Lake Billy Chinook

Lake Billy Chinook

Culver, Jefferson County, OR
6mi²
597.00ft
Directions
Lake Information

Nestled in the heart of Jefferson County, Oregon, Lake Billy Chinook emerges as a captivating reservoir, spanning 3600 acres and captivating the imagination with its rich history and diverse fishery. Named in honor of Billy Chinook, a Wasco Indian who joined the John C. Fremont expedition in 1843, this expansive lake is a testament to the harmonious coexistence of natural beauty and recreational pursuits. Lake Billy Chinook, situated approximately 8 miles southwest of Madras, is a jewel created by the impoundment of the Deschutes River behind the imposing Round Butte Dam. The reservoir's vast expanse and pristine waters make it a centerpiece of Central Oregon's recreational landscape, drawing anglers, adventurers, and nature enthusiasts alike to its shores. Renowned for its bull trout fishery, Lake Billy Chinook offers anglers a diverse palette of fishing opportunities. The reservoir's waters teem with the spirited presence of bull trout, rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee salmon, largemouth bass, and smallmouth bass. Each species contributes to the dynamic and engaging fishery, ensuring that every angling expedition holds the promise of excitement and variety. As one of Central Oregon's most popular recreational sites, Lake Billy Chinook invites visitors to partake in a multitude of activities beyond fishing. The reservoir's clear waters become a playground for swimming, water skiing, and the exhilarating experience of houseboat rentals. Whether casting lines into the depths or enjoying the thrill of water-based activities, Lake Billy Chinook seamlessly blends the serenity of nature with the vibrancy of outdoor recreation. The reservoir's diverse fish species, including the iconic bull trout and the elusive redband trout, add depth to the angling experience. Brown trout and kokanee further enhance the variety, while largemouth and smallmouth bass bring the excitement of warmwater fisheries to the forefront. Anglers of all preferences find solace and challenge in the waters of Lake Billy Chinook. Surrounded by the scenic beauty of Central Oregon, Lake Billy Chinook beckons adventurers to explore its shores and embrace the unique opportunities it presents. Whether you're drawn to the rich history encapsulated in its name or enticed by the thrill of catching diverse fish species, this reservoir invites you to create lasting memories against the backdrop of Oregon's natural splendor. Lake Billy Chinook, with its storied past and vibrant present, welcomes you to a realm where the joy of angling harmonizes with the serenity of the great outdoors.

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Current Conditions

73°F°
Feels like 72°F°
PartlyCloudy
Today's High
80°F°
Today's Low
45°F°

Water Temperature

63°F
Updated: (May 7)
Sign in to contribute temps.

Current water temperature for Lake Billy Chinook is 63°F.

Current Snapshot

Wind7 mph NE (Gust 13 mph)
Pressure
30.08 inHg
Visibility39 mi
Humidity26%
Cloud Cover38%

Forecast: Friday, May 9

Day 1 of 9

Hourly Insights

7 AM
48°F°
10 AM
64°F°
1 PM
75°F°
4 PM
80°F°

Temperature

High
80°F°
Low
45°F°

Precipitation

Chance0%
Amount0.00"
Typeclear

Wind

3mph
Avg Speed
Gusts up to
18mph
CalmModerateStrong
Max Speed7 mph

Sun, Moon & UV

Sunrise12:44 PM
Sunset3:20 AM
Moon PhasewaxingGibbous
Max UV Index5 (Moderate)

Solunar Fishing Forecast

Action Rating
3/5

Todays action is rated a 3 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)

Major Times (Best)

7:00 AM - 7:00 AM

1:06 PM - 3:36 PM

Minor Times (Good)

12:17 AM - 1:47 AM

10:46 AM - 12:16 PM

Outlook for Friday at Lake Billy Chinook

Expect temperatures ranging from 45°F to 80°F. Skies look partly cloudy with little chance of precipitation. Winds will be averaging 3 mph, with potential gusts reaching up to 18 mph. The maximum UV index will be 5 (Moderate), so plan sun protection accordingly. For anglers, today's fishing action is rated 3/5 (Todays action is rated a 3 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)). Look for the best bite times during the major periods around 7:00 AM and 1:06 PM, or try the minor windows near 12:17 AM and 10:46 AM for potential early morning or evening action. Check back for the latest conditions and forecasts for Lake Billy Chinook.

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May 8th 2025

Lake Information

Elevation
597 ft
Area
6 mi²
Coordinates
44.586, -121.445

Weather Forecast

Friday

80°F
45°F

Saturday

72°F
48°F

Sunday

60°F
43°F

Monday

58°F
39°F

Tuesday

58°F
38°F

Wednesday

61°F
40°F

Thursday

66°F
38°F

Friday

60°F
41°F

Saturday

59°F
44°F
Friday - 5/9/2025
80°F
45°F
12am
51°F
63°F
30.15 hPa
5 mph
WNW
G: 6 mph
2am
49°F
63°F
30.15 hPa
3 mph
WNW
G: 4 mph
4am
46°F
63°F
30.14 hPa
2 mph
SE
G: 3 mph
6am
46°F
63°F
30.15 hPa
1 mph
WNW
G: 2 mph
8am
54°F
63°F
30.15 hPa
1 mph
SSE
G: 3 mph
10am
64°F
63°F
30.12 hPa
2 mph
ESE
G: 8 mph
12pm
72°F
63°F
30.07 hPa
3 mph
E
G: 9 mph
2pm
78°F
63°F
30.02 hPa
4 mph
SSW
G: 13 mph
4pm
80°F
63°F
29.97 hPa
4 mph
WNW
G: 15 mph
6pm
77°F
63°F
29.96 hPa
7 mph
WNW
G: 18 mph
8pm
69°F
63°F
29.98 hPa
5 mph
WNW
G: 9 mph
10pm
61°F
63°F
30.02 hPa
3 mph
WNW
G: 7 mph

Water Temperature History

Trends for Lake Billy Chinook

Current Temp

Sign in to view

Latest recorded surface temperature.

Lowest in Period

36°F

On Jan 12

Coldest point in the Last 12 Months.

Average in Period

54°F

Typical temp during the Last 12 Months.

Temperature Trend: Last 12 Months

Surface temperature over the selected period.

Key Observations (Last 12 Months)

  • Warmest avg: July (79°F).
  • Coolest avg: January (38°F).
  • Rapid warming often occurs: May → June (+13°F).
  • Sharpest cooling trend: September → October (-18°F).

Weather Forecast

Wind speed and pressure trends

Hourly Wind Forecast

Wind Direction

302°

Pressure

1021 mb

Cloud Cover

5%

Visibility

31 miles

Daily Pressure Forecast

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Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Billy Chinook

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