Oleys Lake near Sunnyside: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  Oleys Lake lies within the bounds of Yakima County, Washington. The bank is 686 feet above sea level. Small at around 8 acres: two anglers spread out cover most of it. Sunnyside at 3.4 miles is the nearest place to stop. Tri-Cities is the closest city, 38 miles away. A county boundary sits nearby, which can matter for local access rules.

• Where to Fish on Oleys Lake

  The records we hold are silent on depth, so plan to find it yourself. The productive water is a rod length or two out, not a hundred. Where the bottom changes texture, fish gather; find that line. Species logged across Yakima County include rainbow trout, pumpkinseed, mountain whitefish and cutthroat trout. The list covers the county rather than this water alone, so treat it as a guide. At Oleys Lake light and wind decide more than tackle does.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Averages here run 71°F at the top of summer and 32°F at the bottom of winter. The year turns gently, without extremes at either end. In a normal year the cover is thin and short-lived. June to September is hot work, so the first and last hours are what count. It holds true on Oleys Lake more years than not.

• Tackle & Baits

  The rules here are undocumented as far as public sources go. Public mapping records no formal access here, so plan for a walk and soft ground. Largemouth respond to soft plastics tight to cover; go weedless where the growth is heavy. Read any posted signs at the access point rather than assuming. Access can change hands, so last year's answer may not hold. The nearest alternative is Bridgeman Pond, 2.5 miles out. For Oleys Lake in particular, ask before you travel.