Watersporting in Klamath Falls

Upper Klamath Agency Lake is one of the finest water-skiing and sailing lakes in Oregon. One may ski or sail across Agency Lake into upper Klamath Lake, where it is possible to ski or sail for 30 unobstructed, straight miles. The Upper Klamath Lake is the largest body of fresh water in the Pacific Northwest and covers more than 133 square miles. Nearly 30 miles long and up to eight miles wide, Upper Klamath Lake is the largest body of freshwater west of the Rockies. As shallow as eight feet and as deep as 60 feet in a few isolated spots, the lake is host to more than windsurfers, sailors, fishermen and hunters. A highly nutritious strain of blue green algae (Aphanizomenon flos-aquae) flourishes in the lake. The tiny, single-celled organisms thrive in the warm waters. Packed with an broad array of micronutrients, the algae is harvested by local companies and processed for sale as a food supplement. Clean, blue rivers and a multitude of creeks and springs feed the northern portion of the lake. The crystal clear water around Pelican Bay is home to a vast population of rainbow trout. Fly fishermen from around the globe catch - and release - some of the largest trout on the continent. Resorts on the shores of Pelican Bay attend to the needs of fishermen by offering meals, lodging and guide services. Canoe and kayak trails meander through the marshes and waterways of Pelican Bay providing unparalleled viewing of waterfowl, otter, mink, deer and bald eagles. Lake Excursions Two lake excursion operators offer informative and exciting tours of Upper Klamath Lake. Experienced boat pilots describe the history and geography of the lake, while stopping frequently to point out some of the lake’s exotic wildlife – bald eagles, golden eagles, pelicans, grebes, herons, egrets and osprey. Klamath Excursions 541-850-6391 Ride on a wild and scenic tour on Klamath Lake. The 1 hour Historic tour will take you on the south end of Klamath Lake. The 2 hour tour will glide along the west side of Klamath Lake and will stop at both islands. The 4 hour tour takes you to Rocky Point where you can get a bite to eat, enjoy Pelican Bay, and view both sides of the islands. The Klamath Belle Paddlewheel 541-883-4622 www.klamathbelle.com The Klamath Belle Paddlewheel made it's debut on Klamath Lake in July 2000, marking the return of a boating era that disappeared over 75 years ago. Now in operation on the lake from April thru November, you can enjoy the beauty and majesty of Oregon's largest natural fresh water lake spanning some 30 square miles. Lunch and dinner tours and Special Events including a ice cream social on Sundays are scheduled each week.