Green Peter isn't the kokanee trip older descriptions might lead you to expect. Drawdowns have badly affected that fishery, and recent fishing information focuses on trout and smallmouth when access allows. Right now, checking whether you can reach the water comes before choosing tackle.
Lake facts
- Size: About 3,500 mapped acres in the Oregon Lakes Atlas
- Fishery: Trout and smallmouth bass; the former kokanee fishery has declined sharply
- Current access issue: Deep seasonal drawdowns can leave ramps unusable and banks unstable
Access at the lake
Thistle Creek and Whitcomb Creek are the recreation areas to look up. In the September 21, 2026 report, both ramps were out of the water and banks were too steep and unstable for safe access. A named launch on a map doesn't help if the reservoir has dropped below it.
The drawdown
That report said the conditions would last until at least February 1, when storage begins. Check for a current update before treating that as a reopening date. Deep seasonal drawdowns are part of the reservoir's operation, so don't plan a fall trip around a photograph of summer water. Wait for confirmed access instead of scrambling down exposed banks.
Planning a visit
Once the lake is accessible, plan around the fishery that is there now rather than its old kokanee reputation. Trout and bass will need different water and tackle. During the low-water period, use only recreation areas confirmed open for any shore stop or picnic. Check both the lake conditions and facility notices before making the drive.
Nearby fishing waters
Explore nearby waters, including local Featured destinations. Check each page for access and fishing restrictions.
Distances are straight-line estimates between mapped water locations.