What Potholes Reservoir Offers

Potholes Reservoir is a 27,000-acre irrigation impoundment in central Washington, roughly 30 miles southwest of Spokane near the town of Othello. The lake holds largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, crappie, and catfish in substantial numbers, making it one of the state's most productive warm-water fisheries. The reservoir sits in semi-arid terrain with minimal development along its shoreline, which means you'll find fewer crowds than at western Washington lakes and more open water to explore.

The lake's depth varies widely—some arms reach 100 feet, while shallow bays rarely exceed 20 feet. This variation creates distinct fishing zones: deeper channels hold walleye and smallmouth bass in summer, while shallow flats and weed beds concentrate largemouth bass and crappie in spring and fall. The water clarity changes seasonally; spring runoff can cloud the lake, but by mid-summer visibility often improves to 8 to 12 feet.

Access is straightforward. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife maintains several boat launches and day-use areas around the perimeter. The main launch at Potholes State Park (on the south shore) has paved ramps, parking for trailers, and restrooms. Secondary launches exist at O'Sullivan Dam on the north end and at a few smaller access points, though not all are maintained year-round.

Key Takeaways

  • Potholes Reservoir holds largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, crappie, and catfish, with spring and fall typically the most productive seasons for bass.
  • The main boat launch is at Potholes State Park on the south shore, with paved ramps and day-use facilities; secondary launches exist but have limited services.
  • You must carry a valid Washington fishing license and follow state regulations, which include specific bag limits and seasonal closures that vary by species.
  • Summer water temperatures can exceed 75 degrees Fahrenheit, pushing fish deeper; spring and fall offer more consistent shallow-water action.
  • The reservoir sits 30 miles from Spokane in semi-arid terrain with minimal lodging nearby, so plan for a day trip or bring camping gear.

Seasons and What Fish Are Active

Spring (March through May) is prime time for largemouth bass around shallow cover—flooded brush, dock pilings, and weed edges in the 4- to 8-foot zone. Water temperatures climb from the low 50s to the mid-60s, triggering feeding activity. Crappie also move into shallower water to spawn, and you can catch them on small jigs or live minnows in the same areas. Walleye begin moving toward deeper structure as the season progresses.

Summer (June through August) shifts the bite deeper. Largemouth bass retreat to deeper weed beds and channel ledges; smallmouth bass dominate rocky points and drop-offs in 20 to 40 feet of water. Walleye are most active at dawn and dusk in the deepest basins. Catfish feed throughout the night in shallow bays. Water temperatures often exceed 75 degrees, and midday fishing slows considerably. Early morning and evening trips yield better results.

Fall (September through November) reverses the summer pattern. Cooling water temperatures push bass back into shallower zones, and the bite intensifies across all species. Largemouth bass hunt in 6- to 15-foot depths around structure. Walleye become more active throughout the day. This is often the most consistent season for both quantity and size. By late November, water temperatures drop into the 40s and fishing slows.

Winter (December through February) is slow. The lake rarely freezes solid, but cold water temperatures and reduced daylight limit activity. Some anglers target walleye in the deepest channels, but success is inconsistent. Most local anglers focus on other fisheries during this period.

Species, Regulations, and Bag Limits

Washington State requires a valid fishing license for anyone 16 and older. You can purchase a one-day, three-day, or annual license through the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website or at most sporting goods stores in the region. Licenses are also available at the Othello ranger station if you're buying on arrival.

Largemouth bass have a 12-inch minimum length with a daily limit of five fish. Smallmouth bass follow the same rule. Walleye require a 15-inch minimum and allow five per day. Crappie (both black and white) have a 10-inch minimum and a 25-fish daily limit. Channel catfish have no minimum size and a 10-fish daily limit. Always check the current Washington fishing pamphlet before you go, as regulations can shift year to year and occasionally mid-season.

The lake is open year-round for most species, but walleye fishing closes during their spawning period (typically mid-March through mid-April, though dates vary). Bass fishing is open year-round. Catch-and-release is always permitted, and many anglers practice it to maintain the fishery's health.

