News briefLake levels · Oregon
Detroit Lake down 18 ft in 29 days
Down 18 ft in a month, Detroit Lake is reshaping its banks.
Detroit Lake reads 1,477.0 ft, 18 ft lower than 29 days ago. That changes the launch and the spots.
The best bet right now: trout. Near the surface and along shorelines.
Why it matters
A falling lake pulls fish off the banks toward points and channel edges, exposes hazards, and can leave the shallow end of a ramp in the mud. Late fall in the North is the last open-water stretch.
With about 3,500 acres and roughly 32 miles of shoreline at full pool, Detroit Lake is a lot of water to cover. At its deepest the lake reaches around 440 ft.
The fish
Expect trout on Detroit Lake to be a solid pick. Trout are comfortable in the 50s and cruise shallow, so shore anglers get their best shot. Kokanee salmon are a fair bet. Kokanee trolling is good in cool water near the surface.
Know before you go
- Go Thursday, 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm: the best-rated bite day (good).
- Start at the point drop-off on the map: use spinner or spoon, troll slowly.
- Wear the life jacket: 50°F water takes your breath away if you fall in.
One spot to try
The marked spot on Detroit Lake is a point drop-off. The bottom falls away fast off this point; fish rest deep and move up the slope to feed. It suits trout and kokanee; try spinner or spoon, troll slowly.
Detroit Lake today Plan a trip
Detroit Lake every morning
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