Fishing Lake Billy Chinook, OR

AKA: Billy Chinook Reservoir

Boat and bank fishing

Last updated on February 7, 2026.

Popular Fish Species
Lake Billy Chinook Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Fishing Boat Rentals
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Fishing License
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Lake Billy Chinook, OR

Popular Fish Species

Rainbow Trout Fishing

Fishing for rainbow trout at Lake Billy Chinook can be effective using worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic prey. 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.

Smallmouth Bass Fishing

Smallmouth bass are the most sought-after species at Lake Billy Chinook, with fish over 3 pounds very common. Largemouth bass also reside here in good numbers. Smallmouth bass fishing is particularly good when they move to shallow water. Use shallow spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, crankbaits, tube baits and jerkbaits around any sort of rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. Other times, focus your time on deeper structure with drop-shot rigs, small worms, jigs and spoons. Rock piles and points are prime areas for smallmouth as these areas are also home to crawfish.

Kokanee Salmon Fishing

Sockeye salmon which remain landlocked, never migrating to the ocean, are called kokanee salmon. On-going stocking of kokanee salmon helps to maintain a nice population for the fishery. Typically kokanee average one to two pounds. As one of the premiere kokanee fishing lakes in Oregon, Lake Billy Chinook delivers plenty of fish above normal averages. These tasty fish school in lakes at depths which remain at ideal temperatures of between 48 and 58 degrees. Once this depth is identified, use a fish finder to locate schools. Use small lures trolled at the appropriate depth. The can also be caught using corn, but the main way they are caught is using flashy lures which they attack when the lure intrudes their space.

Lake & Fishing Video

Fishing tips for boat or bank fishing

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, bull trout, rainbow trout, brown trout and kokanee salmon at Lake Billy Chinook in Oregon.

At the intersection of three rivers, Lake Billy Chinook lake is home to bass, trout and salmon. This 29,900-acre lake, with three major arms, is located in the central part of the state, at Culver, OR.

One of the primary attractions of Lake Billy Chinook is its thriving population of kokanee salmon. These landlocked sockeye salmon provide anglers with exciting and fast-paced fishing. Lake Billy Chinook is also home to several other popular fish species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and smallmouth bass. Rainbow trout are regularly stocked in the lake and offer an excellent challenge for both fly anglers and lure fishermen.

Enjoy the exceptional scenery along the 72 miles of shoreline, from a boat or from the bank at some of the public areas. At campgrounds and public areas there are opportunities for fishing from the bank. Kayaks and canoes allow access to more of these great fishing waters.

Primary fish species residing in Lake Billy Chinook

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake Billy Chinook Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Fishing Boat Rentals

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Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

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Marinas

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Fishing License

Click here for a Oregon Fishing License.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

The Cove Palisades State Park Campground - 541 546-3412

Deschutes Campground - 541 546-3412