Willow Lake just received 2,000 legal rainbow trout this week. There should be plenty of other holdover trout available, as well as yellow perch.  

The reservoir is hovering at 58 percent full and the improved concrete boat ramp is open.The gravel/dirt ramp near the host is also available and appears hardpacked.   

Water temperatures are cold but there are trout available here. Temperatures should be fairly mild for the week and weekend. Fishing from shore will likely produce plenty of perch and possibly some bluegill. No trout have been stocked since late spring, but there should be fish still present. With some nice weekend weather, this may be worth a trip.

Campgrounds at Willow Lake are closed until spring. Day use is open, but fees are collected. A yearly Jackson County Park pass are also available for $40.  For more information please visit the Jackson County Parks website.

Anglers encountering illegally introduced yellow perch are always encouraged to take as many of these as they want. This illegal introduction has only resulted in stunted perch and impacts to the bass and trout fishery in this lake and numerous others around the Southwest District. Anglers are reminded that using live fish as bait is prohibited. If you see someone transporting live fish from or into a water body, please get a photo and/or call OSP with this information.