles down the road. After that come North Plains at 4.3 miles and Cornelius at 6.8 miles. The nearest boundary is a fair way off.

• Where to Fish on Rufener Reservoir

  Depth figures are not published for this one. Points where the flooded channel swings in are the reliable ones. The arms fish better than the open middle whenever the water is up. County-wide records name common carp, yellow perch, brown bullhead and largemouth bass. The list covers the county rather than this water alone, so treat it as a guide. Fish Rufener Reservoir to its features, not to its size.

• Seasonal Patterns

  On the long-term average, August reads 65°F and December reads 39°F. Temperatures stay workable through the cold season. October and November give a second good stretch as it cools. March through May is the strongest run, with October and November a second stretch. Rufener Reservoir runs to that rhythm year in and year out.

• Tackle & Baits

  The paperwork position is blank for this one. The car has to stay 0.9 miles away, which shapes how much tackle you bring. Bass water: a Texas-rigged worm near cover, a spinnerbait when you need to cover ground. Look for a notice board at the entrance. Fishing rules and camping rules are set separately here. Failing this one, try Hartwick Reservoir, 3.2 miles away. Where Rufener Reservoir is concerned, a local answer beats a written one.