What You'll Find at North Tenmile Lake

North Tenmile Lake sits in the Cascade foothills of southwestern Oregon, about 30 miles northeast of Coos Bay near the town of Tenmile. The lake runs roughly two miles long and stays fairly shallow across most of its basin, which makes it warm enough for warm-water species through the summer months. You'll fish here for largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie, with occasional catfish in the deeper holes. The shoreline mixes marshy coves with stands of Douglas fir and hemlock, and the water clarity varies with season—clearer in spring, more stained by late summer.

The lake sits on public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and a boat ramp and day-use area sit on the north shore. The setting is quieter than the larger reservoirs to the east, and you'll often have stretches of water to yourself, especially on weekdays. Access is straightforward, and the lake works well for anglers who want to fish warm-water species without the crowds of the Willamette Valley lakes.

Key Takeaways

  • North Tenmile Lake holds largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie in a shallow, warm-water system managed by the BLM.
  • A public boat ramp and day-use area on the north shore provide the main access point; the lake is open year-round but fishes best from late spring through early fall.
  • Marshy coves and shallow flats near the shoreline hold the most fish, while deeper channels in the center of the lake hold bass during the heat of summer.
  • Oregon fishing regulations require a valid license; check current bass and panfish seasons before you fish, as they can shift year to year.

When to Fish North Tenmile Lake

Spring (April through May) brings the most consistent fishing. Bass move shallow to spawn, and bluegill and crappie become active in the warming water. Water temperatures climb from the mid-50s to the low 60s, and you'll find fish in the marshy coves and along the shoreline structure. Early morning and late evening produce the best bites, though overcast days can keep fish active all day.

Summer (June through August) shifts the pattern. Bass move deeper as the lake warms into the 70s, and midday fishing slows considerably. Early morning before 9 a.m. and after 6 p.m. become critical. Bluegill and crappie stay more active in shallow water, especially around any submerged wood or vegetation. By late August, water clarity often drops, which can actually help—stained water makes bass less wary and more willing to strike.

Fall (September through October) cools the water back into the 60s, and bass return to shallower feeding zones. This is often the second-best season after spring. Winter fishing is possible but slow; the lake rarely freezes solid, but cold water temperatures and shorter daylight hours mean fewer anglers and fewer active fish.

Bass Fishing Techniques and Locations

Largemouth bass at North Tenmile respond best to shallow presentations in the marshy coves along the north and east shores. Work soft plastics—4- to 6-inch worms or crawfish patterns—along the vegetation line in 3 to 8 feet of water. Cast parallel to the shoreline rather than straight at it; bass often hold just outside the thickest cover. A 1/8- to 1/4-ounce Texas-rigged worm works in spring and fall; switch to a lighter rig or a wacky-rigged worm in summer when bass are more cautious.

Topwater lures produce strikes in early morning and low-light conditions, especially in spring and fall. Small poppers and walking baits in the 2- to 3-inch range match the forage base. Work them slowly and deliberately; the lake's quieter nature means bass aren't accustomed to aggressive presentations.

During summer, the deeper channels in the center of the lake hold bass that have moved away from the shallows. Drop-shot rigs and small jigs (1/8 to 1/4 ounce) in 12 to 18 feet of water can produce, though this is slower fishing than the spring shallow bite. If you have a depth finder, look for the transition zones where the shallow flats drop into deeper water—bass often stage along these edges.

Bluegill and Crappie Fishing

Bluegill and crappie are often more reliable than bass, especially for anglers new to the lake. Both species stay shallow year-round and respond to simple presentations. Use a small jig (1/16 to 1/8 ounce) tipped with a live minnow or small soft plastic, or fish a small popper on a light spinning rod. The marshy coves produce the most consistent action; cast near any submerged wood, cattails, or vegetation.

Spring and early summer are peak times for crappie. Fish the deeper edges of the coves in 6 to 12 feet of water, and work slowly—crappie often bite on the fall of the lure rather than the strike. Bluegill bite throughout the day and season, though early morning and late evening remain most productive. A simple bobber rig with a live cricket or small minnow suspended 2 to 4 feet below the surface works well for both species and requires no special technique.

Getting to North Tenmile Lake and What to Bring

From Coos Bay, take Highway 42 east toward Roseburg. About 30 miles out, turn north on Tenmile Lake Road and follow signs to the North Tenmile Lake day-use area. The road is paved and well-maintained. The boat ramp is concrete and suitable for small to medium trailers; the parking area holds roughly 15 to 20 vehicles. There is no fuel, food, or lodging at the lake itself, so plan accordingly.

Bring a valid Oregon fishing license, which you can obtain online or at most sporting goods stores in Coos Bay or Roseburg. A small boat or float tube works well; the lake is shallow enough that a kayak or canoe is perfectly functional. Bring sunscreen, water, and a hat—the lake sits in open country with little shade. If you plan to fish in spring or fall, bring layers; mornings and evenings cool down quickly even when midday is warm.

Regulations and Seasonal Closures

Oregon's Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) sets seasons and bag limits for North Tenmile Lake. Bass seasons typically run year-round, but check the current year's regulations before you fish—seasons can shift. Bluegill and crappie are usually open year-round with generous bag limits (often 25 per day for bluegill, 20 for crappie), but verify current rules on the ODFW website or by calling their regional office in Roseburg.

The lake sits on BLM land, so day-use is free, but camping is not permitted at the lake itself. The nearest developed campgrounds are at Tenmile Lake (the larger lake to the south) and in the surrounding national forest. Check BLM and Forest Service websites for current conditions and any temporary closures.

Nearby Water and Alternative Options

Tenmile Lake, the larger lake immediately south, offers similar warm-water fishing with more developed facilities and a larger day-use area. It holds the same species and fishes similarly, though it can be busier on weekends. If you want to explore moving water, the Tenmile Creek system offers small-stream fishing for cutthroat trout and some bass in the lower reaches.

The larger reservoirs to the east—Lemolo Lake and Toketee Lake in the Cascade range—offer cooler-water species like rainbow trout and kokanee, but require a longer drive and different techniques. If North Tenmile's warm-water fishing doesn't appeal, those options provide a different experience within an hour's drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish North Tenmile Lake?

No. The shoreline holds plenty of fish, especially bluegill and crappie in the marshy coves. A small boat or float tube lets you reach more water, but shore fishing from the day-use area is productive, particularly in spring and early summer.

What's the best time of year to catch bass here?

Spring (April through May) is most consistent. Bass are shallow and feeding actively as they prepare to spawn. Fall (September through October) is the second-best option. Summer fishing is slower and requires early morning or evening trips.

Are there catfish in North Tenmile Lake?

Yes, though they're not the primary target. Catfish are present in deeper holes and are most active at night. If you want to target them, fish cut bait or chicken liver on the bottom in 15+ feet of water after dark.

How far is North Tenmile Lake from the coast?

About 30 miles northeast of Coos Bay. The drive takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour from the coast. It's a reasonable day trip if you're staying in the Coos Bay area and want to fish warm-water species.

Can I fish North Tenmile in winter?

Yes, the lake is open year-round and rarely freezes solid. Winter fishing is slow, but it's possible if you're willing to fish in cold conditions. Water temperatures drop into the 40s, and fish are less active, so expect fewer bites than in spring or fall.