Foster Lake is in great shape at the moment

Foster Reservoir - Sweet Home, OR (Linn County)


by OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff
8-10-2026
Website

Foster Lake is in great shape at the moment. This waterbody is stocked with trout in the spring as well as in early fall. Besides trout, look for smallmouth bass and yellow perch near underwater structure and drop-offs. Please remember that only adipose fin-clipped trout may be kept as part of the 5-trout bag limit, but there are no limits on size or number of bass. In the summer, early morning and late evening are usually when fish become most active.

Retention of warmwater fish species such as bluegill, pumpkinseed, catfish, crappie, and yellow perch is allowed -- no limit on size or number. Anglers report good success in the two arms of the reservoir, as well as the shoreline in between. Trout and yellow perch can be caught year-round.

The reservoir is full, and all boat ramps are available. This scenic 1,200-acre reservoir on the South Santiam River is located just 30 minutes from Interstate 5. There is good bank access at several rest stops and campgrounds, and three seasonal boat ramps. No new updates.