Dexter Reservoir, OR

DEXTER RESERIVOIR - Situated in the Willamette Valley, approximately 16 miles southeast of Eugene, Oregon. It's easily accessible via Highway 58. The reservoir covers an area of about 1,150 acres when full, providing ample space for water-based activities.

It is well-known for its fishing opportunities. There are a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, and brown bullhead. The reservoir is regularly stocked with trout to maintain healthy fish populations.

Much of the fishing public target Smallmouth Bass and or Rainbow Trout, especially during the prime fishing season from mid-spring to late fall.

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At Dexter Reservoir, rainbow trout are commonly caught using a variety of baits, depending on your fishing style. Here are some of the most popular baits.

1.-- Power Bait & Dough Baits Best colors: Chartreuse, rainbow, garlic-scented, or orange Setup: Use a sliding sinker rig with a small treble or single hook, keeping the bait floating off the bottom

2. -- Nightcrawlers Best method: Fish under a bobber or with a bottom rig Enhance it: Add a marshmallow or piece of PowerBait to help float it off the bottom

3.-- Salmon Eggs Effective for stocked trout, especially near inlets and rocky shorelines Use a small hook and light leader for a natural presentation

4.-- Spinners & Lures Top choices: Rooster Tails, Panther Martins, Blue Fox Vibrax, or Kastmasters Best colors: Gold, silver, or bright colors (pink, orange, or chartreuse)

5. Crankbaits & Small Jigs Small Rapalas, or Kastmasters have a reputation of working well in deeper areas.

SMALLMOUTH BASS: "Good Fighters". (A couple of proven Spots) at Dexter Reservoir for fishermen are Near the dam and around points and drop-offs. Do include Riprap structures, Creek inlets, submerged trees,near boat docks and shallow flats.

Popular Baits for Dexter Lake Smallmouthed Bass.

1. Soft Plastic Baits Top choices: Senkos, tube baits, crawfish imitations, and finesse worms

Best setup: Texas rig, drop shot, or Ned rig

Best colors: Green pumpkin, watermelon, or brown

2. Crankbaits & Jerkbaits Best types: Medium-diving crankbaits, lipless crankbaits, and suspending jerkbaits

Best colors: Shad, crawfish, or chartreuse

When to use: Spring and fall when bass are more active

3. Topwater Lures (Morning & Evening) Best choices: Pop-R, Whopper Plopper, Zara Spook, or buzzbaits

Best conditions: Low light or overcast days near structure

4. Spinnerbaits & Chatterbaits Best conditions: Windy or stained water

Colors: White, chartreuse, or bluegill patterns

5. Live Bait Best choices: Nightcrawlers, crayfish, or minnows

Rigging: Under a bobber or Carolina rig

Near boat docks and shallow flats

Park(s): Lowell Park-- Day use only-- offers swimming, boating, fishing, playground, and picnicking. Marina with rentals, swim beach, and boat ramp. Open year-round. Call 800-452-5687 for reservations.

Camping: There are several campgrounds near Dexter Reservoir where visitors can enjoy overnight stays. Dexter State Recreation Site, located on the reservoir's northern shore, offers campsites with facilities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms. Camping provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area and easy access to fishing and other recreational activities.

Hiking: While there are no designated hiking trails around Dexter Reservoir, visitors can explore the surrounding area on foot. Dexter State Recreation Site features open spaces and shoreline areas where visitors can enjoy leisurely walks while taking in the natural beauty of the reservoir and its surroundings.

Wildlife Watching: Dexter Reservoir and its surrounding habitat support a variety of wildlife species, including waterfowl, songbirds, mammals, and reptiles. Birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy observing these animals in their natural habitat while exploring the reservoir's shoreline and nearby wooded areas.

Boating: Boating is a popular activity at Dexter Reservoir, with opportunities for motorized and non-motorized watercraft. Visitors can launch boats from the Dexter State Recreation Site boat ramp and enjoy cruising, water skiing, tubing, or simply exploring the reservoir's scenic shores. Boat rentals available.

Overall, Dexter Reservoir offers a range of outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing, camping, boating, wildlife watching, and hiking, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in the Willamette Valley region of Oregon.