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Oregon · Fishing
Gardiner, Oregon sits at the mouth of the Umpqua River on the central Oregon coast, but the fishing options listed here focus on still water rather than the tidal estuary.
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Gardiner, Oregon sits at the mouth of the Umpqua River on the central Oregon coast, but the fishing options listed here focus on still water rather than the tidal estuary. Carter Lake, Butterfly Lake, and Lost Lake are the three lake fishing destinations in this area, each offering a quieter alternative to the busy coastal rivers nearby. These are small coastal lakes typical of the Oregon dunes corridor, generally shallow and accessible without a boat, though a kayak or canoe opens up more of the water. Expect warm-water and stocked trout fishing depending on the season and which lake you're targeting. None of the lakes in this listing carry a gold medal or wild trout designation, so the experience here is more about a relaxed outing than trophy hunting. That said, these lakes can fish well in spring and early summer before water temperatures climb, and again in fall after ODFW stocking cycles resume. Access is generally straightforward, making this a reasonable option for families or anglers who want a low-pressure day on the water without navigating coastal river regulations.
All three are lake fishing destinations in the Oregon coastal dunes area. Stocked rainbow trout are the primary target at lakes like these during ODFW stocking periods, typically spring and fall. Warm-water species such as yellow perch and largemouth bass are also present in some coastal dune lakes, though you should check the current ODFW regulations and stocking reports for each specific water body before your trip.
You can fish all three from shore, but a kayak, canoe, or float tube will significantly expand your options, especially on Carter Lake and Lost Lake where the shoreline can be brushy or marshy in spots. Non-motorized watercraft are well suited to these smaller lakes and let you reach calmer coves away from any bank anglers.
Lost Lake
~1 min drive
A worthwhile stop near OR.
Carter Lake
~4 min drive
A worthwhile stop near OR.
Butterfly Lake
~5 min drive
A worthwhile stop near OR.
Siltcoos Lagoon
~7 min drive
A worthwhile stop near OR.
Woahink Lake
~9 min drive
A worthwhile stop near OR.
Woahink Lake
~12 min drive
A worthwhile stop near OR.
Cleawox Lake
~14 min drive
A worthwhile stop near OR.
Glenada Ponds
~15 min drive
A worthwhile stop near OR.
Shuttpelz Lake
~26 min drive
A worthwhile stop near OR.
McKeown Reservoir
~38 min drive
A worthwhile stop near OR.
Horsfall Lake
~45 min drive
A worthwhile stop near OR.
Bluebill Lake
~45 min drive
A worthwhile stop near OR.
Also worth it near here
Spring, roughly April through early June, is generally the most productive window when water temperatures are cool and ODFW stocking is active. Fall, from September into November, is the other reliable period. Midsummer fishing slows as surface temperatures rise in shallow coastal lakes, and early morning outings will outperform midday sessions during warmer months.
A light to medium spinning setup in the 6 to 7 foot range covers most situations. For stocked trout, PowerBait, small spinners, and worms are reliable producers. If you're targeting warm-water species, bring a selection of small jigs and soft plastics. Pack rain gear regardless of the forecast since the Oregon coast can turn wet quickly.
Yes, lake fishing on still water with stocked trout is one of the more beginner-friendly setups you can find. The lack of strong current and the predictability of stocked fish make Carter Lake, Butterfly Lake, and Lost Lake reasonable choices for a first fishing trip. Oregon requires a fishing license for anyone 12 and older, so make sure younger anglers in that age range are covered before you go.
