Fishing Cleawox Lake: Honeyman Park, Florence Oregon 

Located within Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park and just a short drive south of Florence, Oregon, the lake offers something for every type of fisherman—from the novice casting from the shore to the experienced angler paddling a kayak into secluded coves. Beyond fishing, the area also provides hiking trails, dunes, and a range of outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or weekend camping adventure.

A Scenic & Unique Coastal Lake

Cleawox Lake covers approximately 87 acres, with a maximum depth of around 48 feet. Its waters are unusually clear for a coastal lake, allowing for incredible visibility when fishing from the shore or a small boat. The lake is naturally formed, influenced by coastal streams, glacial movements, and the ever-shifting sand dunes that dominate the landscape. These dunes are dynamic—some advancing 15–20 feet per year—continually reshaping the lake’s shoreline and creating new fishing spots over time.

The lake sits roughly 75 feet above sea level, bordered on one side by dense shore pine forests and on the other by towering sand dunes. This unique combination of environments provides not only scenic beauty but also diverse fish habitats. Wildlife is abundant: ospreys and herons patrol the shores, deer sometimes wander near the dunes, and migratory birds frequently stop at the lake, offering nature lovers plenty of photographic opportunities between casts.

Access & Fishing Spots

Cleawox Lake is entirely within Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park, making access simple and convenient. The park provides several points ideal for anglers:

• Fishing Pier: A large, accessible pier offers easy casting from shore and is perfect for families with children or those who prefer to stay on dry land.
  
  
• Shoreline Access: Several quiet spots around the lake allow for wading and bank fishing. The gently sloping banks make it easy to reach water without disturbing fish.
  
  
• Boat Launch: Non-motorized boats, such as kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards, can be launched from designated areas. Motorized boats are prohibited, ensuring the lake remains peaceful and undisturbed.
  
  

Additional park amenities, including picnic areas, swimming platforms, and trails, make it easy to combine fishing with other recreational activities. The lake’s clear water reveals underwater logs, vegetation, and subtle drop-offs, which are excellent spots for targeting bass or observing trout behavior.

Fish Species & Angling Opportunities

Cleawox Lake supports a variety of species, offering year-round fishing opportunities:

• Rainbow Trout: Stocked annually by the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW), Cleawox Lake is well-known for its trout population. The prime months are February through early June, when larger “trophy” fish are sometimes introduced.
  
  
• Largemouth Bass: Present year-round, bass are often found around submerged logs, weed beds, and dune-edge structures. They respond well to top-water lures, soft plastics, and spinnerbaits.
  
  
• Coastal Cutthroat Trout: Native to the region, these trout are more challenging to catch but provide rewarding angling for experienced fishermen.
  
  
• Other Species: Crappie, bluegill, yellow perch, and brown bullhead provide additional diversity for anglers looking to try different techniques.
  
  

The lake’s shallow areas warm quickly in spring and summer, attracting bass and bluegill, while deeper cooler spots offer a retreat for trout and cutthroat. The variety makes Cleawox Lake an ideal destination for anglers seeking both action and scenic beauty.

Fishing Techniques & Timing

Spring (Feb–June): Stocking season makes this the ideal time for trout. Small baits, such as worms, mealworms, or artificial nibbles, work best. Morning and late afternoon are peak feeding times.

Summer: Bass fishing takes center stage. Warmer waters push bass into shallow areas, particularly near structures and sunken logs. Soft plastics, crankbaits, or spinnerbaits are highly effective.

Year-Round: Bank fishing is productive throughout the year, particularly for sunfish, crappie, and bass. Non-motorized boating allows anglers to reach less-pressured areas, providing an advantage for catching larger fish.

Insider Tips:

• Use light tackle for trout, particularly right after stocking.
  
  
• Paddle quietly to avoid spooking bass in shallow coves.
  
  
• Early morning and late evening provide both cooler temperatures and active fish.

Regulations & Safety

• Licensing: All anglers 14 and older need an Oregon fishing license.
  
  
• Parking and Day-Use Permits: A day-use permit is required for parking at Honeyman State Park; campers already have access covered by their reservation.
  
  
• Boating Restrictions: Only non-motorized boats are allowed. Life jackets are recommended for all boaters, and underwater hazards are clearly marked.
  
  
• Catch Limits: Adhere to ODFW regulations regarding catch limits and sizes, particularly for trout and bass.
  
  

Camping & Nearby Activities

Honeyman State Park provides over 350 campsites, yurts, and RV hookups. Staying overnight lets anglers take advantage of early morning fishing or late evening sessions when fish are most active. Seasonal rentals for kayaks, paddleboards, and pedal boats make it easy to explore the lake from a different perspective.

Beyond fishing, visitors can hike the dunes and forested trails, birdwatch, or enjoy a picnic near the water. Nearby Woahink Lake offers additional fishing and recreational options, making the area ideal for a multi-day coastal adventure.

History & Ecology

Cleawox Lake is an ecological and cultural landmark. The surrounding dunes are ancient and dynamic, slowly encroaching on the lake and reshaping its environment. The lake and nearby forested areas are home to diverse wildlife, including migratory birds, amphibians, and mammals, making it a hotspot for nature enthusiasts.

Historically, the area was used by Native American tribes who relied on the lake and surrounding forests for food and resources. Today, the lake remains a carefully managed natural resource, with ODFW stocking programs and park conservation efforts maintaining its delicate balance.

Recommended 2-Day Fishing Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

• Morning: Arrive at Honeyman State Park, set up camp, and explore the dunes.
  
  
• Midday: Fish from the pier or shoreline, targeting stocked trout.
  
  
• Afternoon: Paddle a kayak to deeper areas for bass and cutthroat trout.
  
  
• Evening: Sunset fishing along the northern shoreline; dinner at the campsite.
  
  

Day 2: Extended Angling and Adventure

• Early Morning: Canoe or kayak out to quiet coves for bass.
  
  
• Late Morning: Hike one of the dunes’ trails to scout fishing areas and enjoy panoramic views.
  
  
• Midday: Try shore fishing on the western bank for crappie and perch.
  
  
• Afternoon: Pack up, enjoy a picnic, and consider a visit to Woahink Lake for a last fishing session before departure.
  
  

Cleawox Lake provides an immersive experience where anglers can engage with nature, witness shifting landscapes, and enjoy some of the best coastal fishing in Oregon. You can cast for trophy trout, paddle to a quiet cove, or bring the family for a weekend getaway, Cleawox Lake remains one of the Oregon Coast’s hidden treasures.

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