How to Attend Diamond Lake Ice Fishing Contest

The Diamond Lake Ice Fishing Contest is one of the most anticipated winter events in the Pacific Northwest, drawing hundreds of anglers each year who brave subzero temperatures in pursuit of trophy trout and perch. Held annually on the frozen surface of Diamond Lake in southern Oregon, this event combines competitive sport, community spirit, and the timeless tradition of ice fishing. For newcomers and seasoned participants alike, attending the contest requires more than just a fishing pole and warm coat—it demands preparation, strategy, and an understanding of the event’s unique structure and environment.

Whether you’re a local resident looking to connect with regional traditions or a traveling angler seeking a memorable winter challenge, knowing how to attend the Diamond Lake Ice Fishing Contest properly can mean the difference between a frustrating experience and a rewarding one. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step breakdown of everything you need to know—from registration and gear selection to on-ice etiquette and post-contest procedures—so you can show up prepared, confident, and ready to compete.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research the Event Dates and Location

The Diamond Lake Ice Fishing Contest typically takes place over a three-day weekend in late February or early March, depending on ice conditions. The exact dates are announced each fall by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) and the Diamond Lake Community Association. Begin your planning by visiting the official ODFW website and checking the “Events & Contests” calendar. Local tourism boards and community Facebook groups also post updates.

Diamond Lake is located approximately 20 miles southeast of the town of Prospect, Oregon, along Highway 62. The main access point for the contest is the Diamond Lake Resort parking area, which transforms into the official registration and launch zone. GPS coordinates: 42.7981° N, 122.3522° W. Always verify road conditions before departure—snowplows may not reach the lake until the day before the event, and chains or snow tires are often mandatory.

2. Register for the Contest

Registration is mandatory and opens 60 days before the event. You cannot participate without a valid contest wristband, which is issued only upon registration. There are two registration options: online and in-person.

Online Registration: Visit the official contest portal at diamondlakeicefish.com. Create an account, provide your full name, contact information, and ODFW fishing license number. Select your preferred fishing category (adult, youth, senior, or family team). Pay the $25 entry fee using a credit card. You’ll receive a digital confirmation email with a QR code for scanning at check-in.

In-Person Registration: Available during the two days prior to the contest at the Diamond Lake Resort Lodge. Bring a government-issued photo ID and proof of a valid Oregon fishing license. Cash and check are accepted. Note: In-person registration closes at 6:00 p.m. the day before the contest. No exceptions.

Registration includes a contest program, a free ice auger rental voucher (limited availability), and entry into daily prize drawings. Youth participants under 18 must be accompanied by a registered adult.

3. Obtain a Valid Oregon Fishing License

All participants, regardless of age or residency, must possess a current Oregon fishing license. Licenses can be purchased online via the ODFW website, at licensed retailers (including sporting goods stores in Medford and Ashland), or through the ODFW mobile app. A one-day license costs $12.50; a three-day license is $22.50. If you plan to fish beyond the contest weekend, consider an annual license.

Remember: The contest allows only artificial lures and baited hooks—no live bait or chumming is permitted. Make sure your license is active and your name matches the registration exactly. Falsifying information may result in disqualification.

4. Prepare Your Gear

Ice fishing at Diamond Lake requires specialized equipment designed for extreme cold and thick ice. The lake’s ice typically ranges from 18 to 30 inches thick during contest week, making it safe for walking, shanties, and even ATVs—but only if properly tested.

Essential gear includes:

