The Best Fishing Spots on Mt. Hood

The Best Fishing Spots on Mt. Hood

Your guide to angling adventure in Oregon’s iconic wilderness

Nestled in Oregon’s Cascade Range, Mt. Hood offers more than just jaw-dropping hikes and epic views — it’s a fishing paradise. Whether you're a seasoned fly angler or just looking for a quiet afternoon with a rod and reel, the Mt. Hood region is home to a variety of lakes, rivers, and streams that deliver.

Here’s a breakdown of some of the best fishing spots around Mt. Hood and what makes each one worth the cast.

1. Trillium Lake

Best for: Beginners, stocked trout, lakeside ease
Located just 7.5 miles southwest of the mountain, Trillium Lake is a popular choice for good reason. It’s stocked regularly with rainbow trout, making it ideal for families or those new to fishing. The calm waters and stunning view of Mt. Hood make for a perfect fishing day, even if the bite is slow.

Fish stocking schedule for Trillium and nearby waters: ODFW Stocking Schedule

2. Timothy Lake

Best for: Kayak fishing, scenic solitude, brook trout
Timothy Lake offers a more remote experience with plenty of shoreline and open water to explore. It's home to brook, rainbow, and cutthroat trout, and you’ll often find anglers float-tubing or paddling out in kayaks. While it’s a bit farther out (about 25 miles southwest of Mt. Hood), the payoff is well worth it.

3. Lost Lake

Best for: Early morning fishing, photography, rainbow trout
Famous for its postcard-perfect view of Mt. Hood, Lost Lake is also a solid trout destination. The lake is stocked seasonally and offers good shore access and boat rentals. Get there early — it can get crowded in the summer months.

4. Clear Lake (Wasco County)

Best for: Non-motorized fishing, clarity, fewer crowds
Not to be confused with other “Clear Lakes” in Oregon, this alpine lake near the Warm Springs Reservation offers crystal-clear water, stocked trout, and a tranquil setting. It’s non-motorized, which means fewer wake disruptions and a more peaceful experience.

5. Sandy River

Best for: Steelhead, year-round access, fly fishing
Originating from the glaciers of Mt. Hood, the Sandy River flows west toward the Columbia and supports both winter and summer steelhead runs. For fly fishers and those chasing bigger catches, the Sandy offers solid opportunities — especially near Marmot Dam and Dodge Park.

6. Zigzag River and Salmon River

Best for: Fly fishing, native fish, scenic streams
These two rivers offer quieter, more technical fishing for those looking to escape the crowds. They’re smaller tributaries but rich in native cutthroat and wild scenery. Bring your waders, barbless hooks, and some patience — it’s worth it.

Know Before You Go

  • Always check current fishing regulations at myodfw.com.

  • Respect private land boundaries and pack out all trash.

  • Some lakes and rivers may require a Northwest Forest Pass for access or parking.

  • Stocking schedules are updated regularly by the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife: View Stocking Levels

Final Cast

Mt. Hood isn’t just a backdrop — it’s a destination for anglers of all kinds. Whether you're tossing a fly into a shaded stream or paddling out onto an alpine lake at dawn, there's something special about casting a line with the mountain standing watch.

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