Henry Hagg Lake, OR

Henry Hagg Lake, located near Forest Grove, Oregon, has a surface area of approximately 1,113 acres when full. It was built primarily for flood control and water storage purposes, serving as a reservoir for the Tualatin River Basin. It's depth is 51ft. to 110 ft. It fluctuates around 22ft. a year.

The lake is an incredible destination located in Tualatin Valley, Oregon. Whether you're looking for a place to fish, camp, hike or just relax with nature, Henry Hagg Lake has these "items" covered.

Fishing is one of the most popular activities at this lake since there are a wide variety of fish species including trout, bass, catfish and perch. It is known for being a high quality Rainbow trout fishing lake as well as a great place to fish for Smallmouth bass.

LOCATION Henry Hagg Lake is located in northwestern Oregon, United States. It is specifically situated in Washington County.

Nearby cities and towns.

Forest Grove – About 10 miles to the northwest, it’s a larger city with a variety of services and amenities.

Hillsboro – Roughly 15 miles to the northeast, it’s a significant city in the region with a strong tech presence and many attractions.

Beaverton – Around 20 miles to the east, it’s a well-developed city with shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Cornelius – Approximately 10 miles to the south, it’s a smaller town but has a tight-knit community feel.

Dilley – Very close, just a few miles to the south, it’s a small unincorporated community.

FISH SPECIES Rainbow Trout: These are stocked in the lake and are popular among anglers. Largemouth Bass: A common sportfish found in the lake. Smallmouth Bass: Also present and sought after by anglers. Bluegill: A sunfish species that inhabits the lake. Crappie: Both black and white crappie can be found. Brown Bullhead: A species of catfish that resides in the lake. Yellow Perch: Another popular pan fish species.

The Most popular fish species Rainbow Trout: Rainbow trout are stocked regularly in Henry Hagg Lake by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) and are a primary target for many anglers, especially during the cooler months when they are more active.(more below) Largemouth Bass: Largemouth bass are another popular sportfish in the lake. They are sought after for their size and fighting ability, especially during the warmer months when they are more active near shallow water and structure. The lake offers a good environment for bass fishing due to its relatively warm waters and varied habitat.(more below)

Smallmouth Bass: Though less abundant than largemouth bass, smallmouth bass are also targeted by anglers in Henry Hagg Lake. They are known for their aggressive strikes and can be found around rocky areas and drop-offs.

Crappie: Both black crappie and white crappie are present in the lake and are popular among anglers targeting panfish. They can be found in schools near submerged structures and are commonly fished for their delicious taste. Live minnows and a bobber are classic. Small jigs are more than popular with the Crappie fishermen. What color? The one that is catching fish that day. White and yellow are two basic jig colors. Check with bait and tackle shops, other fishermen, or the marina. Good information resides with these folks.

Bluegill: Bluegill are another panfish species in Henry Hagg Lake that anglers enjoy targeting, especially during the warmer months. This is a great fish for those just learning to fish. Small lures including flies tied at the end of your line -- 3 to 5 feet below a bobber and reeled in slow near brush or weeds at times will surprise you. Of course worms, small hook and a bobber are classic.

Some good fishing spots at Henry Hagg Lake in Oregon include

Inlet streams: Fly fishing at the mouths of inlet streams can be especially good in late summer and fall. Southern shore: The southern shore near the dam is a good place for bank fishing. Creek arms and shallow coves: In the spring, these areas can be productive for bass fishing with lures that mimic small baitfish. Riprap areas: As temperatures warm, smallmouth bass move to deeper water, so fish along areas of riprap in the south half of the lake near Scoggins Dam. Submerged stumps and river rock patches: Some anglers focus on these areas when fishing at Henry Hagg Lake.