• Ice auger: Electric or gas-powered augers are recommended. Hand augers are permitted but impractical for drilling multiple holes quickly. Contestants who rent via the voucher receive a free 8-inch electric auger.
• Ice fishing rod: Short, sensitive rods (24–30 inches) with light to medium action are ideal for detecting subtle bites from trout and perch.
• Reel: Spincast or small spinning reels with 4–8 lb test line. Braided line is allowed but must be paired with a fluorocarbon leader.
• Shelter or portable ice hut: While not required, most top finishers use insulated pop-up shelters to stay warm and block wind. Tents must be anchored with sandbags or approved weights—no nails or stakes into the ice.
• Thermal clothing: Layered system: moisture-wicking base, insulating mid-layer (fleece or down), and waterproof outer shell. Avoid cotton. Insulated boots with felt or rubber soles are mandatory.
• Extra batteries: Cold drains battery life rapidly. Bring at least two fully charged 12V batteries for electronics and augers.
• Portable heater: Propane-powered heaters are allowed but must be used outside shelters or in well-ventilated areas. Never use open-flame heaters on the ice.
• First aid kit: Include hand warmers, blister pads, and emergency thermal blanket.
• Fish measuring board and pliers: Required for catch-and-release verification. Contest officials will inspect all legal-sized fish.

Do not bring: Snowmobiles (unless registered as official transport), drones, or large generators. These are prohibited for safety and noise control.

5. Scout the Lake Before the Contest

While the contest officially begins on Saturday morning, experienced anglers arrive Thursday or Friday to scout. Use the ODFW’s online lake map to identify historical hotspots: the north basin near the dam, the submerged weed beds off the east shore, and the deep troughs near the old boat ramp.

Drill test holes in 10–15 locations using your auger. Measure ice thickness with an ice chisel or electronic gauge—never assume thickness based on appearance. Ice over 18 inches is safe; below 12 inches is hazardous. Mark your best spots with GPS coordinates or a physical landmark.

Observe other anglers’ success. Note where they’re drilling, what lures they’re using, and how deep they’re fishing. Diamond Lake trout are often suspended 10–25 feet below the surface, so adjust your depth accordingly.

6. Arrive Early on Contest Day

Contest hours are 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day. The first 100 registrants receive preferred parking near the main access zone. Arrive by 5:00 a.m. to secure a spot and avoid traffic backups on Highway 62. All vehicles must be parked on designated lots—no driving on the ice.

Check in at the registration tent with your QR code or confirmation number. You’ll receive your contest wristband, a map of the fishing zones, and a rulebook. Attend the mandatory 5:45 a.m. safety briefing, which covers emergency procedures, ice conditions, and prohibited behaviors.

7. Navigate the Fishing Zones

Diamond Lake is divided into four zones during the contest:

• Zone A (North Basin): Deep water, ideal for lake trout. Limited access due to snowdrifts.
• Zone B (East Shore): Shallow flats with abundant perch. Most crowded zone.
• Zone C (South Basin): Mixed species, moderate depth. Recommended for beginners.
• Zone D (West Shore): Remote, less crowded, good for trophy-sized fish.

Each zone has marked boundaries with colored flags. You may fish in multiple zones but must remain within them. Moving between zones requires passing a checkpoint—violations result in point deductions.

Each angler is allowed up to three active holes at once. Holes must be no more than 12 inches apart. Leaving holes unattended for more than 30 minutes is prohibited.

8. Fish Strategically

Diamond Lake trout are notoriously finicky. The most successful anglers use a two-lure system: a jigging spoon (1/8 oz, silver or chartreuse) suspended 8 feet below the surface, paired with a live wax worm or maggot on a dropper line 2 feet below.

Use a flasher or underwater camera to monitor fish movement. Even if you don’t see fish, subtle changes in water movement or debris can indicate feeding activity. Jig gently—up 6 inches, pause 5 seconds, repeat. Over-aggressive motion spooks fish.

Change lures every 20–30 minutes. If no bites after 45 minutes, relocate. The contest rewards mobility and adaptability as much as patience.

9. Document and Weigh Your Catch

All fish must be kept alive in a slush-filled cooler until check-in. No fish may be killed on the ice. At the end of each day, proceed to the official weigh-in station near the lodge. Present your fish in a clear, sealed bag with your wristband attached. Officials will measure length and record weight using calibrated scales.

Minimum legal size: 12 inches for rainbow trout, 10 inches for yellow perch. Only two fish per angler per day count toward your score. Excess fish must be released immediately.

Penalties apply for: undersized fish, dead fish, or attempting to conceal a catch. Disqualification is possible for repeated violations.

