Launching boats will then no longer be possible until sometime after refilling begins this winter


by OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff
9-6-2023
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The water level has dropped down even further and will be below the toe-slope of the Thistle Creek boat ramp by Sept. 8. Launching boats will then no longer be possible until sometime after refilling begins this winter. For the latest information on water levels at Green Peter Reservoir check with the Army Corps of Engineers' website for more information. ‌

This large reservoir gets stocked annually with 20,000 hatchery trout. It was stocked most recently in May with about 2,800 hatchery trout. Look for them in cooler, deeper water and around ledges, drop-offs, and underwater structure. Trout can be active year-round, but right now anglers may want to troll and retrieve a little slower than normal. Good places to find trout are near the creek and river mouths, where food brought down with the flowing water enters the reservoir.‌

Smallmouth bass also like to hang out near underwater structure and tend to be found in shallower water. Also look for them near rocky outcrops. Recent fishing reports are that the bass fishing is good with fish weighing in around 5 lbs being caught.‌

Kokanee anglers may keep up to 25 fish per day in addition to the 5-trout bag limit. Anglers are reportedly catching bigger kokanee than year. Most fish seem to be between 11-13 inches. Most are being found 50 feet below the surface. Best times for catching them is April through July, but anglers may fish year-round. ‌

Best bet for anglers without a boat is to drive to the top of the reservoir where Quartzville Creek enters the reservoir. Large trout will sometimes forage where the river brings in food swept down from upstream.