Fly East Angling Adventures
Mt. Hood National Forest offers some of Oregon's most spectacular fly fishing opportunities close to the Portland Metro region, with pristine alpine lakes and rushing rivers nestled among towering evergreens. Whether you're a beginner or experienced angler, these locations provide excellent fishing throughout the season. Let's explore the best spots to cast your line in this Pacific Northwest paradise.
In this blog post we highlight some of our favorite fly fishing locales opening soon that will provide unigue and rewarding adventures. Whether you are looking to explore with a DIY trip, need to rent float tubes/fins, or would like us to teach you all we know on one of our Fly East Fly Fishing Adventures, our shop is here to help!
Frog Lake
Situated at 3,800 feet elevation, Frog Lake is a serene 11-acre gem perfect for fly fishing enthusiasts. The lake is seasonally stocked with approximately 6,000 rainbow trout, including several hundred trophy-sized fish and prized brood trout. Best fishing occurs in May and June after stocking, with productive early morning and evening sessions. The lake's shallow waters make it ideal for dry fly fishing and nymph presentations. A campground on the north end provides convenient access for multi-day fishing adventures.
Clear Lake
Clear Lake stands out as one of Mt. Hood National Forest's premier fly fishing destinations. This crystal-clear body of water offers excellent visibility for sight-fishing opportunities. The lake supports a healthy population of rainbow trout and is one of the few lakes in the forest where motorized boats are permitted. Anglers find success using traditional patterns like Woolly Buggers and Callibaetis imitations, particularly during summer months when insect hatches are abundant.
Trillium Lake
Trillium Lake is arguably the most scenic fly fishing destination in Mt. Hood National Forest, offering stunning views of Mt. Hood as your backdrop. This popular lake features excellent bank access, a fishing dock, and a boat ramp. Productive patterns include Woolly Bugger #8, Gold Ribbed Hare's Ear nymph #12, and Callibaetis nymph #16. The lake's consistent trout population and easy access make it perfect for beginners and families.
Lake Harriet
Lake Harriet provides a more secluded fly fishing experience away from the crowds. This reservoir offers excellent opportunities for catching rainbow trout throughout the season. The lake's deeper waters require different techniques than shallower alpine lakes, with sinking lines and streamer patterns proving particularly effective during summer months.
Lake Timothy
Lake Timothy offers fly anglers a peaceful setting with consistent action for rainbow trout. The lake features good bank access and a campground for extended stays. Morning and evening hours typically provide the best fishing, with chironomid patterns and small leech imitations producing consistent results.
Rock Creek Reservoir
Rock Creek Reservoir presents unique fly fishing opportunities with its varied structure and depth. The reservoir holds a healthy population of trout and offers both shallow and deep-water fishing opportunities. Anglers should focus on inlet areas and structure during early morning and evening hours.
Oak Grove Fork of the Clackamas River
This tributary of the Clackamas River offers excellent stream fishing opportunities for wild trout. The Oak Grove Fork features pocket water, riffles, and pools that hold fish throughout the season. Small dry flies and nymphs work well here, with special attention to matching the current insect hatches.
Salmon River
The Salmon River provides excellent fly fishing opportunities for both resident trout and seasonal steelhead. This river offers diverse fishing environments, from fast-moving pocket water to deeper pools. Focus on using stonefly nymphs and streamers during higher water conditions, switching to dry flies during summer months.
Badger Creek
Badger Creek offers intimate small-stream fly fishing opportunities. This creek holds a population of native trout and requires stealth and precise presentation. Small dry flies and nymphs work well here, with best results during morning and evening hours.
Mt. Hood National Forest's diverse waterways offer something for every fly angler. From alpine lakes to tumbling streams, these nine locations provide year-round opportunities to practice your craft. Remember to check local regulations and obtain necessary permits before fishing.
Ready to explore these amazing fly fishing destinations? Visit our shop for local fly patterns, gear recommendations, and up-to-date fishing reports for Mt. Hood National Forest waters.
Let Us Be Your Mt. Hood Guide
Feel you're not ready to brave the wilds of these magnificent high cascade locations alone? Looking to gain a better knowledge of these areas, the hatches, and the methods for having success?
We are proud to be the only licensed fly fishing outfitter able to provide you with a truly unique fly fishing guide experience with our Fly East Angling Adventures. These guide trips are for people of all skill levels and we will teach you how to approach this forest as an seasoned angler.