Oregon · Fishing
Fishing in Deer Island, Oregon
Deer Island sits in Columbia County along the west bank of the Columbia River, and the fishing around this small rural community is almost entirely stillwater.
4 spotsUpdated dailyFree to access
View on mapFishing · 4 spots
Deer Island sits in Columbia County along the west bank of the Columbia River, and the fishing around this small rural community is almost entirely stillwater. The four spots listed here — Resting Lake, Benham Slough, and Swan Lake — are all lake or slough fisheries, meaning you're working calm, often weedy water rather than current. Benham Slough in particular shows up twice in the local listings, which reflects how much access it offers along its length. These are not destination trophy fisheries with stocked trophy programs or gold-medal designations; they're the kind of quiet, accessible spots that reward anglers who know how to work soft structure and don't mind sharing the bank with herons. If you're driving up from the Portland metro area, the run is short enough to make an early morning trip realistic without an overnight stay. Expect shallow, vegetated margins, and gear your approach accordingly — light to medium spinning tackle, bobber rigs, or slow-retrieved soft plastics tend to outperform heavy hardware in water like this.
Frequently asked questions
What types of water will I be fishing around Deer Island?
All four listed spots are classified as lake or slough fishing — Resting Lake, Swan Lake, and Benham Slough are stillwater environments. Benham Slough is a slough system, so expect slower, connected water with emergent vegetation rather than open lake conditions.
What gear setup makes sense for these lakes and sloughs?
Light to medium spinning gear in the 6- to 8-pound line range is a practical starting point for slough and small-lake fishing. Bobber-and-worm rigs, small jigs, and slow-moving soft plastics work well around weedy edges. Leave the heavy hardware at home — these aren't big open-water fisheries.
When is the best time of day to fish Resting Lake or Benham Slough?
Early morning is generally the most productive window for stillwater fishing in western Oregon, before surface temperatures rise and fish push deeper or into shade. Late evening can also be productive, especially in summer when midday heat slows things down.
Do I need a fishing license to fish these spots?
Yes. Oregon requires a valid state fishing license for anyone 12 and older. You can purchase one through the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife website or at local sporting goods retailers. Check the current ODFW regulations booklet for any site-specific rules before you go, as slough access points can have local restrictions.
Is this area suitable for beginners or families?
Stillwater fishing on lakes and sloughs is generally a good fit for beginners and younger anglers — there's no current to manage and the pace is slower. Benham Slough's multiple access points along its length give you options if one spot is crowded or unproductive.
