Lake Information for Gerber Reservoir

Nestled in the dry rimrock of south central Oregon, Gerber Reservoir is a pleasant surprise for anglers unaccustomed to warmwater fishing in the high desert. Gerber i located about midway between Klamath Falls and Lakeview, but well south of Highway 140, the area's main east-west road. Access is easiest from Klamath Falls then east through Bonanza, a trip of less than one hour. From Lakeview, any of the shorter routes require travel on USFS roads so have directions or bring a map.
Gerber is a large reservoir of nearly 4,000 acres when full, but is used to store water for irrigation so the water level can fluctuate. Low lake levels during dry years will have a short-term impact on the fishery. However, the reservoir is very productive and fish are quick to recover when water levels return. Bank angling opportunities are limited to the developed areas, an unimproved road that provides access on the west shore south of Gerber Dam, and several spur roads that access scattered locations along the Ben Hall and Barnes Valley arms. Given its size and changing shoreline, the reservoir is best fished by boat. In addition to a new concrete ramp and fish cleaning station located on the north end of the reservoir in the Ben Hall Arm, there is a concrete ramp located near Gerber Dam and a gravel ramp at the southeast end in the Barnes Valley arm. When the fishing is good, plan for an extended stay at one of the two campgrounds managed by the BLM.