Faraday Lake - Estacada, OR

Spot Information

Surface Area:26 acres
Fish Species: Rainbow Trout
Historically, Faraday Lake, near Estacada, Oregon, was a popular local fishing spot within the Clackamas River hydroelectric system. It was primarily known for its rainbow trout, regularly stocked by the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW), ensuring consistent "put-and-take" opportunities. Steelhead and brown trout were also present, adding to the coldwater fishery.

Crucially, Faraday Lake is currently closed to fishing and recreation due to ongoing powerhouse updates at Rivermill Dam by Portland General Electric (PGE). Anglers should verify reopening status with PGE or ODFW before planning a trip.

If the lake reopens, trout fishing would likely be best after stocking in cooler temperatures, utilizing bait, spinners, or flies. Access, previously convenient from Highway 224, would likely offer bank fishing and opportunities for small boats. Conservation efforts, upon reopening, would focus on maintaining its trout populations through stocking. Anglers would need to strictly adhere to all ODFW regulations. For now, alternative fishing locations are recommended.




Latest Fish Plants

Plant DateSpeciesSource# of Fish
9-01-2025Rainbow TroutODFW800
8-25-2025Rainbow TroutODFW1334
8-18-2025Rainbow TroutODFW1334
7-14-2025Rainbow TroutODFW1200
6-16-2025Rainbow TroutODFW1334


Latest Fish Reports

Date Report Author
4-7-2020 Lake is now Closed for PGE Work
Faraday Lake is now closed while PGE updates... more »
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff
1-2-2020 Faraday Lake is Closed Through 2020
Faraday Lake is now closed while PGE updates... more »
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff
10-2-2019 Faraday Lake is Closed Through 2020
Faraday Lake is now closed while PGE updates... more »
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff
6-17-2019 Faraday Lake is Closed Through 2020
Faraday Lake is now closed while PGE updates... more »
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff
1-31-2019 ODFW Eliminates Bag Limit on Hatchery Trout at Faraday Lake
Fishermen can keep all the hatchery trout they... more »
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff

Detailed Map