Siltcoos Lake
Siltcoos Lake, the largest lake on the Oregon coast, offers diverse fishing opportunities near Florence. This 3,164-acre freshwater paradise is renowned for its excellent largemouth bass fishing and is one of the few lakes in Oregon where anglers can keep wild coho salmon during designated seasons.
Quick Info
Fish Species and Seasons
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Largemouth Bass: Siltcoos Lake is renowned for its robust largemouth bass population. Anglers often find success near submerged structures, fallen trees, and along the numerous coves and creek arms. The bass fishing season peaks during the warmer months, particularly in late spring and summer.
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Crappie and Panfish: The lake supports healthy populations of crappie, bluegill, and yellow perch. These species are typically found around submerged vegetation and structures. Spring and early summer are ideal times for targeting panfish.
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Trout: The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife stocks Siltcoos Lake with rainbow trout in the spring, enhancing the trout fishing experience. Native cutthroat trout are also present. Trout fishing is most productive in the cooler months of spring and fall.
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Coho Salmon: Uniquely, Siltcoos Lake allows the retention of wild coho salmon during the open season, typically from October through December. Fishing for coho improves after significant rainfall, which facilitates their movement into the lake.
Access Points and Facilities
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Westlake County Park: Located on the west side of the lake, this park offers a boat ramp, picnic areas, and restrooms, providing convenient access for anglers.
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Ada Park: Situated on the east side, Ada Park features a boat launch and shoreline access, catering to both boaters and bank anglers.
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Camping and Amenities: Several campgrounds are available near Siltcoos Lake, including Tyee Campground along the Siltcoos River and Waxmyrtle Campground accessible from U.S. Route 101. These sites offer camping facilities and additional access points to the lake and surrounding waterways.
Scenic Beauty and Wildlife
Siltcoos Lake offers stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife viewing opportunities:
- The lake is surrounded by coastal shore pine forests and sand dunes, creating a picturesque backdrop for fishing and recreation
- Birdwatchers can spot a variety of species, including bald eagles, ospreys, herons, kingfishers, and waterfowl
- Otters, deer, and other mammals are frequently seen along the shoreline
- The nearby Siltcoos River estuary provides habitat for wading birds and shorebirds, including the threatened snowy plover during nesting season
The lake’s scenery changes with the seasons, from lush green forests in spring and summer to foggy, atmospheric conditions in fall and winter. Kayakers and boaters can explore the lake’s numerous coves and inlets, enjoying views of forested hills and occasional glimpses of the Pacific Ocean to the west. Visitors should be mindful of seasonal wildlife restrictions, particularly regarding the snowy plover nesting areas along the nearby beach.
Sources:
Shane’s Outdoor Fun, Casing Oregon, Dunes City Hall, Oregon Fishing Forum
USA Fishermap, Sport Fishing Report, Best Fishing in America, Forest Service
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