Fishing at Suttle Lake: A Full Adventure
Suttle Lake, located in Central Oregon’s Deschutes National Forest, is a peaceful and scenic getaway that offers some of the best freshwater fishing in the region. Set against a backdrop of dense pine forest and snow-capped peaks, the lake is a beloved spot for both locals and travelers seeking tranquility and outdoor fun. Whether you're casting from shore or trolling in a boat, Suttle Lake delivers a fishing experience that balances challenge and reward beautifully.
Named after John Suttle, a pioneer settler in the area, this crystal-clear lake sits at around 3,400 feet elevation and spans about 253 acres. It’s not only a great destination for anglers, but also for kayakers, campers, and families enjoying a summer retreat. If you're new to fishing or just looking for a new location, Suttle Lake should be on your list.
Types of Fish You Can Catch at Suttle Lake
Anglers at Suttle Lake can expect to catch a variety of species. The lake is regularly stocked by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, which helps maintain healthy populations and supports a strong recreational fishing scene year-round.
- Rainbow Trout: These are the stars of Suttle Lake. Easy to catch and great for kids and beginners, rainbow trout are often caught with bait like PowerBait or nightcrawlers. They are known for their vivid pink stripe and delicious flavor.
- Kokanee Salmon: These landlocked versions of sockeye salmon are typically found in deeper water. Kokanee are schooling fish and can be caught in large numbers using trolling methods. Their bright silver scales and firm meat make them a favorite for the grill.
- Brown Trout: More elusive than rainbow trout, brown trout are predatory and require more skill to hook. They tend to bite in low light conditions and prefer deeper, cooler water during the heat of summer.
- Mountain Whitefish: While not everyone targets them, whitefish can be a fun catch using small hooks and worms. They’re mostly found near the lake bottom and can be caught throughout the year.
Fishing Tips to Maximize Your Catch
Tip 1: Fish Early or Late
Dawn and dusk are the best times to fish at Suttle Lake. The water is cooler, fish are more active, and the scenery is breathtaking as the sun rises or sets behind the Cascade mountains.
Tip 2: Match Your Gear to Your Target
If you're after rainbow trout, a simple spinning setup with 4–6 lb test will do. For kokanee, use specialized trolling gear with downriggers or lead-core line to reach deeper depths.
Tip 3: Troll for Kokanee
Trolling with flashers, dodgers, and lures like wedding rings or hoochies is the go-to method for catching kokanee. Tip your lures with white corn or maggots to improve success.
Tip 4: Don’t Overlook Shore Fishing
Many anglers find success from shore near the day-use area or the lodge dock. Try floating bait off the bottom or casting spinners like Panther Martins and Rooster Tails.
Tip 5: Winter Ice Fishing
On rare cold winters, Suttle Lake freezes over enough for ice fishing. Locals drill holes near the inlet and use tiny jigs and bait to catch whitefish and trout through the ice. Always check ice safety conditions first.
Where to Fish
Knowing where to cast can make all the difference. The lake has several popular and productive fishing zones:
- Boat Ramp Area: Easy access and often stocked with trout.
- The North Shoreline: Accessible via a hiking trail, this spot offers quiet fishing with fewer crowds.
- Suttle Lake Lodge Dock: If you're staying at the lodge, the dock is a prime location, especially in the evening.
- Deeper Middle Zones: Best reached by boat and ideal for kokanee and brown trout trolling.
Other Important Info
Make sure to bring mosquito repellent if you're visiting in late spring or early summer—this area is beautiful but buggy. Always bring layers of clothing; weather can change quickly in the high Cascades. And of course, don’t forget your Oregon fishing license, which is required for anyone age 12 and older.
Restrooms and parking are available at the day-use areas, and there are several camping options nearby. The Suttle Lake Lodge also offers cabins, gear rentals, and a cozy restaurant to warm up after a long day on the water.
Final Thoughts
Fishing at Suttle Lake offers not just the chance to catch your limit but also an opportunity to enjoy Oregon’s wild beauty. The lake is peaceful, the fish are plenty, and every visit feels like a memory in the making. Whether you’re teaching your kids to fish, perfecting your trolling technique, or simply soaking up the alpine air, Suttle Lake never disappoints.
So grab your rod, pack your tackle, and head up to Suttle Lake—where the water is clear, the fish are biting, and the adventure is waiting.