Fishing Lake Marie, Umpqua Lighthouse State Park, Winchester Bay Oregon
So, I decided to take a weekend trip out to Lake Marie. I’d heard it was a great spot for fishing, and after a stressful work week, I really needed to get out in nature and just relax with a rod in my hand.
Lake Marie is tucked away in the Umpqua National Forest, which means it’s surrounded by dense old-growth trees, fresh pine smells, and the kind of quiet that you don’t get anywhere else. No traffic, no honking, just the sound of water lapping against the shore and birds doing their thing. When I got there, I learned that the lake is stocked three times a year with rainbow trout, which is awesome because it means there’s almost always some good fish action going on.
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife makes sure these trout populations stay healthy and ready for anglers. I even spotted some signs near the boat launch detailing the last stocking dates, so you know the fish aren’t just hanging around naturally—they’re part of a managed ecosystem designed for fishing fun. Aside from rainbow trout, Lake Marie also has cutthroat trout, which are a bit trickier to catch but way cooler when you land one. They’re known for their beautiful coloring and fighting spirit. There are also some brook trout in the mix, which adds a nice variety if you’re trying different lures or flies.
The fishing itself? Man, it was a blast. I used a fly rod most of the time because casting into those calm, clear waters felt like an art form. The trout weren’t just nibbling—they were practically doing gymnastics to get away once they bit.
One thing that really stuck with me was how much the local wildlife was part of the whole experience. Frogs croaked near the shore, dragonflies buzzed around like they were checking out my casting skills (or lack thereof), and I even caught a glimpse of a kingfisher swooping down for breakfast.
When I wasn’t trying to wrestle a trout, I took some time to hike around the lake. The trails wind through mossy forests with giant trees.I found a perfect spot for a picnic and just sat there, soaking it all in. The air is crisp, clean, and full of that earthy forest smell that’s like a reset button for your brain. By the time evening rolled around, I was back at the lake shore watching the sun set. The water turned into this perfect mirror reflecting the fiery sky. I laid back on a rock, looked up, and the stars started popping out like nature’s own light show. The Milky Way was visible, which was a nice reminder that sometimes the best moments come from just stopping and looking up.
Now, if you’re serious about landing some of the bigger trout at Lake Marie, here’s the deal: The big ones love to hang out around deeper pockets of the lake, especially near submerged logs, rocky outcrops, or where cool water flows in from small creeks. Early morning and late afternoon are prime times when the trout get active and start hunting.
For bait and tackle, here’s what worked for me: If you’re fly fishing, try using nymph patterns or small streamers that imitate the bugs in the area — something like a Pheasant Tail or Woolly Bugger usually does the trick. If you’re spinning, I’d recommend using small spinners or spoons in silver or gold because those flash well in the clear water and catch trout’s attention. Live bait like worms or power bait also work, especially if you’re fishing from the shore or a dock. Just make sure you don’t overdo it — trout here can be picky, and sometimes a simple presentation beats fancy rigs.
If you’re a guy who likes fishing, or just needs a solid weekend escape, this place is worth the trip. Just don't forget to bring your fishing gear.
