
Lake Billy Chinook
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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Lake Billy Chinook
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.
Read more detailsCurrent Conditions
Water Temperature
Current water temperature for Lake Billy Chinook is 63°F.
Current Snapshot
Forecast: Friday, May 9
MostlyCloudy
Hourly Insights
Temperature
Precipitation
Wind
Sun, Moon & UV
Solunar Fishing Forecast
Todays action is rated a 3 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)
7:00 AM - 7:00 AM
1:06 PM - 3:36 PM
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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Lake Information
Common Fish Species
Nearby Lakes
Water Temperature History
Trends for Lake Billy Chinook
Current Temp
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


Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Billy Chinook
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