Conconully Reservoir is a small, shallow lake in north-central Washington that holds largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and panfish

Conconully Reservoir sits in Okanogan County, about 30 miles north of Wenatchee in the foothills between the Cascade Range and the Columbia Plateau. The lake covers roughly 1,000 acres when full, though water levels drop significantly in late summer and fall. It is a warmwater fishery, meaning the water stays warm enough year-round to support bass and sunfish rather than cold-water trout species.

The reservoir is managed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and is open to the public. It is a working water supply for local irrigation, so expect the lake to be lower in August and September than it is in spring. The shoreline is mostly accessible, with a public boat launch and several informal fishing spots along the eastern shore.

Key Takeaways

  • Largemouth and smallmouth bass are the primary target species, with panfish (bluegill and crappie) available year-round in shallower areas.
  • The lake is shallowest in late summer when irrigation demands peak, so plan spring and early summer trips for the most water and easier access.
  • A Washington fishing license is required; check current WDFW regulations for bass season dates and daily catch limits before you go.
  • The boat launch is located on the north end of the reservoir near the town of Conconully, with parking and basic facilities available.
  • Largemouth bass respond well to soft plastics and topwater lures in spring; smallmouth bass prefer deeper structure and harder baits in summer.

Species and Seasonal Patterns

Largemouth bass are the most abundant gamefish in Conconully Reservoir. They spawn in shallow bays and along the eastern shoreline in April and May, making spring the best time to catch them on topwater plugs and soft plastics near vegetation and fallen trees. As water temperatures climb into the 70s and 80s in June and July, largemouth move to deeper structure — look for them around submerged logs, rock piles, and the old creek channel that runs through the middle of the lake.

Smallmouth bass are present but less numerous than largemouth. They prefer rocky areas and deeper water, especially along the dam and the western shoreline where the bottom drops off more steeply. Smallmouth bite consistently through summer and fall on crankbaits, tube jigs, and live crayfish. They are more active in cooler water, so your best smallmouth fishing often comes in early morning or late evening during the heat of summer.

Panfish — bluegill, crappie, and pumpkinseed sunfish — are abundant in the shallows year-round. Spring and early summer are peak times, when they move into water less than 8 feet deep to spawn. Small jigs tipped with live worms or maggots, or tiny spinners, will produce steady action. Panfish fishing remains decent through fall, and some anglers find good results in winter if they are willing to fish from shore.

Access and Boat Launch

The primary public access point is the Conconully Reservoir boat launch, located on the north end of the lake near the town of Conconully. The launch is a concrete ramp with a parking lot that holds roughly 20 vehicles. There is no fee to launch, and the facility is maintained by Okanogan County. The launch is open year-round, though winter snow can occasionally close the access road for brief periods.

Bank fishing is possible along much of the eastern and northern shoreline. The road that runs along the north side of the reservoir provides several pull-offs where you can fish from shore or wade in shallow areas. The western shoreline is less accessible due to private property, so stick to the public areas on the north and east sides.

The nearest town with fuel, food, and lodging is Conconully, which sits immediately north of the reservoir. Okanogan, about 20 miles south, has more services including grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants. The drive from Wenatchee takes roughly 45 minutes via US-97 north and local roads.

Regulations and Licensing

You must have a valid Washington fishing license to fish Conconully Reservoir. Licenses are sold online through the WDFW website, at sporting goods stores, and at many convenience stores throughout the state. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license if you are only planning a single trip.

Bass seasons and daily catch limits change year to year. As of recent years, largemouth and smallmouth bass have been open year-round with a daily limit of five fish per species (combined limit of five total in some years — check current rules). Panfish typically have no closed season and a generous daily limit. The WDFW publishes an annual fishing pamphlet and maintains current regulations on its website; download or print the current rules before you go, as regulations do change.

Conconully Reservoir is not a catch-and-release-only fishery, so you may keep fish within the legal limit. However, some anglers practice catch-and-release to preserve the fishery, especially for larger bass that may be breeding stock.

