Marshmallows for Trout

Lake trout fishing along many of Oregon's fresh water lakes can be a lot of fun for the whole family—especially when the kids get to real 'em in.

One excellent way to rig-up your line is to use marshmallows. That's right. The sugary treat that you'll probably have to try and keep little fingers out of. While using about a three foot, 4 to 6 lb. test leader, drop a 1/8 to 1/4 oz. slide weight down the leader to the hook. Next, attach a barrel swivel where the leader meets the main line. Now, using a size eight or ten hook (tied at the end of the leader), push a small chunk of marshmallow (thumb tack size) up the hook shank just past the eye—then put on two cured salmon eggs (found at most sporting good stores) to hide the rest of the small hook. Using a spinning reel, toss your line out and wait for the "take down." The marshmallow actually acts as a float—bringing the bait up off the bottom just enough to be in excellent striking distance.

Note: When you get a trout to make little nibbles on your bait, wait until the fish takes it good before setting the hook.

One awesome spot for this kind of trout fishing is Lake Marie in Winchester Bay. If you walk around the lake on its nature trail, you'll find many coves and picnic areas to fish from. Winchester Bay is located between Lakeside and Reedsport, along Highway 101.