Try Ice Fishing in Oregon This Winter

You’ve tried angling.  You’ve explored fly fishing.  But have you completed your full outdoor experience with ice fishing?  You may think of the sport as something people in Minnesota or Canada do, but there are fantastic places for ice fishing in Oregon, too.  In fact, one of the best places for ice fishing is at Lake of the Woods near Eagle Point.  We can help you plan an exciting golfing getaway that includes a side adventure to a beautiful, nearby frozen lake for ice fishing.

Why You Should Consider Ice Fishing in Oregon

If you enjoy fishing, it’s time to try ice fishing.  Experienced ice fishermen enjoy the sport for many reasons, but some of the top observations are:

1.  It’s often easier to catch fish ice fishing than with traditional angling or fly fishing.
2.  Frozen lakes are rarely crowded with other fishermen.
3.  You don’t need a boat.

What Do You Need to Know About Ice Fishing

1. Always make sure the ice is safe.  Talk with local experts about the conditions of a frozen lake, and pay attention to the ice under your steps.  Always venture onto the ice with a buddy, and make sure you are both carrying rescue ropes and equipment in case of an emergency.  
2. Stick to fishing in designated areas.  Locals and resort staff will likely have identified safe and productive spots for ice fishing.  Don’t get creative and wander off to find a different, unexplored location.  
3. Don’t go crazy buying new equipment.  Check with local recreation centers about rental opportunities first.  Sometimes all you need to bring is your own fishing rod, bait, and container to take your fish home in.  Many ice fishermen recommend that beginners use a light trout or warm-water rod and reel with a 4# test line.  A five-gallon bucket makes an excellent container for carrying all your equipment and hauling away fish, plus you can turn it upside down to sit on it while you’re fishing.
4. Drill carefully.  If you need to drill your hole, select your first location near the shore and spend at least 15 minutes fishing from it.  If the spot isn’t productive, drill another one about five yards away.  Continue this process until you start getting bites on the line.
5. Bring an ice scoop.  After you begin fishing, the water in the hole may re-freeze.  If that happens, don’t use your hands to scoop it out.  Instead, use an ice scoop to keep the hole clear.

Check Out Ice Fishing at Lake of the Woods

Lake of the Woods is only about 42 miles from Eagle Point and is one of the top locations in the state for ice fishing.  The lake is planted with rainbow trout, so you may luck out and bring home a few of these prized fish.  Ice fishermen at Lake of the Woods also catch yellow perch, brown trout, kokanee, largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, and bullhead catfish.

If you’re interested in ice fishing, we can help you coordinate your adventure.

The Eagle Point Golf Club at The Resort at Eagle Point is the ultimate golfing getaway for every family.  We’re located in the heart of Southern Oregon and centrally located near many popular destinations.  Our staff will work with you to coordinate visits to places like the Oregon Shakespeare Theatre, white-water rafting excursions, skiing or hiking at Mt. Ashland, local wineries and breweries, and the House of Mystery.  Just let us know what types of activities your family enjoys, and we’ll help plan your itinerary.  Call us at 541-879-3700 for more information and to book your reservations today.