If you’re looking to cast a line in some of Oregon’s finest waters, Roseburg and the surrounding Umpqua Valley is a true angler’s paradise. Between trophy trout, feisty bass, and stunning steelhead, the local fisheries offer something for everyone. With guides available to tailor trips to your style and skill, Roseburg offers both adventure and serenity. From river bends to mountain lakes, Roseburg is a top-tier fishing destination in Oregon. Whether you’re a seasoned fly-fisher or casting for family fun, this region wraps fishing, natural beauty, and outdoor culture into every outing. So pack your rod, grab your license, and reel in memories along the beautiful Umpqua.
North Umpqua River: Fly-Fishing Heaven
Just east of Roseburg, the North Umpqua River offers 33.8 miles of fly‑fishing only section. Its emerald-hued waters filled with steelhead, Chinook and coho salmon, and cutthroats. As one of the most celebrated fly-fishing rivers in the Pacific Northwest, it’s often called the “graduate school of fly fishing”. Winter steelhead run from January through April, and summer runs begin in spring, creating year-round angling opportunities.
Guided Adventures
Whether you’re chasing steelhead or bass, local guides bring elite expertise. Guided excursions on the Umpqua River can help even the most seasoned angler find salmon, steelhead, bass, and shad. Beyond helping people catch fish in the rivers around Roseburg, some guides will even take clients crabbing on the coast near Winchester Bay.
A full list of fishing guides in the area can be found here.
The Main Umpqua River
The main Umpqua River is home to salmon, steelhead, shad, and smallmouth bass. Spots like Cleveland Rapids, James Woods Boat Ramp, and the Elkton Boat Ramp are great places to fish or put your drift boat into the river.
Cooper Creek Reservoir & Ben Irving Reservoir
If you prefer to fish in calmer waters, head just north of Roseburg to Cooper Creek Reservoir—a 160‑acre hotspot for largemouth bass, panfish, and stocked rainbow trout, with easy boat and bank access. Meanwhile, Ben Irving Reservoir, around 18 miles southeast of Tenmile, is a premier destination for trout, bass, and bluegill.
Diamond Lake and Lemolo Lake
Roughly 35 miles east of Roseburg in the Cascade Mountain Range, Diamond Lake is renowned for its rainbow and brook trout and is a winter ice-fishing favorite. Nestled among snow-patched peaks, it offers a stunning backdrop to an unforgettable fishing trip. Nearby Lemolo Lake is also known for its great trout fishing.
Tips for Angling the Umpqua Waters
- When to go: Winter (Jan–Apr) = steelhead; Spring/Summer = bass and trout; Fall = Chinook salmon.
- Regulations: Always carry an Oregon fishing license and check seasonal rules—many stretches manage catch-and-release or fly‑only zones.
- Be sure to bring a local map or check online to find the best boat ramps, bank-access areas, and motor restrictions. Winter waters are especially scenic and uncrowded, but be aware of high waters.
- The coast is only 90 minutes away from Roseburg, Winchester Bay is a great place to do some ocean fishing or crabbing!
