Discover the Excitement of Fishing at Prineville Reservoir

Trip Report & Photos Contributed by James Reeher—Tumalo Creek Fishing Team

Prineville Reservoir is a top choice if you’re looking for an exciting kayak fishing destination. Known for its abundant crappie and bass, this reservoir offers fantastic fishing opportunities, especially as the weather warms. June is the perfect time to plan your trip and target these popular fish.

Year-Round Access and Convenient Ramps

Prineville Reservoir is open all year and features excellent access points. With three Oregon state parks boasting paved boat ramps and several other areas with more primitive ramps, you’ll have no trouble getting on the water. Best of all, there are no fees for using the ramps or day-use areas, making it an affordable fishing destination.

Boat launching is available at the following locations: Crook County Boat Ramp (US Bureau of Reclamation), Jasper Point (state), Powderhouse Cove (US Bureau of Reclamation), Prineville Reservoir Resort (private), Prineville Reservoir State Park (state), and Roberts Bay East (US Bureau of Reclamation).

Targeting Trout, Bass, and Crappie

While Prineville Reservoir has a good trout population, bass and crappie are the real stars here. These fish prefer warmer water and structure, making the reservoir’s coves, rocky areas, and brush piles prime fishing spots. For the best results, focus your efforts in areas where the water is out of the main current.

Fishing Tips

Fly fishing is an effective and enjoyable way to catch bass and crappie at Prineville Reservoir. Using a 3-5 wt fly rod, try fishing a dark-colored balanced leech under an indicator. If you prefer casting and retrieving, cast right next to the brush pile or structure and slowly strip the fly in. An intermediate sink line is ideal for this technique. Both methods are proven to catch plenty of fish.

Impressive fish sizes await! Most crappie at Prineville Reservoir measure around nine inches, but some grow to over 13 inches. Rumor has it that some even exceed 14 inches! Bass typically average around 13 inches and are impressively fat and healthy, making for a thrilling fishing experience.

The bass and crappie fishery at Prineville Reservoir is a fantastic way to introduce kids to fishing. And if you’re just a kid at heart, you’ll find plenty of excitement here as well. Whether you’re new to fishing or a seasoned angler, Prineville Reservoir won’t disappoint.

Equip Yourself for Fishing Success

To maximize your fishing adventure, make sure you have the right gear. Visit Tumalo Creek Kayak and Canoe in Bend to find top-quality boats from Hobie, Feelfree, Moken, Aquaglide, and more—perfect for your fishing trips. Our expert staff can help you choose the best equipment to enhance your experience on Prineville Reservoir and beyond.

Hope to see you on the water soon!