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Fishing Rufus Woods Lake

AKA: Rufus Woods Reservoir

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By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Rufus Woods Lake, WA

Popular Fish Species Rufus Woods Lake, WA


Rufus Woods Lake Popular Fish - Rainbow Trout

Rainbow Trout Fishing

Again this year, fishing for big rainbow trout in Rufus Woods Lake continues to be extremely productive for local anglers. There is always a good chance you can catch a trout over 10 pounds here. Fish for rainbow trout with worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic their preferred prey. 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.


Rufus Woods Lake Popular Fish - Walleye

Walleye Fishing

Thanks to good fisheries management by the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife, a healthy population of walleye are thriving in the waters of Rufus Woods Lake this year. May and June tend to be the best time for weekend anglers to catch them. During this time they tend to move shallower and closer to shore. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. As always, stay around schools of baitfish. They are eager to feed throughout the lake, but tend to concentrate around structure on points, flats and ledges off the river channels. A proven method for catching walleye here is trolling with spinners tipped with live bait, or trolling with long-billed, deep diving crankbaits. However casting live bait, jigs, worms and spoons also works well at times.


Rufus Woods Lake Popular Fish - Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass Fishing

Smallmouth bass are another favorite of many locals at Rufus Woods Lake. Smallies like the cool, clear water, they are tough fighters and exciting to catch. Fishing for smallmouth bass is good anytime they are shallow - in spring, during high water, mornings in summer and during warmer fall afternoons. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap, and around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure with small worms, jigs and spoons. Largemouth bass and spotted bass also reside here in good numbers.


Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for smallmouth bass, walleye, rainbow trout, brown trout, yellow perch and kokanee salmon at Rufus Woods Lake in Washington.

Rufus Woods Lake Fishing Video

Synonymous with big trout, Rufus Woods Lake is a year-round fishery at an elevation of 950 ft above sea level. It is home to a nice variety of fish species, including trout, walleye, smallmouth bass, perch and salmon all of which are here in good numbers.

Rufus Woods Lake, in Washington, is a renowned fishing destination that offers anglers a unique and productive fishing experience. The lake is formed by the Chief Joseph Dam on the Columbia River and is known for its abundant fish population. Popular fish species found in Rufus Woods Lake include rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, walleye, and smallmouth bass. Anglers can enjoy casting their lines from the shore or from boats to target these sought-after fish species.

If you're after a trophy, trout in the double-digit range could bite at any time. The lake has 6,400 surface acres, covering a 51 mile section of the Columbia River in north-central Washington. Well over 100 miles of shoreline invite anglers to cast for their favorite species while enjoying the beauty and serenity of the great outdoors. Boat launch ramps can be found at Bridgeport State Park, the Army Corps of Engineers access area, and other locations around the lake. A WA license is required when fishing from the Douglas County shoreline. In marked areas on the Colville Reservation shoreline, either a tribal permit or Washington State fishing license is required. The Bridgeport State Park Campground is the only camping facilities at the lake.

Rufus Woods Lake in Washington offers a rewarding fishing experience, complemented by boating and camping opportunities. Whether you're angling for trout, salmon, or bass, cruising the calm waters by boat, or spending a night under the starry sky at a lakeside campground, Rufus Woods Lake provides ample recreational opportunities for visitors to relax, appreciate the natural beauty, and create lasting memories.

Fishing Boats For Rent In WA

Primary fish species residing in Rufus Woods Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Smallmouth bass Walleye Rainbow trout Brown trout Yellow Perch Kokanee salmon

Rufus Woods Lake Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: NO

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a favored activity at Rufus Woods Lake, allowing visitors to explore the expansive waters and access prime fishing spots. The lake permits both motorized and non-motorized boats, providing anglers with versatility in their boating choices. Whether you prefer the speed and convenience of a powerboat or the tranquility of a kayak or canoe, boaters can navigate the calm waters, uncover hidden coves, and find optimal locations to cast their lines. The panoramic views and serene atmosphere make boating on Rufus Woods Lake a truly enjoyable experience.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Martin Olbricht Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, east side, off Spirit Ridge Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.

Fishing Guides On Rufus Woods Lake

Hurds Guide Service - trout

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

Fishing License

Click here for a Washington fishing license.

Camping options are available near Rufus Woods Lake, providing an opportunity to extend the outdoor adventure and fully immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the area. Nearby campgrounds offer campsites equipped with various amenities, including picnic areas, restrooms, and shower facilities. Camping near Rufus Woods Lake allows anglers to appreciate the tranquil surroundings, enjoy peaceful evenings by the water's edge, and have convenient access to fishing opportunities throughout their stay.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Bridgeport State Park Campground - 509 686-7231

Rufus Woods Lake WA Map - Fishing & Camping Areas

Contact Information

Rufus Woods Lake
Bridgeport State Park Campground
235A Half Sun Way
Bridgeport, WA 98813
509 686-7231

 

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Rufus Woods Lake in Washington.

Information about fishing lakes in Washington

Rufus Woods Lake provides anglers to opportunity to fish for trout, walleye, smallmouth bass, perch and salmon in north-central Washington.

Fishing on Rufus Woods Lake.