What Empire Lakes Offers

Empire Lakes is a pair of shallow, high-desert reservoirs in south-central Oregon, roughly 30 miles southeast of Burns. The two lakes sit at about 4,200 feet elevation and hold cutthroat trout and brook trout, with occasional rainbow trout. The fishery is best known for cutthroat — the lakes produce fish in the 10- to 14-inch range regularly, and larger fish are possible. Water levels fluctuate significantly because the lakes serve irrigation purposes, which shapes when and where fish concentrate and how accessible the shoreline remains.

The setting is sagebrush country with minimal shade and few amenities nearby. This is a destination for anglers who want solitude and don't mind driving to reach it. The lakes draw local and regional anglers rather than travelers from out of state, and the fishing pressure remains light compared to more famous Oregon waters. Access is straightforward — a gravel road leads to a boat launch and parking area — but the landscape offers no shelter from wind or sun, so planning for weather is essential.

Key Takeaways

  • Empire Lakes holds cutthroat trout in the 10- to 14-inch range, with brook trout and occasional rainbows, in two shallow high-desert reservoirs near Burns.
  • Water levels drop significantly during irrigation season (summer and early fall), concentrating fish in deeper holes and sometimes limiting boat launch access.
  • Spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) typically offer the most stable water levels and best fishing conditions.
  • No developed campgrounds or lodging exist at the lakes; the nearest services are in Burns, about 30 miles away.
  • Oregon fishing licenses and any applicable trout tags are required; check current regulations for species-specific rules before you fish.

Seasons and Water Conditions

Spring fishing (April through May) is often the most productive time at Empire Lakes. Water temperatures are cool, fish are active after winter, and water levels are typically higher following snowmelt. Cutthroat respond well to small spinners, soft plastics, and fly patterns during this window. The trade-off is weather — high-desert spring can bring wind, rain, and sudden temperature swings, so layered clothing and a windproof jacket are practical necessities.

Summer (June through August) sees water levels begin to drop as irrigation demands increase. Fish move to deeper water and may become less active during midday heat. Early morning and late evening fishing can still be productive, but midday periods often slow. The lakes become more exposed to sun and wind, making the experience less comfortable for anglers who don't have shade or shelter.

Fall (September through October) offers a second strong window. Water levels stabilize somewhat, temperatures cool, and fish feed actively in preparation for winter. Cutthroat and brook trout both respond well to fall fishing. By late October, weather becomes unpredictable and water temperatures drop significantly, signaling the end of the prime season.

Winter (November through March) is generally not viable for most anglers. Water levels are low, ice may form on the lakes, and access can be difficult. Some years the lakes freeze solid enough to support ice fishing, but conditions vary year to year and are not reliable for planning a trip.

Fish Species and What to Expect

Cutthroat trout are the primary target and the reason most anglers visit. These fish are native to Oregon and thrive in the cool, shallow water. Most cutthroat at Empire Lakes run 10 to 14 inches, though fish in the 15- to 17-inch range are caught regularly. They respond to small spinners (sizes 0 and 1), soft plastics in natural colors, and fly patterns that imitate small aquatic insects and fry. Cutthroat are less aggressive than brook trout but more willing to chase a lure than some other trout species.

Brook trout are also present and often more aggressive than cutthroat. They tend to be slightly smaller on average but are willing strikers. Brook trout will hit spinners, small crankbaits, and nymphs readily. They are more likely to be caught in shallower water and near structure like rocks or submerged vegetation.

Rainbow trout appear occasionally but are not the focus of the fishery. They are stocked less frequently than cutthroat and brook trout, and catches are less predictable.

Tackle and Techniques

Spin fishing is the most common approach at Empire Lakes. Small spinners (sizes 0 to 2) in silver, gold, or copper work consistently for cutthroat. Soft plastics — 2- to 3-inch minnow imitations or worms in natural colors — are also effective, especially when fished slowly along drop-offs. A 5- to 6-foot light to medium-light spinning rod with 4- to 6-pound test line is appropriate for the fish size and conditions.

Fly fishing is viable, particularly in spring and fall. Small nymphs (sizes 12 to 16) that imitate midges and aquatic insects work well. Dry flies can be productive during evening hours when insects are active. A 4- to 5-weight rod and a floating line are standard. Cutthroat will rise to dry flies, but subsurface fishing often produces more consistent results.

Boat fishing is the primary method because the shallow water and fluctuating shoreline make wading difficult and sometimes impossible. A small aluminum boat or float tube allows you to reach deeper water and move between productive areas. If you bring a boat, check that the launch is accessible before you arrive — low water can sometimes make launching difficult or impossible.

Access and Launch Information

Empire Lakes is accessed via a gravel road from Highway 20, south of Burns. The road is passable year-round in normal conditions but can be rough and dusty in summer. A small parking area and boat launch are located at the north end of the larger lake. The launch is a simple concrete ramp; no fuel, supplies, or services are available at the lakes themselves.

The nearest town is Burns, approximately 30 miles northwest. Burns has gas stations, a few restaurants, and basic lodging options, but no specialized fishing shops. Bring all tackle, supplies, and food with you. Water and shade are not available at the lakes, so carry extra water and plan for sun exposure.

The lakes are open to the public, and there is no day-use fee. Parking is free. The area is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and regulations are set by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Regulations and Licensing

An Oregon fishing license is required for anyone 12 years old and older. Licenses are available online through the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife website, at sporting goods stores, and at some retailers in Burns. A one-day license is available if you are visiting briefly; multi-day and annual licenses are also sold.

Trout-specific regulations vary by year and are set by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Check the current regulations before you fish — they cover daily catch limits, minimum size requirements, and any species-specific restrictions. Cutthroat and brook trout may have different rules, and some years additional tags or endorsements are required. The ODFW website publishes the current rules for the specific water body, and it is your responsibility to verify them before fishing.

Barbless hooks are often required or recommended on Oregon waters. Check the specific regulations for Empire Lakes to confirm what applies.

When to Fish and What to Bring

Plan your trip for spring (April through May) or fall (September through October) for the most reliable conditions and best fishing. Summer is possible but requires early starts and tolerance for heat and wind. Winter is not practical for most anglers.

Bring a boat or float tube — wading is difficult due to shallow water and soft bottom. A small aluminum boat is ideal; a float tube works if you prefer a lighter footprint. Bring all tackle, food, and water with you. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential in the high desert. A windproof jacket is practical even in summer because afternoon wind is common. If you plan to stay multiple days, camp in Burns or nearby BLM land (check regulations for dispersed camping).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish from shore at Empire Lakes?

Wading is difficult because the lakes are shallow and the bottom is soft mud. A boat or float tube is strongly recommended. If you do fish from shore, expect limited access and less productive fishing than from a boat.

What is the best time of year to visit?

Spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) offer the most stable water levels, comfortable weather, and active fish. Summer is possible but hot and windy; winter is not reliable.

Do I need to bring my own boat?

Yes. No boat rentals are available at Empire Lakes. You must bring your own boat, float tube, or canoe. A small aluminum boat is ideal for the shallow water.

Are there campgrounds at Empire Lakes?

No developed campgrounds exist at the lakes. The nearest lodging and camping options are in Burns, about 30 miles away. BLM land nearby may allow dispersed camping — check current regulations before setting up.

What should I do if water levels are too low to launch?

Call the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife or the BLM office in Burns before you travel to confirm launch conditions. Low water can make launching impossible, particularly in late summer and early fall.