How to Fish: Crane Prairie Reservoir

THE RESERVOIR

Overview

Species: Rainbow Trout
Best Months: Late spring through fall
Fishing Style: Boat & float tube

Crane Prairie Reservoir is famous for its ‘Cranebows,’ thick, hard fighting rainbow trout that grow fat on the reservoir’s rich insect life, along with brook trout, kokanee, and largemouth bass. Flooded timber and old river channels (the Deschutes, Cultus, and Quinn arms) create a maze of structure that holds fish throughout the season.

It’s one of the premier stillwater trout fisheries in the state.

Techniques

A boat, pontoon, or float tube opens up the reservoir; learn the old river channels and fish the drop-offs and weed lines where trout cruise. Indicator chironomid fishing and slow-stripped leeches are the dominant methods. Confirm current ODFW regulations and any boating and launch rules before you go. New to stillwater tactics? A guided day on Crane is the fastest way to crack the chironomid game.