The Homer Reservoir

The feel

This is a manmade freshwater lake above Homer, created as a water supply for the city. It sits off the beaten path on Skyline Drive and is open to fishing year round, which keeps crowds away.

Anglers fish for Dolly Varden from shore or from small boats like canoes and inflatable kayaks. Rainbow trout are in the water year round too. From shore, people cast worms or small lures into the reservoir below the road and dike. When the lake freezes, usually in November or December, ice fishing runs through March.

What to expect

Water and access

Manmade freshwater lake on Skyline Drive. From Homer take East or West Hill Road onto Skyline Drive. From West Hill, turn onto Crossman Ridge Road on the left and follow it down to the reservoir. The last stretch is a dirt road to the dam and dike. Fish from shore or from canoes and inflatable kayaks.

Species and timing

Dolly Varden and rainbow trout, year round.

Methods and gear

Cast worms or small lures from shore into the reservoir below the road and dike, or ice fish in winter.

Crowds and best time

Off the beaten path, with year-round opportunities to avoid crowds.

Parking

Park at either end of the dike before walking down to the shoreline.

Hazards

Avoid the water whirlpool near the north end of the road and dam.

Bathrooms and water

No restrooms.

Season and access

Open year round. Ice fishing from freeze up, usually November or December, through March.

Mingo says

Fish it from shore or a small boat until freeze up. After that, switch to ice fishing.

Before you go

• Park at either end of the dike and walk down to the shoreline.
• Stay clear of the whirlpool near the north end of the dam.
• Plan for no restrooms at the lake.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.