Lake Billy Chinook is about an hour and a half northwest of Bend. Lake Billy was created in the 1960s when a dam was introduced to the three bodies of water that make Lake Billy Chinook. The Deschutes, Crooked River, and the Metolius river all confluence to form this massive reservoir. Lake Billy Chinook is the largest reservoir in Central Oregon, covering nearly 47 square miles. At its longest point, the reservoir spans 28 miles. This reservoir is unique in shape, as it has three long arms created naturally from the Deschutes, Crooked, and Metolius Rivers. The reservoir is named after a Native American, Billy Chinook, of the Wasco Tribe who traveled alongside John Fremont and Kit Carson. This massive reservoir is a summertime playground for boaters, campers, and others looking to spend some time in the great outdoors!

Given the vastness of Lake Billy Chinook, the fishing opportunities are tremendous! The fishing opportunity is abundant whether you are targeting brown trout, rainbow trout, bull trout, or jigging for kokanee. Many Central Oregonians strap packs to their bags and hike in off the canyon walls to fish while others motor across the sprawling lake in hopes of hooking into a fish or two. In recent years, Lake Billy Chinook has garnered attention as a bull trout fishery. This said, leave your small rods and small flies at home! We recommend grabbing your 6-8 weight rods, a nice sinking line, and some big streamer flies to chase these elusive species. The prime bull trout season is typically from early March through Mid April, while the water temps remain suitable before these fish begin to migrate into the rivers. Call us at 1-866-800-2812 , and we can get you set up for a great day on one of the best bull trout fisheries in Central Oregon.