How to Reach Potholes Reservoir and Where to Stay

From Spokane, take Interstate 90 west toward Seattle. Exit at Reardan or continue to the Othello exit (roughly 30 miles from downtown Spokane). Follow Highway 17 south toward Othello, then take Highway 262 east. Signs direct you to Potholes State Park and the main boat launch. The drive takes 45 minutes to an hour depending on your starting point in Spokane.

Potholes State Park has a campground with 60 sites, most with hookups for RVs. Sites fill quickly on weekends in spring and fall, so reserve ahead through the Washington State Parks reservation system. Day-use parking is available at the main launch and several secondary access points. Othello, 15 miles away, has motels and restaurants, though options are limited compared to Spokane.

If you're launching from O'Sullivan Dam on the north shore, the route is less developed. There's a small parking area and a hand-launch ramp suitable for smaller boats, but no facilities. This access point is quieter and can be useful if the main launch is crowded, but plan accordingly.

Tackle and Techniques That Work

For largemouth bass, throw crankbaits, soft plastics, and topwater lures around shallow cover in spring and fall. In summer, switch to deeper-diving crankbaits or Texas-rigged worms in the 15- to 30-foot zone. Smallmouth bass respond well to tube jigs, drop-shot rigs, and small swimbaits on rocky structure. Walleye fishing relies on live minnows (shiners or shad), jigs tipped with minnows, or crankbaits worked along drop-offs and channel edges, especially at dawn and dusk.

Crappie bite on small jigs (1/16 to 1/8 ounce) in white, chartreuse, or black, or on live minnows suspended under a bobber. Catfish are straightforward: use chicken liver, cut shad, or commercial stink bait in shallow bays at night. A simple three-way rig with a sinker and a short leader works well.

Bring a depth finder if you have one—the lake's variable bottom helps you locate structure quickly. A map of the reservoir showing contours and old creek channels (available from the WDFW) is invaluable for understanding where fish hold at different times of year.

What to Bring and Safety Considerations

The reservoir sits in open, semi-arid terrain with minimal shade. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. Wind can pick up in the afternoon, especially in spring and fall, so check the forecast and plan your launch time accordingly. A personal flotation device is required by law for anyone in a boat, and the Washington State Parks website recommends carrying a whistle and a first-aid kit.

Cell service is spotty around the lake, so let someone know your plans before you launch. The nearest hospital is in Othello, about 20 minutes away. Boat traffic is generally light except on summer weekends, but stay alert for other anglers and recreational boaters.

The launch ramps can be slippery when wet, and the parking area fills quickly on weekends. Arrive early if you're visiting during peak season. Trailers and boat rentals are not available at the lake itself, so bring your own or arrange rental in Spokane beforehand.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best time of year to fish Potholes Reservoir?

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are most consistent. Water temperatures are moderate, fish are active in shallower water, and you can catch multiple species throughout the day. Summer requires early morning and evening trips to avoid the heat and deep-water fish. Winter is slow and best avoided unless you're specifically targeting walleye in deep channels.

Do I need a boat, or can I fish from shore?

A boat is strongly recommended. The reservoir is large, and most productive structure is in deeper water or at distance from shore. Shore fishing is possible at the state park and a few access points, but your options are limited. If you don't own a boat, check Spokane-area rental shops before your trip.

What size fish can I expect to catch?

Largemouth bass average 2 to 4 pounds, with occasional fish exceeding 6 pounds. Smallmouth bass run slightly smaller, typically 1.5 to 3 pounds. Walleye average 2 to 4 pounds. Crappie are usually 8 to 12 inches. Catfish vary widely but often exceed 5 pounds. These are averages; individual fish vary based on season and location.

Is there a fee to launch a boat at Potholes State Park?

Yes. Day-use parking and launch fees apply. The current fee structure is available on the Washington State Parks website or at the park entrance. Annual passes are available if you plan multiple visits. Secondary launches may have different fees or no fees; check ahead if you're considering alternative access points.

Can I fish year-round?

Most species are open year-round, but walleye fishing closes during spawning (typically mid-March through mid-April). Winter fishing is possible but slow due to cold water and reduced daylight. Spring, summer, and fall offer far better results and are the practical fishing seasons for most anglers.