Tackle and Techniques

For largemouth bass in spring, topwater plugs and soft plastic worms work well in shallow water near cover. Throw a 5- to 7-inch worm on a Texas rig (rigged with a bullet sinker and offset hook) along the shoreline and let it fall slowly. In summer, when largemouth move deeper, switch to crankbaits that dive 8 to 12 feet, or use a Carolina rig to fish soft plastics along the creek channel.

Smallmouth bass respond to smaller, harder baits. A 2- to 3-inch crankbait or a tube jig (2 to 3 inches) fished slowly along rocky areas will produce. Live crayfish are excellent if you can obtain them. Fish early and late in the day when water temperatures are cooler.

For panfish, a simple setup of a small jig (1/32 to 1/16 ounce) tipped with a live worm or maggot, cast near shallow vegetation or fallen trees, will catch bluegill and crappie consistently. A light spinning rod and 4- to 6-pound test line are ideal. Panfish often school, so if you catch one, stay in that spot — more are likely nearby.

Water Levels and Timing

Conconully Reservoir is a storage lake for irrigation, so water levels fluctuate significantly with the seasons. The lake is typically highest in spring (April through June) when snowmelt feeds it and irrigation demand is lower. Water levels drop steadily through summer and reach their lowest point in late August and September when irrigation demand peaks.

Plan your trip for spring or early summer if you want the easiest access and the most water. The boat launch remains usable even when water is low, but you may have to navigate shallower channels to reach deeper fishing areas. In late summer, some of the shallow bays and coves that hold panfish in spring may be too shallow to fish effectively.

Fall and winter fishing is possible, but the lake is colder and less predictable. Bass bite less frequently, and panfish move deeper. However, if you are willing to fish slowly and patiently, you can still catch fish. Winter access depends on snow; the road to the launch is plowed, but heavy snow can close it temporarily.

What Makes Conconully Different

Conconully Reservoir is not a destination lake for most Washington anglers — it is a local fishery that rewards people who know it or are willing to spend time learning it. The lake is small enough that you can cover most of it in a day, but the water is shallow and weedy enough that finding fish requires attention to structure and seasonal movement.

The main advantage is lack of crowds. Unlike larger reservoirs in central Washington, Conconully rarely sees heavy pressure. If you are looking for a quiet morning of bass fishing or a relaxing afternoon catching panfish, this lake delivers. The downside is that the fish are not large — largemouth bass in the 2- to 4-pound range are typical, and 5-pounders are uncommon. If you are after trophy bass, you will find better odds at larger, deeper reservoirs like Banks Lake or the Columbia River.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to fish Conconully Reservoir?

Spring (April through June) is the most productive season. Water temperatures are rising, bass are spawning and feeding actively, and the lake is at or near full pool. Early summer (June and July) is also good, though afternoon heat can slow the bite. Summer afternoons are often slow; fish early morning or late evening instead.

Can I fish from shore, or do I need a boat?

You can fish from shore along the north and east sides of the reservoir, and you will catch panfish and some bass. A boat gives you access to deeper structure and more water, which increases your chances of finding larger bass. If you do not have a boat, focus on the shoreline near the launch and the pull-offs along the north road.

Are there any restrictions on boat size or motor type?

Conconully Reservoir allows motorboats. There is no posted horsepower limit, though the lake is small enough that a large motor is unnecessary. Sailboats and kayaks are also permitted. Check with Okanogan County or the WDFW for any current restrictions before launching.

What should I bring for a day trip?

Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat — the area is dry and sunny. The nearest services are in Conconully, so pack food and drinks if you plan to stay all day. A fishing license, current regulation pamphlet, and a map of the lake are essential. In spring and fall, bring a jacket; mornings and evenings are cool.

Is there camping near Conconully Reservoir?

Conconully State Park, located on the north end of the lake, has a campground with tent and RV sites. The park is open year-round, though some facilities may be limited in winter. Reservations are recommended in summer. Private RV parks and motels are also available in the town of Conconully.