John C Boyle Reservoir - Keno, OR


Fish Spot Details

Surface Area:381 acres
Shoreline:7.6 miles
Maximum Depth:45 ft.
Capacity:4200 acre ft.
Elevation:3796 ft.
Fish Species: Largemouth Bass, Black Crappie, White Crappie, Brown Bullhead, Yellow Perch
John C. Boyle Reservoir, near Keno, Oregon, has undergone a profound transformation due to the ongoing Klamath River dam removal project. Historically, this impoundment supported a warmwater fishery featuring species such as largemouth bass, crappie, and yellow perch. However, with the removal of John C. Boyle Dam, the reservoir as a distinct body of water with its associated warmwater species is no longer present in its former capacity.

The area is now in a critical phase of river restoration, actively transitioning back to a free-flowing riverine environment. The overarching objective is to re-establish historical runs of salmon and steelhead, which were previously blocked by the dam. Consequently, recreational fishing for salmon and steelhead is currently prohibited in this section of the Klamath River in Oregon to protect these vital recovering populations. While resident river fish like redband trout may eventually populate the area, the ecosystem is still in a developmental phase.

Access to this transforming landscape would now entail navigating the re-emerging Klamath River, with potential restrictions around former dam sites due to ongoing restoration activities. Anglers must consult the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) and project managers for current access details and highly specific regulations. This site represents a unique opportunity to witness a large-scale ecological recovery rather than a traditional fishing destination in the immediate future, demanding strict adherence to conservation guidelines.



Latest Fish Reports

Date Report Author
3-6-2024 The reservoir is now a river
The reservoir is now a river. All boat... more »
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff
1-24-2024 The reservoir is now a river
The reservoir is now a river. All boat... more »
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff
1-3-2024 Large goldfish up 12 inches are also abundant but rarely caught
Open and accessible all year. Water temperatures are... more »
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff
10-4-2023 Water levels generally remain very similar and drop as the day progresses
Open and accessible all year. Most boat ramps... more »
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff
7-5-2023 There are abundant brown bullhead catfish
Open and accessible all year. Fishing for crappie... more »
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff


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