Fishing near Medford, Oregon
Discover the top places for fishing near Medford, Oregon, in this 2025 guide. Learn about rivers, lakes, gear tips, licenses, and more.
Introduction: Medford’s Gateway to Southern Oregon Fishing
Located in the heart of the Rogue Valley, Medford, Oregon is a paradise for anglers. With its mild climate, diverse landscapes, and easy access to mountain lakes and famous rivers, Medford offers fishing opportunities year-round. Whether you're chasing wild steelhead in the Rogue River or trolling for kokanee in Applegate Lake, this region has something for everyone—from seasoned fly fishers to weekend bank anglers.
Fish Species You Can Catch Near Medford
Southern Oregon waters are rich in variety. Here's what you can expect to catch:
- Rainbow Trout & Cutthroat Trout – Found in nearly all lakes and rivers.
- Steelhead – Winter and summer runs in the Rogue and Applegate Rivers.
- Chinook & Coho Salmon – Seasonal runs in the Rogue River.
- Largemouth & Smallmouth Bass – Popular in warmwater lakes.
- Kokanee Salmon – Found in deeper reservoirs like Applegate and Lost Creek.
- Catfish, Bluegill & Crappie – Common in Emigrant and Agate Lakes.
Prime Fishing Lakes Near Medford, Oregon
Applegate Lake
Located 45 minutes southwest of Medford, Applegate Lake is known for kokanee, rainbow trout, and smallmouth bass. Fish near the dam for kokanee or troll deeper sections during summer.
Emigrant Lake
Just outside of town, Emigrant is stocked with trout in spring and fall. It also supports bass, catfish, and panfish. Great for families and kayak anglers.
Lost Creek Lake
A large reservoir northeast of Medford with great facilities and consistent trout fishing. Trolling and bank fishing are popular methods here. Holds chinook, rainbow trout, and even some landlocked steelhead.
Howard Prairie & Hyatt Lake
High-elevation lakes east of Ashland with excellent spring and early summer trout fishing. Cooler temps and scenic views make them great camping and fishing destinations.
Best Rivers for Fishing Near Medford
Rogue River
A world-class steelhead and salmon fishery, the Rogue runs from Crater Lake to the Pacific Ocean. Near Medford, it offers summer and winter steelhead, spring and fall Chinook, and resident trout. Use spinners, drift gear, or flies depending on the season.
Applegate River
Smaller and more intimate than the Rogue, the Applegate is a popular winter steelhead destination. Fly anglers enjoy solitude and challenge here. Only open to catch-and-release trout fishing in summer months.
Bear Creek
An urban stream flowing right through Medford. While smaller and more sensitive, it can hold seasonal steelhead and trout in cooler months. Best fished after rainfall when water levels rise.
Fishing Seasons in the Rogue Valley
| Season | Target Species | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (March–May) | Trout, Spring Chinook | Stocked lakes and spring salmon runs |
| Summer (June–Aug) | Bass, Summer Steelhead | Trolling lakes, early/late river fishing |
| Fall (Sept–Nov) | Fall Chinook, Trout | Peak Rogue salmon action |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Steelhead | Winter run steelhead in Rogue/Applegate |
Fishing Tactics for Medford’s Lakes and Rivers
- Still Fishing: PowerBait, worms, and salmon eggs for stocked trout.
- Trolling: Flashers and spoons for deeper lakes like Lost Creek and Applegate.
- Drift Fishing: Roe and yarn for steelhead in the Rogue.
- Bass Techniques: Soft plastics, spinnerbaits, and jigs in Emigrant and Agate Lakes.
Fly Fishing Opportunities Near Medford
Fly anglers love Southern Oregon for:
- Rogue River: Dry-dropper setups and swing flies for steelhead.
- Applegate River: Great for indicator nymphing and small streamers.
- Bear Creek & Small Tributaries: Use Elk Hair Caddis, Adams, and Prince Nymphs.
A 5–6 wt rod is perfect for trout; use 7–8 wt gear for steelhead.
Family-Friendly Fishing Locations Around Medford
- Emigrant Lake (near the park) – Bathrooms, parking, and picnic spots.
- Agate Lake – Gentle shoreline, good for bluegill and bass.
- Howard Prairie – Great camping and lots of trout for kids.
Use bobbers and bait for an easy and fun experience.
Where to Get Gear: Local Tackle Shops in Medford
- Sportsman’s Warehouse – Medford – Huge selection of rods, lures, and bait.
- Black Bird Shopping Center – Local staple for fishing gear and licenses.
- Rogue Fly Shop – Grants Pass – Excellent for fly anglers targeting the Rogue.
Oregon Fishing Licenses and Regulations
To fish legally:
- Angling License Required for ages 12+.
- Combined Angling Tag for salmon and steelhead.
- Barbless hooks often required for wild fish.
- Check closures, seasons, and limits at myodfw.com.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fishing Near Medford, Oregon
Q1: What’s the best lake near Medford for trout?
Applegate Lake and Lost Creek Lake are both excellent for stocked and holdover trout.
Q2: When is steelhead season in the Rogue River?
Summer steelhead run from July–October; winter steelhead peak from January–March.
Q3: Can I fish in Medford city limits?
Yes—Bear Creek and Emigrant Lake are very close to town.
Q4: Do I need a boat to fish lakes near Medford?
No—but a kayak or boat helps on larger reservoirs like Lost Creek. Bank fishing is effective too.
Q5: Are there bass near Medford?
Yes—Emigrant Lake, Agate Lake, and Applegate Lake all hold largemouth and smallmouth bass.
Q6: What’s the best fly fishing river near Medford?
The Rogue River offers the best variety and challenge for fly anglers.
Conclusion: Hook Into Southern Oregon’s Fishing Scene
Whether you’re casting into a tranquil alpine lake or chasing steelhead in the legendary Rogue River, fishing near Medford, Oregon is a year-round adventure full of possibilities. With countless options just a short drive from town, this region is a true gem for anglers of all skill levels. Grab your rod, check your regs, and get out there—your next big catch is waiting.