Elk Lake, OR
Elk Lake: Is located in the Cascade Range of central Oregon, southwest of Bend.
Size: It covers an area of about 405 acres.
Fish Species: The lake is known for its population of Kokanee salmon, rainbow trout, and brook trout.
Most Fished-for Fish: Anglers often target Kokanee salmon and rainbow trout.
Fishing for Kokanee salmon at Elk Lake, Oregon can be both fun and productive if you use the right techniques. Here are some tips to help you catch Kokanee successfully:
Best Time to Fish Season: Late spring through early fall (May to September) is best.
Time of Day: Early morning (dawn) and late evening are peak feeding times.
Water Temperature: Kokanee prefer 53–57°F. They'll move deeper as the surface warms in summer.
Where to Fish Depth: In early season, fish 10–20 feet deep. By midsummer, they may be 30–60 feet deep.
Locations: Troll the deeper center of Elk Lake or just off drop-offs near the boat ramp or western shoreline.
Trolling Techniques Downriggers are ideal for precise depth control.
Use a dodger or flasher to attract fish, followed by a short leader (10–16") and your lure.
Best Gear and Setup Rods: Light-action rods with good sensitivity.
Reels: Line counter reels help track trolling depth.
Line: 8–12 lb fluorocarbon or monofilament.
Top Lures & Baits Lures:
Wedding Ring spinner (red, pink, or orange)
Kokanee Cut Plug
Kokanee Killer
Hoochie skirts
Attractants:
Add scent: garlic, anise, or shrimp-flavored attractants work well.
Bait:
Tipped corn (white shoepeg corn) soaked in scent.
Gulp! Maggots (optional) can boost success.
Tips for Success Speed: Troll slowly—1.0 to 1.5 mph.
Color: Match color to water clarity. Bright colors (pink, orange) in clear water; darker or UV-reflective colors in stained water.
Depth Adjustments: If not getting bites, adjust your depth by 5–10 feet up or down every 20–30 minutes.
Shore Fishing? Elk Lake is better suited to boat fishing for Kokanee, as they tend to school in deeper water. If you’re limited to shore, try fishing early or late with a slip bobber and bait, but results may vary.
Camping: There are several campgrounds around Elk Lake, offering both tent and RV camping options.
Hiking: The area around Elk Lake has some fantastic hiking trails, including routes that lead to nearby mountains and scenic viewpoints.
Here are some notable trails in the Elk Lake area:
Elk Lake Trail Deschutes National Forest, OR A 4.7-mile out-and-back trail near Bend, considered an easy route, taking approximately 1.5 hours to complete. Suitable for hikers of all levels.
AllTrails.com = Great site nation wide.
Elk-Devils Trail Deschutes National Forest, OR
Provides access to the Three Sisters Wilderness, connecting to the Wickiup Plains Trail. Popular for hiking and horseback riding. US Forest Service
Island Meadow Trail Deschutes National Forest, OR A 3.2 km trail offering scenic views and access to alpine meadows. Suitable for hikers seeking a moderate challenge.
Hiiker----
Green Lake Trail --- Deschutes National Forest, OR: An easy 4.76-mile trail with moderate elevation gain, following a river with waterfalls and ending at a picturesque alpine lake.
Wikiloc | Trails of the World
Elk Lake Creek Trail: Bull of the Woods Wilderness, OR An 8.9-mile trail following Elk Lake Creek through old-growth forests, leading to Elk Lake. Ideal for experienced hikers seeking solitude. Oregon Hikers
Elk Lake Creek and Welcome Lakes Loop Willamette National Forest, OR An 18.3-mile challenging loop trail near Detroit, Oregon, taking approximately 9 hours and 48 minutes to complete. Suitable for seasoned hikers. AllTrails.com These trails offer a range of experiences, from leisurely walks to challenging hikes, all set against the stunning backdrop of Oregon's wilderness. Whether you're seeking panoramic mountain views, serene lakes, or lush forests, Elk Lake's trail network has something to offer every outdoor enthusiast.
Boating: Non-motorized boating is popular on Elk Lake, making it a peaceful destination for canoeing and kayaking.
Birding and Wildlife Watching: The variety of ecosystems around Elk Lake supports a wide range of bird species:
Waterfowl & Aquatic Birds: The lake's clear waters attract species such as Mallards, Canada Geese, Wood Ducks, and Pied-billed Grebes. Visit Bend
Raptors: Keep an eye on the skies for Bald Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks, and Ospreys, especially near the lake and open meadows. East Cascades Bird Alliance
Songbirds & Forest Birds: The surrounding forests are home to Mountain Bluebirds, Black-capped Chickadees, Western Tanagers, and Cassin’s Vireos. East Cascades Bird Alliance