The reservoir was stocked several times this fall. Currently the reservoir water looks unusually turbid. This is due to sediment erosion caused by the drawdown at Green Peter Reservoir further upstream. Fishing may be affected for a while because fish may not be able to see lures from a distance. Turbidity is expected to decrease over the next few months. ‌

This reservoir near Sweet Home is usually stocked several times in the spring and early fall with over 28,000 hatchery trout. Besides trout, look for smallmouth bass and yellow perch near underwater structure and drop-offs. Please remember that only kokanee and adipose fin-clipped trout may be kept as part of the trout bag limit, but there are no limits on size or number of bass.‌

Retention of warmwater fish species such as bluegill, catfish, crappie, and yellow perch is also allowed -- no limit on size or number. Anglers report good success in the two arms of the reservoir, as well as the shoreline in between. Fishing is best when light levels are low, either early morning or late evening.‌

The reservoir water level has gone back in recent days to capture the recent heavy rains and prevent downstream flooding. Your best bet to launch boats remains Sunnyside County Park which is open year-round.‌

This scenic 1,200-acre reservoir on the South Santiam River is located just 30 minutes from Interstate 5. There is good bank access at several rest stops and campgrounds, and three seasonal boat ramps.