Cooper lake sits in the Cascades at 2788 feet near Cle Elum and boasts stunning views of those mountains from the East.  Its open year around, and provides good fishing for 10 to 12 inch rainbows which attack almost anything that is moving.  There are a few brookies in the weeds.  This is a put and take lake with a no gear restrictions.  Brown trout in the 1 to 3 pound category are available as Dave Schorsch and Larry Karlovich demonstrated in the past fishing with buggers over weed beds.  The lake is planted every year with some 3-5,000  8 to 12 inch fish with several hundred 2-3 pound fish. Some cutthroat are available. All boat motors are prohibited. The boat ramp is small, but adequate,  but parking can be challenging as the beauty of the lake attracts many non-fishing recreationists.  Toilet  facilities are available, but there is no running water.  Closed to fishing for bull trout. Please carefully release any bull trout that are inadvertently hooked. A boat launch is available, but all motors are prohibited by county ordinance. There is a small US Forest Service campground at the lake.

Robert Tovar has graciously offered to host a happy hour and barbeque at his house in Roslyn.  He will be ready with grill and beverages around 4:00.  Bring an appetizer to share if you like.  Robert also has a couple extra rooms at his place, in case a few folks would like to stay over and fish Sunday.  Just let him know in advance, so he can arrange room for everyone.  This sounds like a great time!  The house is located at 208 N. 1st St., on the corner of 1st and Idaho.  It’s right across the street from the big white Presbyterian church.   PLEASE sign up on the website for head count, so he and Bob Birkner know what to expect!

Driving Directions:  (About a 2+ hour drive)

Take highway 903 out of Roslyn, WA toward Salmon La Sac.  After several miles 903 becomes the Salmon La Sac road.  Near the Salmon La Sac campground take forest service road 46 (Paved) which crosses the Cle Elum river and follow it to the East end of Cooper Lake.  There you will find a Y in the road.  Take the right arm of the Y which leads to the North side of the lake, several camping spots, and the boat launch.The lake is stocked annually in May & June with jumbo rainbow trout some up to 5 lbs. !

Cooper Lake Host: Bob Birkner