Hwy. 22 has reopened, but expect delays and reduced speed limits from Gates through Marion Forks. The lake will get stocked again this week with 2,100 one-pound trout. The reservoir is slowly beginning to fill again, now that we are in the second half of the winter. Boaters are able to use Mongold State Park boat ramp to launch boats. 

Anglers with boats might want to consider visiting during the week, as it can get very crowded this time of year, especially on weekends when the weather is nice, and only one boat ramp available. For the latest information on water levels at Detroit Reservoir 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.   

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.