Detroit Reservoir - Detroit, OR

Lake Information

Surface Area:3500 acres
Shoreline:32 miles
Maximum Depth:440 ft.
Capacity:455000 acre ft.
Elevation:1565 ft.
Fish Species: Chinook Salmon, Cutthroat Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout, Largemouth Bass, Kokanee Salmon, Brown Bullhead
Detroit Reservoir, a colossal impoundment on the North Santiam River near Detroit, Oregon, stands as a preeminent and visually stunning coldwater fishery nestled within the Cascade Mountains. Formed by the Detroit Dam, it is meticulously managed by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), primarily for its exceptional kokanee salmon and rainbow trout populations.

The primary piscatorial pursuits are its incredibly popular kokanee salmon, providing strong fights and consistent action, and its robust rainbow trout, regularly stocked to ensure reliable put-and-take opportunities. Incidental, protected bull trout and established smallmouth bass also contribute to the diversity. Angling techniques are expertly applied: precision trolling with specialized gear for kokanee, often with downriggers; varied methods for rainbow trout, including trolling, still-fishing, and spin-casting; and lures for smallmouth bass around structures. Optimal angling spans year-round for kokanee, with trout peaking in spring and fall. Access is exemplary via multiple public boat ramps, necessitating watercraft for comprehensive coverage. Regulations, meticulously managed by the ODFW, are dynamic; strict adherence to current directives concerning bag limits, size restrictions, and mandatory immediate release of bull trout is unequivocally paramount for legal compliance and sustainable resource management within this majestic mountain fishery.



Latest Photos

9-1-2022
9-1-2022
9-1-2022
8-20-2022

Latest Fish Plants

Plant DateSpeciesSourceTotal Pounds
6-16-2025Rainbow TroutODFW 
6-09-2025Rainbow TroutODFW 
6-02-2025Rainbow TroutODFW 
5-26-2025Rainbow TroutODFW 
5-19-2025Rainbow TroutODFW 


Latest Fish Reports

Date Report Author
6-10-2025 The reservoir is now completely full
The reservoir is now completely full, just in... more »
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff
6-2-2025 The reservoir is now completely full
The reservoir is now completely full, just in... more »
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff
3-5-2025 The reservoir is slowly filling up in preparation for the busy summer recreation season
The reservoir is slowly filling up in preparation... more »
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff
2-26-2025 Detroit Reservoir Fishing Report
Recent rain and snow melt has brought the... more »
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff
1-22-2025 Fishing can be surprisingly good
This waterbody currently has no boat access because... more »
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff

Detailed Map