Odell Lake is 3,558 acres in size and 287 feet deep. It is approximately 6 miles long and 1 1/2 miles wide. Odell Lake is one of the largest lakes in one of the largest lakes in Oregon and has populations of bull trout (dolly Varden), lake trout (mackinaw), rainbow trout, whitefish, and kokanee. All bull trout must be released.
One of the outstanding attractions of the 287-foot-deep lake is fishing. The Oregon State Wildlife Commission stocked this lake annually until 1986. Since then the populations have come from natural spawning. Approximately 75 percent of the catch occurs each year from mid-May to mid-July. The short harvest period is due to a change in kokanee feeding habits after mid-July.
Lake (mackinaw) trout were introduced prior to 1917. They are now maintaining themselves in satisfactory numbers. There is a small, but determined effort for these trophy fish which weigh up to forty pounds. Although rainbow trout are also in the lake, they are considered insignificant to the kokanee and lake trout.
Because of its geological position, Odell Lake is subject to wind forces from 24-30 mph. These strong breezes create whitecaps which occur almost every afternoon. Boaters should be aware of this and take precautions against being caught on the lake unless their crafts are large enough not to be endangered by the waves. This lake is gaining in popularity for wind surfing since there is nearly always an afternoon wind.
Odell Lake has several true firs growing around its shores, including Pacific silver fir, Shasta red fir, subalpine fir and white fir. Engelmann spruce, western and mountain hemlock, Douglas fir, ponderosa, lodgepole and white pine also thrive in a climate that has an annual precipitation of 38 inches. The luxuriant growth of various plants helps to create a favorite retreat for many forest visitors.
Activities are boating, fishing, swimming, windsurfing and trails. Several developed campgrounds provide sites to campers. Princess Creek has 46 camping sites, boat launching ramp, and piped water. Odell Creek has 19 campsites and piped water. Trapper Creek has 32 campsites, piped water and a boat launching ramp. All these areas have paved roads, fireplaces, and toilet facilities. Princess Creek has a picnic area available.
Odell Lake Lodge and Shelter Cove Marina provide the forest visitor with comfortable cabins, the opportunity to purchase the food items which were forgotten at home, fishing tackle, boat/ motor rental and guide services.