The only ramp usable at Lost Creek Lake is the Takelma ramp operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers on the NW side of the lake. As winter conditions and still low water levels in other area lakes are present, this will be the most reliable local lake to fish during the winter and spring months. There is no accessible dock at the Takelma ramp. 

Trout fishing should be good. Legal and trophy trout were stocked in the fall, as well as sub-legals that will be of catchable size by spring. There’s plenty of holdover fish here as well. 

This past weekend, anglers reported catching trout of good size while trolling lures, and even a land-locked spring Chinook salmon was caught!  Bankies are also picking up some trout.

Trolling spinners, wedding rings and spoons all tipped with nightcrawlers do well up here.  .  

Joseph Stuart Recreation Area is managed by Jackson County Parks. All loops except “Loop A” are closed to camping. The boat ramp at the marina is closed due to low water. If you’re a frequent user of day use facilities here, a Jackson County Parks season pass is $40 and covers many other local Rogue Valley fishing destinations, as well. More information can be found on the Jackson County Parks website.

The lake is still well below average capacity for this time of year and is 29 percent full. The elevation is 1,794.8 ft. and surface temperature is a chilly 38 degrees Fahrenheit.  Afternoons are probably the best time to fish up here. Expect some cloud cover and possibly some rain this weekend, which should improve the bite as well.

Anglers can get the latest surface temperatures by calling the US Army Corps Lost Creek Lake and Applegate Reservoir projects information line at 1-800-472-2434.