Vintage

Fishing at Wallowa Lake is a popular pastime that is an enjoyable and usually productive experience.  Whether you fish from a boat or from shore seems to make no difference- if all you want to do is catch fish.

For three years running, ending in 2002, State Kokanee Records have been caught right here in Wallowa Lake (6.7 pounds and 26").  That State Record still stands and if your into big fish, an incredible 38 pound Mackinaw has been caught here as well!

2009 was a great kokanee season with one more state record caught..  On July 19th a 7.085 pound 27 inch was landed.

Fishing for Kokanee or Mackinaw really requires a boat as trolling is the most productive method. Come see us and we can fix you up with the right gear. The hottest time for Kokanee is around Mothers Day, and usually runs till mid-June. Trolling at a depth of 60' or more with flashers and wedding rings seems to work best for Kokanee. In the last couple of years the Kokanee have grown smaller, this is a normal cyclical occurrence and that cycle is now set to turn.

Fishing for trout is usually excellent anywhere within 50 yards of the shore. Because most all of the west shore is private, accessing that area will require a boat or canoe, but some of the best trout fishing is on northwest shore, particularly if fishing with flys. A good spot to try is on the north end near the dam.  Another good place to park and access the shore is along the southeast side- you'll see a road there that ducks down and runs parallel to the highway on the lake side. Getting to the shore from there is short, but steep and slippery, not the best access for anyone but the fit.  It's a good spot with plenty of good sitting rocks and the trout fishing can be very good. The traditional spot is at the lake inlet and is always another safe bet. Power Bait, worms or eggs seem to do the best for trout. Try using a light spinning rod with a bobber and about 30" of line under it. Place a small piece of splitshot up about 9" from the hook. Bait up and let the fun begin!

Wallowa Lake is stocked with approximately 42,000 trout throughout the season including some 18"-20" 'Trophy Trout'

Check the 'Handy Links' on the left for more information.

2009 Limits:

• 5 trout per day, including rainbow and lake trout (Mackinaw), with no size limits.
• 10 kokanee per day, no minimum length and no more than 5 over 12 inches in length.
• All bull trout must be released unharmed.