Crane Prairie Reservoir Fishing Report

Crane Prairie is expected to become fishable again with the arrival of cooler weather as of early September 2026. Bass fishing has been strong near the Resort's coves, while trout fishing has been tough through much of the summer due to high water temps and an algae bloom.

Crane Prairie is cooling more slowly than other Cascade Lakes, limiting productive water to colder river channels and inflows for now. Conditions are expected to improve for trout as temperatures continue to fall through September.

Abundant rainbow trout in the 12-16 inch range and kokanee averaging 13-14 inches. Reservoir is 60% full and being drawn down; trout concentrating in cooler relic river channels in the Cultus and Quin River arms.

Water temps near Rock Creek are still reaching 72-74°F during the day, which is too warm for trout fishing. Bass fishing is occurring but trout anglers are advised to wait.

Crane Prairie requires the most cautious approach due to warm water temperatures. Morning fishing is the best option as fish move to deeper, cooler water as temperatures rise through the day.

Crane Prairie is beginning to show late-summer changes with warm water becoming a concern. Conditions are less favorable compared to nearby East Lake and Paulina Lake.

Anglers report abundant rainbow trout in the 12-16 inch range and kokanee averaging 13-14 inches. With warming surface water temperatures, trout can be found in the cooler relic river channels in the Cultus and Quin River arms.