BOATING Henry Hagg Lake Park provides several boat ramps and launch areas around the lake. These ramps are designed to accommodate various types of boats, including motorized boats, sailboats, kayaks, and canoes. About half of the lake is open to motorized boats, while the upper half is a no-wake zone for non-motorized craft. Some vendors may offer boat rentals at Henry Hagg Lake, providing options for visitors who do not have their own watercraft. Rental availability may vary depending on the season and local regulations.

TRAILS Henry Hagg Lake Park offers a variety of trails that wind through the scenic landscape around the lake. These trails cater to hikers, walkers, runners, and even horseback riders.(more below)

Hagg Lake Trail This is the main trail that circles around the lake, offering approximately 13 miles of scenic views. It's a multi-use trail that accommodates hikers, runners, cyclists, and equestrians.

Sain Creek Trail This trail is located on the south side of the lake and provides a more secluded and peaceful hiking experience. It's a loop trail that offers opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying nature.

Scoggins Valley Park Trail This trail is located on the north side of the lake and connects with the Hagg Lake Trail. It provides access to the lake and is popular for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.

West Shore Drive Trail This is a shorter trail segment that runs along West Shore Drive on the west side of the lake. It's a good option for a shorter walk or jog with lake views.

Mountain Bike Trails There are also mountain biking trails available near Henry Hagg Lake, such as the nearby Stub Stewart State Park, which offers a variety of trails suitable for different skill levels.

These trails vary in length and difficulty, providing options for casual strolls, longer hikes, or more challenging activities like mountain biking. They offer opportunitie to explore the diverse natural environment around Henry Hagg Lake, including forests, meadows, and lakeside views. When planning your visit, consider checking with local park authorities for trail maps, current conditions, and any seasonal closures or restrictions.

Hagg Lake Trail This is the main trail that circles around the lake, offering approximately 13 miles of scenic views. It's a multi-use trail that accommodates hikers, runners, cyclists, and equestrians.

Sain Creek Trail This trail is located on the south side of the lake and provides a more secluded and peaceful hiking experience. It's a loop trail that offers opportunities for bird watching and enjoying nature.

Scoggins Valley Park Trail This trail is located on the north side of the lake and connects with the Hagg Lake Trail. It provides access to the lake and is popular for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.

West Shore Drive Trail This is a shorter trail segment that runs along the lake.

CAMPING THERE IS NO OVERNIGHT CAMPING around the lake itself. Scoggins Park located at the lake has over 100 campsites.

BIRDING Birding at Henry Hagg Lake in Oregon can be a rewarding experience due to the diverse habitats and bird species found in the area. Henry Hagg Lake Park encompasses a variety of habitats including forested areas, wetlands, grasslands, and the lake itself. Each habitat supports different bird species, making it a rich area for bird diversity. More below

NEARBY CITIES

Mill City: Approximately 15 miles northwest of Detroit Lake, Mill City is a small town along the North Santiam River. It offers amenities such as lodging, dining, and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Salem: Salem, the capital city of Oregon, is located about 50 miles west of Detroit Lake. It is the largest city in the region and offers a wide range of services, accommodations, and attractions.

Stayton: Situated about 30 miles northwest of Detroit Lake, Stayton is a smaller city with amenities including lodging, dining, and services for travelers.

Albany: Albany is located about 55 miles northwest of Detroit Lake. It's a larger city than Stayton and offers more extensive amenities and services.

These cities and towns serve as convenient bases for exploring Detroit Lake and the surrounding Willamette National Forest, providing various accommodations, dining options, and access to outdoor activities.

WEATHER Go to www.weather.com. Search for Henry Hagg Lake, Oregon: Use the search bar on the website to enter "Henry Hagg Lake, Oregon" or the nearest town/city. Don’t hesitate to ask local anglers or visit nearby bait shops for the latest tips and information on current fishing conditions and hot spots.

Trout tips: Know the Seasons. Spring: Trout fishing is typically best in the spring when water temperatures start to warm up, and trout are more active. They often move into shallower waters during this time. Fall: Fall can also be a good time as trout feed more aggressively to prepare for winter.

