McKay Reservoir, body of water
McKay Reservoir is a water storage area in eastern Oregon, located south of Pendleton near Highway 395. The dam creates a body of water covering about 1,200 acres with shallow marshes and open water, containing rainbow trout, crappie, bass, sunfish, and yellow perch.
The reservoir was created as part of the Umatilla Project to store water for irrigation of farms in the region. Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, it reflects the importance of water control for agriculture in Oregon's dry eastern landscape.
The name McKay Reservoir reflects its connection to water management in eastern Oregon and its importance for local farming communities. Today, the shallow wetlands and open waters draw people who seek a quiet connection with nature through fishing and bird watching.
The reservoir is open for fishing from March through September, with boat ramps on the north and south ends. Water levels drop significantly in summer months, revealing new shoreline areas and sometimes requiring short walks through vegetation to reach the water.
Ospreys and bald eagles hunt over the water while seasonal drops expose hidden mud flats and reveal fresh fishing spots. This visible transformation makes each visit feel different depending on when you arrive.
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