Conconully Lake at a glance
Conconully Lake is a shallow, 90-acre reservoir in Okanogan County in north-central Washington, about 30 miles north of Wenatchee. It holds largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, and brown trout, with the bass fishery being the main draw. The lake sits at roughly 2,200 feet elevation and is accessible year-round, though winter conditions can close access roads. The town of Conconully sits on the lake's south shore and offers basic services, fuel, and a few small lodges.
This is a lake for anglers who want a manageable day trip or weekend without the crowds of larger Washington reservoirs. It's shallow enough that structure matters more than depth, and the shoreline has enough fallen timber and weed beds to hold fish predictably. Expect to catch fish here, but not trophy-sized ones—most bass run 12 to 16 inches, and trout average 10 to 14 inches.
Key Takeaways
- Conconully Lake holds largemouth and smallmouth bass year-round, with spring and fall offering the most consistent action.
- A Washington fishing license is required; check current regulations for bass and trout limits before you fish.
- Public boat launch and day-use access are available at Conconully State Park on the south shore.
- The lake is shallow (average depth around 30 feet) with heavy timber and weed growth, so structure-focused techniques work better than open-water fishing.
- Winter access depends on road conditions; call ahead during November through March to confirm the main access road is passable.
Species and seasonal patterns
Largemouth bass dominate the catch here and respond well to soft plastics, crankbaits, and topwater lures in shallow water. Smallmouth bass are present but less abundant; they tend to hold slightly deeper than largemouths and respond to tubes, jigs, and small swimbaits. Both species are most active in spring (April through May) and fall (September through October), when water temperatures sit in the 55 to 70 degree range.
Rainbow and brown trout are stocked periodically and can be caught year-round, though they're less predictable than the bass. Trolling small spoons or casting spinners near the dam and along deeper drop-offs produces trout, especially in early morning. Summer trout fishing slows as water warms; winter can be productive if you're willing to fish from shore or a boat in cold conditions.
Summer bass fishing is possible but requires patience. Fish move to deeper structure and shade during the day; early morning and evening produce better results than midday. Weed beds thicken in July and August, which can make casting difficult but also concentrate fish in the cooler, oxygenated water beneath the vegetation.
Access and boat launch
Conconully State Park operates the main public boat launch on the south shore, accessible from the town of Conconully via Conconully Avenue. The launch has a single-lane concrete ramp, a small parking area, and day-use facilities including restrooms and picnic tables. There is a day-use fee (currently around $5 to $10, though this varies by season and may change). The launch is typically open dawn to dusk.
Shore fishing is also possible at the state park day-use area and at a few informal spots along the north shore, though access there is less developed. If you plan to fish from shore, bring a headlamp and arrive early to secure a spot, especially on weekends.
The road to Conconully is paved but can become icy or snow-packed in winter. The main route from Wenatchee is US-97 north to WA-20 east, then local roads into town. During November through March, call the Okanogan National Forest office or the town of Conconully to confirm road conditions before making the drive.
Regulations and licensing
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 (WDFW) website, at sporting goods retailers, or at some convenience stores in Conconully.
Bass regulations change annually and vary by water body. Conconully Lake typically has a daily limit of five bass (combined largemouth and smallmouth) with a 12-inch minimum length. Trout limits and seasons also vary; check the current WDFW regulations pamphlet or the online fishing guide before you go. Regulations can shift year to year, so do not rely on what worked last season.
The WDFW website has a searchable database of water-specific rules. Search "Conconully Lake" in the regulations section to see current limits, season dates, and any special restrictions.
What to bring and how to prepare
Conconully is a small town with limited services. Bring fuel before you arrive if you're coming from a distance. The nearest larger town with a full grocery store and gas station is Omak, about 20 miles south. A small general store in Conconully carries basic supplies, but do not count on finding specialty tackle or specific lure types.
Bring your own tackle box stocked with soft plastics (4 to 6 inches), crankbaits in natural colors, and small spoons for trout. A 6 to 7-foot medium-power spinning rod works for both bass and trout here. Polarized sunglasses help you spot structure and fish in the clear, shallow water. A fish finder is useful but not essential—the lake is small enough that you can cover productive areas by sight and by working the obvious timber and weed beds.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and extra water. The lake sits in semi-arid terrain with little shade on the water. In summer, afternoon winds can pick up, so plan to fish early or late in the day if you prefer calmer conditions.
Lodging and nearby services
Conconully has a few small motels and vacation rentals, though options are limited. The Conconully Motel and a handful of private cabins are the main overnight choices. Camping is available at Conconully State Park (with a small fee) and at nearby Okanogan National Forest campgrounds. Reservations for state park camping can be made through the Washington State Parks website.
The town has a diner, a couple of small restaurants, and a tavern. Groceries are limited; stock up in Omak or Wenatchee before you arrive. Cell service is spotty in and around Conconully, so do not rely on your phone for navigation or emergencies—bring a map and let someone know where you're going.
When to fish Conconully
Spring (April through May) is the best time for consistent bass action. Water temperatures are rising, fish are shallow and active, and the weather is usually mild. Fall (September through October) is nearly as good, with cooler water pushing fish back to shallower feeding zones. Both seasons offer 12 to 16 hours of daylight, giving you time to fish without rushing.
Summer is fishable but requires early starts and patience. Winter is possible for hardy anglers willing to fish in cold, short days, but access can be unreliable. If you're new to Conconully or want the highest odds of catching fish, plan your trip for April, May, September, or October.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a boat to fish Conconully Lake?
No. Shore fishing is productive, especially along the state park day-use area and at the dam. A boat lets you cover more water and reach deeper structure, but it's not required. Many anglers fish successfully from shore, particularly in spring and fall when fish are shallower.
What's the best lure for bass at Conconully?
Soft plastics in 4 to 6-inch lengths (rigged Texas-style or on a jighead) work consistently. Crankbaits that mimic small baitfish and topwater plugs in early morning also produce. Match lure color to water clarity—natural colors (green, brown, black) work in most conditions.
Is Conconully Lake stocked with trout?
Yes, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife stocks rainbow and brown trout periodically. Stocking schedules vary by year. Check the WDFW website or call the Okanogan office to learn when the most recent stocking occurred before your trip.
Can I fish Conconully in winter?
Yes, but road access can be unreliable. Call the town of Conconully or the Okanogan National Forest office to confirm the main road is passable before driving in November through March. Winter fishing is slower but possible, especially for trout.
How far is Conconully Lake from Wenatchee?
About 30 miles north. The drive takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour via US-97 north and WA-20 east. It's a manageable day trip or short weekend getaway from central Washington.