Basic fishing gear for trout. Rod and Reel: Use a light to medium-action rod and a spinning reel. Light tackle can make the fishing experience more enjoyable and increase your chances of a good catch. A 4 to 6-pound test line is usually sufficient for trout fishing at Henry Hagg Lake.

Bait and Lures Bait: Live bait such as worms, power bait, or salmon eggs can be effective. You can also use dough balls or cheese.

Lures: Small spinners, spoons, and crankbaits are popular choices. Try colors like silver, gold, or chartreuse.

Flies If fly fishing, try nymphs, streamers, or dry flies. Patterns like the Woolly Bugger or Pheasant Tail Nymph can be productive.

Fishing Techniques

Casting: Cast near structures such as submerged logs, rocks, or drop-offs where trout,Bass and other fish species are likely to hide and feed in these areas.

Retrieval: Vary your retrieval speed and technique. Trout can be attracted to both fast and slow-moving lures depending on their mood and the water temperature.

Drift Fishing: If using bait, let it drift naturally with the current, as this mimics natural food sources.

Typical times to fish: Early morning and late afternoon are often the most productive times to fish for trout. Trout are generally more active during these cooler parts of the day.

Location of fish An excellent source of fishing and fishing techniques is YouTube. There are hundreds of videos covering the types and aspects of fishing.

Shore fishing Look for areas with good cover, such as weed beds and fallen trees. Trout often congregate around these spots.

Boat Fishing If you have access to a boat, you can reach deeper areas where trout may be more active. Trolling with lures or bait can be effective or casting from a boat to areas where access is challenging if casting from shore.

Water Conditions Trout prefer cooler waters, so pay attention to water temperature. Early morning or overcast days may offer better conditions.

Clarity: Clear water may require more subtle lures and presentations, while murkier water might call for brighter or noisier lures.

Local Knowledge - Ask Locals. Don’t hesitate to ask local anglers or visit nearby bait shops for the latest tips and information on current fishing conditions and hot spots at Henry Hagg Lake.

Fishing for bass usually requires the use of crankbaits, jerkbaits and top water lures. Artificial lures such as soft plastics and jigs are also effective when targeting these fish.

Time of Day: Early morning and late evening are often the best times for bass fishing when they are most active. During hot summer days, bass may also be more active during early morning or late afternoon due to cooler water temperatures.

Target Structure: Look for areas with submerged structures such as fallen trees, rock piles, weed beds, and submerged vegetation. These provide cover and ambush points for bass.

Use of Lures

Soft Plastics such asTexas-rigged worms, creature baits, and crawfish imitations work well around vegetation and structure.

Topwater Baits: Early morning or late evening, use buzzbaits, poppers, or frogs to target bass near the surface.

Jigs: Pitch jigs with trailers into cover and let them sink slowly.

Crankbaits: Use shallow to medium diving crankbaits to cover water and locate active bass.

Techniques: Flipping and Pitching: Effective for targeting specific spots within cover.

Jigging: Lift and drop your jig along the bottom near structure. Slow Presentation: In colder months or when bass are less active, slow down your retrieve and use more subtle presentations. Pay Attention to Water Temperature: Bass are cold-blooded creatures, so their activity levels are influenced by water temperature. In colder months, fish deeper or slower, while in warmer months, they may move shallower.

Stay Versatile: Be prepared to adjust your techniques and lures based on weather conditions, water clarity, and the behavior of the bass.

Respect Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations and obtain any necessary permits or licenses before fishing at Henry Hagg Lake.

By focusing on these tips and adapting to the conditions at Henry Hagg Lake, you can increase your chances of having a successful bass fishing trip.

Catfish A variety of catfish such as channel cats, bullheads and flathead catfish are present in Henry Hagg Lake. Fishing for catfish is best done with live bait such as large bait fish, night crawlers, or cut bait like shrimp or chicken.