Priday Reservoir - Burns, OR

Priday Reservoir, located near Burns in Harney County, Eastern Oregon, is a relatively small irrigation impoundment that provides coldwater fishing opportunities in a vast, high-desert landscape. While primarily serving agricultural needs, it is also a popular local fishing spot, managed by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) to provide a consistent put-and-take fishery, predominantly focused on rainbow trout. Its somewhat remote setting offers a quieter angling experience for those willing to venture off the beaten path in this expansive region.

The primary species targeted in Priday Reservoir is rainbow trout. The ODFW regularly stocks this reservoir with catchable-sized rainbow trout, particularly in the spring and sometimes in the fall, depending on water levels and conditions. These stocking efforts ensure a good density of fish, leading to consistent opportunities for anglers, including families and beginners. While rainbow trout are the main focus, the reservoir may also contain populations of brown bullhead catfish, which are often found on the bottom and are particularly active during evening and night hours. Some incidental populations of yellow perch or other panfish may also be present, though they are not the primary focus of management. The reservoir's ability to maintain cold enough water, particularly in its deeper sections, generally favors trout.

Angling techniques at Priday Reservoir are straightforward and effective for rainbow trout. Bank anglers commonly find success still-fishing with common trout baits such as PowerBait (in various colors), worms, or corn, typically fished off the bottom with a small sinker or suspended under a bobber. Spinners (like Rooster Tails, Mepps, or Panther Martins) and small spoons (such as Kastmasters or Little Cleos) are also very effective when cast and retrieved near shorelines or over submerged structures. For boat anglers (often using small boats, canoes, kayaks, or float tubes, as larger motorized boats may be challenging to launch or restricted depending on water levels), slow trolling with wedding rings, small dodgers and hootchies, or various trolling flies can be highly productive, especially when fish are cruising in the open water column. Fly anglers can also find opportunities for nymphing with imitative patterns or fishing small streamers, particularly near inflows or drop-offs. For catfish, cut bait, stink baits, or large worms fished on the bottom are effective.

The best time to fish Priday Reservoir is generally in the cooler months of spring and fall, immediately following stocking events, when trout are most active. Summer fishing can be productive, particularly in deeper water, but surface temperatures can get warm, potentially stressing trout. Perch and catfish fishing can be productive throughout the warmer months. Access to Priday Reservoir is generally good, often via unimproved gravel roads. There is usually at least one unimproved boat launch, and ample parking area, allowing for launching of various types of watercraft. There are also numerous areas for bank fishing around the reservoir's perimeter, though access can be impacted by fluctuating water levels. As an irrigation reservoir, water levels can vary significantly throughout the year, especially during late summer and fall as water is drawn down for agricultural use. This can sometimes affect boat launching and shoreline access, and anglers should always check current conditions.

Regulations on Priday Reservoir are set by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW).