Fishing
Umpqua National Forest provides an endless number of fishing opportunities for the experienced and beginning angler.
Lake and Pond Fishing
- Fishing on national forests and grasslands is sometimes more than a sport. For some, the rewards of lakes, rivers and streams feed families at home or at the campsite.
- State laws apply to fishing laws and regulations on all national forests and grasslands. Some states prohibit putting fish remains into the waters, lakes, streams or rivers after you have cleaned and gutted your catch. Some states set limits on the number of fish you can catch and when. Other rules are imposed by the national forest and grassland, such as not fishing during derbies or in areas posted as closed. Know the rules before you angle to your favorite fishing spot.
- Thin strings of nylon or other materials can help bring home a king salmon, the most prized fish in Alaska, or a speckled trout from the cool Gold Medal Colorado rivers that flow through national forests.
- Many of our larger lakes and reservoirs on national grasslands and forests allows motorized boats to operate in their waters, with different restrictions applied depending on the horsepower of each vessel. Please check with the corresponding state’s office for specific information.
River and Stream Fishing
- If using a boat to fish, wear a life jacket and make sure each passenger wears one, too.
- Inspect waterfronts daily—the natural environment is subject to change without notice.
- Don’t fish in areas where it is not permitted. These areas have been declared “off limits” to protect wildlife, vegetation, or for your safety.
- When choosing a site for fishing, always consider safety factors. Because fishing is practiced in a variety of environments, evaluate factors specific to safety in each environment.
- Bring along extra safety items such as water, flashlights, maps, and a cell phone or radio.
- Always wear foot gear appropriate to the conditions.
- Stay dry, warm and protected from the elements. Wear a waterproof sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15. Wear thin layers of clothing that progress outward to include water and wind protection as the final layer.
- Use appropriate insect protection measures, including proper clothing and repellents.
- Keep fishing knives sharp and cover the blade when not in use.
- Handle fish carefully.
- Use caution when baiting and removing hooks.
- Rivers, creeks and reservoirs within the national forest system offer great opportunities for fishing. Many of the slow-moving bodies of water, especially reservoirs, offer an excellent variety of fishing opportunities.
Search for Fishing Opportunities
Apple Creek Campground
Site Closed
This campground is operated by a concessionaire under permit from the Umpqua National Forest.Apple Campground has seven campsites that are nestled on the bank of the Wild and Scenic North Umpqua…
Broken Arrow Campground
Site Closed
Set back from the shores of Diamond Lake, Broken Arrow Campground is nestled in lodgepole pine forest. This picturesque spot has 121 campsites and boasts views of both Mount Bailey and Mt. Thielsen.…
Broken Arrow Group Sites at Broken Arrow Campground
Site Closed
Four group campsites set back from the shore in lodgepole pine forest, at the south end of Diamond Lake, is a quiet, less-hectic playground for golden mantle ground squirrels. This picturesque spot…
Bunker Hill Campground
Site Closed
This campground is operated by a concessionaire under permit from the Umpqua National Forest. Bunker Hill Campground clings to the northwest shore of Lemolo Lake in lodgepole pine forest. In the…
Cedar Creek Campground
Site Closed
This campground is operated by a concessionaire under permit from the Umpqua National Forest.Situated on a river terrace and shaded by old-growth forest canopy, Cedar Creek Campground offers a…
Clearwater #2 Forebay Forest Camp
Site Open
Clearwater #2 Forebay Forest Camp is located in a grove of large old growth trees and sits along the Lemolo #2 Forebay. This charming location also has a boat ramp that provides access to Lemolo…
Diamond Lake Campground
Site Closed
Diamond Lake Campground is nestled among conifer trees along the east shore of the mile-high Diamond Lake. This campground offers 51 lakeshore camping sites as well as 187 inshore sites.  During the…
Diamond Lake North End Boating Site
Site Closed
This Diamond Lake North End Boat Launch is a very popular boat launch located near Diamond Lake Resort. This recreation sites offers great views of the lake and Mount Bailey along with a short jetty…
Eagle Rock Campground
Site Closed
This campground is operated by a concessionaire under permit from the Umpqua National Forest.Nestled in mixed conifers and adjacent to North Umpqua River, Eagle Rock Campground is a quiet, shaded…
East Lemolo Campground
Site Closed
This campground is operated by a concessionaire under permit from the Umpqua National Forest.East Lemolo Campground and Boat Launch has 15 campsites that are nestled in a cluster of clearings in the…