Angling and fly fishing are available at more than 340 national wildlife refuges, 35 wetland management districts, almost 20 national fish hatcheries, and other U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lands and waters. Virtually every type of sport fishing is represented. At Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, fishing is allowed at several locations aimed at successful take for experienced fly-fishers and casual anglers along the upper Blitzen River and a portion of the East Canal and tributaries for redband trout, and along the river near the Refuge headquarters for non-native carp. Year-round reservoir fishing opportunity at Krumbo Reservoir aimed at providing successful trout and bass fishing for beginners, casual and local anglers.
Anglers must follow state and federal regulations. Check individual sites for season dates and size, day and possession limits.
Rules and Policies
Please observe and follow Refuge Rules and Policies for your safety and to protect wildlife and their habitat.
- ODFW Regulations Highlights
- Oregon Fishing Southeast Zone Regulations
- Refuge Map and Regulations
- Fishing Brochure
Where to Fish
Blitzen River - Headquarters Fishing Unit (Stream Fisheries)
A total of one mile along the north bank of the Blitzen River from Sodhouse Lane to the bridge is open to non-native carp. Season from August 1 - September 15. Boats are not permitted. Artificial flies and lures only. ODFW fishing southeast zone regulations apply.
Exceptions to zone regulations:
- Catch-and-release for trout
Blitzen River - South Fishing Loop (Stream Fisheries)
A total of 21 miles along the mainstem of the Blitzen River, a portion of the East Canal, and tributaries upstream of Page Springs Dam and Bridge Creek open to redband trout. Year-round fisheries. Artificial flies and lures only. Fishing is not permitted within 200 feet upstream or downstream of fish passageways. Boats are not permitted. Drive-in access on East Canal Road may be closed when road conditions are hazardous. ODFW fishing southeast zone regulations apply.
Exceptions to zone regulations:
- Catch-and-release for trout
- Below Bridge Creek is closed, except from Sodhouse Lane to the bridge on the Boat Landing Road from August 1 - September 15
Krumbo Reservoir (Reservoir Fishery)
A total of 184 acres in size. It is not a natural water body and is annually stocked with sterilized rainbow trout through ODFW. Year-round fisheries. Krumbo Creek above the reservoir is open. Fishing below the reservoir is closed. Use of bait allowed. Non-motorized boats and electric boats are permitted, except when ice is present at the boat launch. Drive-in access to the reservoir may be closed when road conditions are hazardous. Call (541) 493-2612 for current road conditions. ODFW fishing southeast zone regulations apply.
Exceptions to zone regulations:
- Closed to ice fishing and any physical access to ice formation is prohibited