Hwy. 22 has reopened, but expect delays and reduced speed limits from Gates through Marion Forks. Mongold boat ramp is open but reservoir levels are at times too low to launch motorized boats. Heavy rains during the last few weeks have brought the water level in the reservoir up enough to launch boats. Water is currently being released out of the reservoir to provide storage capacity for spring. Before planning to launch a boat, it would be best to check with the Army Corps of Engineers’ website for more information.

This time of year, and throughout the winter, trout are going to be the main fish to pursue.  Anglers will catch some kokanee during the winter but their feeding activity is hard to predict.

Anglers have reported catching lots of small chinook salmon in pursuit of kokanee and trout. Please take extra care in releasing these fish back into the water unharmed, as they are listed species and are only in the reservoir temporarily before they migrate downstream and out the ocean.   

Trout stocking will resume this spring.

As a reminder to anglers, fishing for and harvesting chinook in the lake and the rivers above is prohibited. Any chinook caught in Detroit must be released unharmed.

Anglers are encouraged to report their catch on forms available at signs and kiosks which have been installed at key locations around the lake. Simply fill out the form and return in the designated drop boxes. There is also an on-line form. Remember to indicate whether the fish you catch have their adipose fin or not. This information will allow ODFW to manage the fishery for the benefit of both recreational anglers and the resource.