Willow Lake, Oregon: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  The Gilliam County entry here is Willow Lake, in Oregon. Elevation runs to 253 feet. With some 174 acres of water, there is room for a boat but no need of one. There is roughly 3.2 miles of bank, more than one visit can cover properly. For a base, Boardman sits 15 miles out. Irrigon is 26 miles away, with Mabton at 30 miles. No county line comes close, which keeps the paperwork simple.

• Where to Fish on Willow Lake

  Depth is not on record here, so the bank has to tell you. Standing timber shows when the level drops, and fish sit against it. Look for where the old bank line still shows under the surface. At Willow Lake the first feature you find is worth twenty minutes. In coloured water, fish close in and use something they can find.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Typical July readings run about 75°F; by January the average is down near 34°F. The season stretches long at both ends here. It is not guaranteed even in a cold spell, so check yourself. Late winter often fishes better here than midsummer does. Willow Lake fishes to that pattern most years.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing on record says whether the bank is open or closed. This sits inside Willow Creek Wildlife Area, so read the reserve notices first. Rules differ from one water to the next round here. Some stretches are reserved and marked as such on the ground. If the gate is shut, Carty Reservoir at 12 miles is the nearest alternative. Nothing here settles the position at Willow Lake for certain.