Oregon · Fishing
Fishing in Frenchglen, Oregon
Frenchglen sits at the edge of the Steens Mountain high desert in southeastern Oregon, and the fishing here reflects that remote, self-reliant character.
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View on mapFishing · 7 spots
Frenchglen sits at the edge of the Steens Mountain high desert in southeastern Oregon, and the fishing here reflects that remote, self-reliant character. The seven stillwater spots in and around town — Upper Jack Creek Reservoir, Kundert Reservoir, Guano Reservoir, Knox Pond, Garrison Lake, Oreana Waterhole, and Bird Waterhole — are all lake or pond fisheries, meaning you're working calm water rather than chasing moving currents. That shapes everything: the gear you bring, the techniques that work, and the patience the fishing demands. These are not heavily pressured waters. Most of them see far fewer anglers in a season than a popular Willamette Valley lake sees on a single weekend. The tradeoff is that access can be rough, amenities are minimal, and you'll want to confirm current conditions before driving out on dirt roads that don't forgive flat tires lightly. Frenchglen itself is a small community with limited services, so plan your provisions, fuel, and gear before you arrive. If you're comfortable fishing stillwater with basic tackle and don't need a lodge or a bait shop around the corner, this corner of Harney County rewards the effort.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of fishing is available near Frenchglen?
All seven listed fisheries are stillwater — reservoirs, ponds, and waterholes. You're fishing lakes and impoundments rather than streams or rivers, so techniques like bank fishing with bait, float fishing, or casting small lures from shore are the practical approach. A small inflatable or float tube would expand your options on the larger reservoirs like Guano and Upper Jack Creek.
When is the best time of year to fish these waters?
Late spring through early summer is generally the most productive window, after ice-out and before summer heat drops oxygen levels and pushes fish deeper. Early morning and evening are your best times of day on warm summer days. Fall can also be solid as water temperatures cool again, but check road conditions before heading out late in the season.
Do I need a fishing license, and are there special regulations?
Yes, an Oregon fishing license is required for anyone 14 and older. Some of these waters may have specific bag limits or gear restrictions set by ODFW, and regulations can change year to year. Check the current Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations on the ODFW website before your trip rather than relying on last year's rules.
How difficult is access to these fishing spots?
Access varies. Several of these sites involve unpaved roads that can be rough or impassable when wet. A high-clearance vehicle is a practical asset for reaching spots like Guano Reservoir and Oreana Waterhole. Always check road conditions locally, especially in early spring or after rain, and carry a spare tire and basic recovery gear.
What gear should I bring for a fishing trip to Frenchglen?
A medium-light spinning rod with 6-8 lb monofilament covers most situations on these stillwater fisheries. Bring a range of small lures, PowerBait or similar dough bait, and a few bobber rigs. There are no bait shops in Frenchglen, so stock up in Burns before making the drive south on Highway 205.
