Fishing Davis Lake

AKA: East Davis Lake Campground

Popular Fish Species
Davis Lake Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Local Fishing Guides
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Davis Lake, OR

Popular Fish Species Davis Lake, OR

Rainbow Trout Fishing

Fishing for quality rainbow trout at Davis Lake can be effective using worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic prey. Fish in the 2- to 5-pound range are caught frequently, with even larger fish caught occasionally. Use the lightest fishing line for the best possible results, based on conditions. Annual stocking by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife has helped to maintain a good population of rainbow trout. While fishing from a boat is often the preferred method, plenty of trout are caught here by anglers fishing from the bank. Additionally, floating or sinking flies, such as nymphs, streamers, or dry flies, are popular choices for fly anglers targeting rainbow trout. Trolling with lures or flies behind a boat, casting near shoreline structures, or still fishing with bait can all yield success. Adjusting lure size, color, and retrieve speed can enhance chances of enticing these colorful and spirited fish.

Davis Lake Popular Fish - Largemouth Bass

Largemouth Bass Fishing

Davis Lake is considered a good bass fishing lake by locals and tournament anglers alike. While fishing success can vary day to day, overall it's a good bass lake. Fishing for bass can be quite rewarding, with an occasional bass over 4 pounds being caught. Bass often move shallow and become aggressive when they are in a feeding mood. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, drop shot rigs, big worms, jigs and spoons are good options. In winter, spend your time fishing deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time

Black Crappie Fishing

A nice population of black crappie resides in Davis Lake. Crappie tend to run in schools, and once a school is located, there is a good chance for catching significant numbers. Crappie fishing is easy and requires simple, basic gear. Virtually any fishing pole, reasonably small line and crappie jigs or small hooks baited with live bait, creates the ideal setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to maintain. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. Because crappie prefer cover and structure, locate brush and vegetation in appropriate water depths. Using a fish finder can help locate schools of crappie, which tend to stack vertically around cover. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels in deeper water.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass and rainbow trout at Davis Lake in Oregon.

Davis Lake Fishing Video

One of the top fly fishing only lakes in the Pacific Northwest, Davis Lake is a 3,000-acre lake in the west-central part of the state, 8 miles west of Gilchrist. Big rainbow trout are the primary draw here, but bass anglers can get the thrill of catching largemouth bass on a fly rod as well.

Nestled in the Cascade Mountains of Central Oregon, Davis Lake is a scenic destination that offers anglers a rewarding fishing experience. Known for its productive fishery and tranquil surroundings, Davis Lake attracts anglers seeking a peaceful escape and the opportunity to catch a variety of fish species.

One of the most popular fish species in Davis Lake is the rainbow trout. The lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout, ensuring a healthy population for anglers to target. Rainbow trout in Davis Lake can grow to impressive sizes, providing an exciting challenge for anglers. Fly fishing with nymphs, dry flies, or streamers is a popular technique, while spinners and bait can also be effective in enticing strikes from these beautiful fish.

Davis Lake is also home to brook trout, another prized species among anglers. Brook trout can be found in various sections of the lake, particularly near the inlets and outlets. These colorful fish are known for their aggressive strikes and are often caught using similar techniques as rainbow trout. Fly fishing with small streamers or casting spinners and spoons can yield success when targeting brook trout in Davis Lake.

Before embarking on a fishing trip to Davis Lake, anglers should familiarize themselves with the local fishing regulations, including size and bag limits, as well as any specific rules for the area. It is important to respect these regulations to help maintain the health and sustainability of the fishery for future generations.

Davis Lake in Oregon offers anglers a serene fishing experience in a picturesque setting. Whether you're targeting rainbow trout, brook trout, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the lake, Davis Lake provides a memorable fishing adventure in the heart of Central Oregon's natural splendor.

There are boat launches at East Davis and Lava Flow areas. Canoes, kayaks and motorized boats are allowed, however boat speed is limited to 10 mph. Many areas along over eight miles of shoreline are accessible for bank fishing or fishing from a tube. Heavy snow, with no plowing, makes the lake inaccessible in winter.

Primary fish species residing in Davis Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Davis Lake Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: NO
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: NEARBY

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a popular activity on Davis Lake, allowing anglers to explore its serene waters and access prime fishing spots. Motorboats, canoes, and kayaks are all permitted on the lake, providing anglers with the opportunity to navigate different areas and find their preferred fishing locations. It is important to adhere to boating regulations, such as speed limits and safety requirements, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

East Davis Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off NF 850 Road, this is an earthen launch area, with earthen parking.

Lava Flow Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off NF 855 Road, this is an earthen launch area, with earthen parking.

Fishing Guides On Davis Lake

Dillard Guided Fishing - trout, bass

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

Fishing License

Click here for a Oregon Fishing License.

Camping facilities are available near Davis Lake, offering anglers the chance to extend their fishing trips and fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. Campgrounds provide convenient access to the lake, allowing anglers to maximize their fishing time and enjoy peaceful evenings under the stars.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

East Davis Lake Campground - 541 383-5300