Ice Fishing Lakes In Oregon

Guide to favorite fish species at top ice fishing lakes in the state

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Last updated on February 21, 2026.

The best ice fishing lakes in OR include Diamond Lake, Lake Of The Woods and Prineville Reservoir. The most popular species through the ice, across the state, include trout, salmon and bass. The purpose of this page is to share basic information about the best ice fishing lakes in the state, plus the species found in each lake. See a list of lakes and species below.

Ice fishing is about as basic as angling gets, yet modern innovations have made it more comfortable and efficient than ever. During winter, it remains a popular pursuit in the state, drawing anglers onto frozen lakes and ponds in search of panfish, perch, pickerel, trout, and more. While cutting a hole still requires an auger, now commonly a lightweight lithium-ion powered model. Today’s gear options also include specialized short ice rods, inline reels designed to reduce line twist, high-visibility braided line, and sensitive spring bobbers to detect subtle bites. Many anglers also use sonar-based flashers or compact forward-facing ice transducers to locate fish beneath the ice in real time.

Beyond the basics of rod, reel, line, and hook or lure, anglers frequently rely on tip-ups rigged with baited lines to cover multiple holes (when legal), as well as small tungsten jigs, soft-plastic micro baits, and glow-in-the-dark spoons for deeper water. Live bait such remains effective, while prepared dough baits are popular for stocked trout. Comfort and safety gear have also advanced significantly, with insulated flip-over shelters, portable hub-style ice tents, heated seat buckets, spud bars for checking ice thickness, ice cleats for traction, and float-assist ice suits adding both warmth and security. Though the fundamentals remain simple, today’s ice fishing experience blends tradition with practical, high-tech improvements.

Oregon offers fantastic opportunities for ice fishing during the winter months, providing anglers with a unique and exhilarating fishing experience. Several fish species can be targeted through ice fishing in Oregon's frozen lakes and reservoirs.

Ice Fishing Tips & Techniques Video

One popular fish species to catch through ice fishing in Oregon is trout. Lakes and reservoirs such as Diamond Lake, Fish Lake, and Odell Lake are known for their trout populations. Rainbow trout and lake trout are commonly targeted during the winter months. Anglers often use small jigs, spoons, or bait such as worms or salmon eggs to entice strikes from these trout species.

Yellow perch is another sought-after species for ice anglers in Oregon. Several lakes, including Agency Lake, Willow Lake, and Phillips Reservoir, are known for their perch populations. These fish are attracted to structure and can be found near submerged vegetation or drop-offs. Small jigs tipped with bait or small minnows are effective in enticing perch to bite.

Safety

When ice fishing in Oregon, it's essential to prioritize safety. Thick, solid ice is crucial for safe ice fishing. Always check the ice thickness before venturing out onto the frozen water. A minimum ice thickness of four inches is generally considered safe for walking, but it is recommended to have at least six inches of clear ice for ice fishing. It's also important to dress appropriately for the cold weather and wear appropriate gear such as ice cleats and a life jacket.

Drilling holes in the ice is a common method for ice fishing. Anglers use ice augers or ice drills to create holes in the ice, typically ranging from 6 to 10 inches in diameter. Once the hole is drilled, anglers set up their fishing equipment, which may include ice fishing rods, tip-ups, or hand lines. Various baits and lures can be used, depending on the targeted fish species.

Ice fishing shelters or shanties are commonly used to provide protection from the elements. These portable structures provide warmth and shelter while allowing anglers to comfortably fish on the ice for extended periods. They come in various sizes and styles, from simple pop-up shelters to larger, insulated ice houses equipped with heaters and seating.

It's important to familiarize yourself with the fishing regulations and guidelines specific to ice fishing in Oregon. This includes knowing the size and bag limits, fishing seasons, and any specific rules or restrictions for the body of water you're fishing. Following these regulations helps maintain the health and sustainability of the fish populations and ensures a safe and enjoyable ice fishing experience in Oregon's winter wonderland.

Top Ice Fishing Lakes & Species

There are numerous places to go ice fishing in the state. Here are a list of some of the proven, best destinations.

Click the images for species details.

This is a great way to get the kids to go outdoors in winter, connect with nature and learn to fish. The first consideration when attempting to go ice fishing, is safety. Make sure the ice is safe, and that you are prepared should an accident occur. Dress to stay warm - it's better to remove extra jackets than be cold and miserable. Be aware that the ice can be slippery, and falls can be dangerous.

Click here for ice fishing basics, including details on finding the best place to fish, tips for cutting a hole, basic tackle, bait, lures, depths to fish, safety, shanty's, tents and huts.

Best ice fishing methods for crappie, bluegill, perch and sunfish

Horizontal jigs and spoon-type baits are the go-to baits for crappie, either tipped with a minnow, wax worm or prepared baits often triggers more bites. Jigs work better close to the bottom, spoons tend to work better higher in the water column. If options allow, 15 to 30 feet is the most common depth. Adjust as necessary. See additional info on ice fishing for crappie, perch and sunfish.

Best ice fishing methods for trout

Trout focus on small forage fish in winter, so baits that flash silver - jigs or spoons, do well in attracting trout. Dual rods, where legal, are very effective. One rod with a jig/live bait set up on a tip-up, the second with a spoon fished up and down pretty aggressively. See more detail about ice fishing for trout.

Best ice fishing methods for bass

Ice fishing for bass focuses on locating structure and triggering reaction strikes. Drill holes near submerged weed edges, rock piles, drop-offs, or timber where bass hold during winter. Use a medium-light to medium ice rod with 6–10 lb test line and work jigging spoons, lipless crankbaits, or small soft-plastic swimbaits tipped on jig heads. Fish slightly above the depth where bass are marked, using short, sharp lifts followed by controlled drops. Watch your line closely for subtle ticks, and vary cadence until fish respond. Additional information about ice fishing for largemouth and smallmouth bass.

Click here for a Oregon Fishing License.

Oregon Map

States with notable ice fishing

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