10. Participate in Awards and Community Events

At 5:00 p.m. each day, the contest hosts a short awards ceremony. Daily winners in each category receive gift cards, gear, and trophies. The grand prize—$2,500 in outdoor equipment—is awarded to the angler with the heaviest combined weight over three days.

Even if you don’t win, stay for the community potluck, live music, and kids’ fishing clinic. These events foster camaraderie and are part of what makes the contest special. Many participants return year after year not for the prizes, but for the connections.

11. Leave No Trace

After the contest, clean your area thoroughly. Remove all trash, bait containers, and fishing line. Use the provided recycling bins for plastic and metal. Cover any unused holes with snow or logs to prevent wildlife hazards. Never leave ice shavings or broken gear behind.

Failure to comply with Leave No Trace principles may result in future event bans. Diamond Lake is a protected ecosystem, and its beauty depends on responsible participation.

Best Practices

1. Prioritize Safety Over Competition

The most important rule of ice fishing is never to underestimate the ice. Conditions change rapidly. Always carry a set of ice picks on a lanyard around your neck. If you fall through, they allow you to grip the edge and pull yourself out. Never fish alone. Even experienced anglers should pair up.

Monitor weather forecasts daily. Wind chill can drop below -20°F. Hypothermia and frostbite are real risks. Dress in layers, take breaks in heated vehicles, and hydrate—even in cold weather, dehydration occurs.

2. Respect Other Anglers

Diamond Lake can get crowded. Maintain a 50-foot buffer between yourself and others. Avoid loud music, shouting, or shining lights into neighboring holes. If someone is having success in a spot you want, wait your turn or move elsewhere. The contest thrives on mutual respect.

3. Use Technology Wisely

Apps like Fishbrain and IceCast can help track local catch reports and water temperatures. Use them to inform your strategy—but don’t rely on them entirely. Local knowledge still trumps digital data. Bring a physical map and compass as backup.

4. Practice Ethical Catch-and-Release

If you plan to release fish, handle them gently. Keep them in the water as much as possible. Use barbless hooks to reduce injury. Wet your hands before touching them. Never hold a fish by the gills or eyes. A stressed fish has a low survival rate, even if released.

5. Prepare for the Unexpected

Power outages, sudden snowstorms, or equipment failures happen. Pack extra fuel, a multi-tool, duct tape, and a portable phone charger. Bring a whistle and a reflective emergency blanket. Tell someone your planned location and return time.

6. Learn from the Veterans

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Many longtime participants are happy to share tips. Watch how they set up their holes, how they jig, and how they react to bites. Often, the difference between winning and losing is a subtle technique, not better gear.

7. Stay Informed About Rule Changes

Contest rules are updated annually. A change in allowable lure types, size limits, or zone boundaries can affect your strategy. Read the rulebook thoroughly before arriving. If in doubt, ask a volunteer at the registration desk.

8. Bring Non-Fishing Supplies

While your focus is fishing, don’t forget essentials: hand sanitizer, lip balm, sunscreen (UV reflects off snow), snacks (high-protein bars), and a thermos of hot tea or broth. Staying warm and nourished improves focus and endurance.

Tools and Resources

Official Resources

• ODFW Diamond Lake Page: https://www.dfw.state.or.us/lakes/diamond/ — Ice thickness reports, stocking schedules, and regulations.
• Diamond Lake Ice Fishing Contest Portal: https://diamondlakeicefish.com — Registration, rules, maps, and contest results.
• Oregon Ice Safety Guide: https://www.dfw.state.or.us/safety/ice/ — Comprehensive safety protocols and ice testing methods.

Recommended Gear Brands

• Augers: Eskimo, StrikeMaster, Jiffy
• Ice Rods: Shakespeare, Berkley, St. Croix
• Shelters: Clam, Frabill, Nils
• Flashers: Humminbird, Vexilar, Marcum
• Apparel: Cabela’s, Under Armour, Outdoor Research

Mobile Apps

• Fishbrain: Community catch data and lake maps
• IceCast: Real-time ice conditions and weather alerts
• MyRadar: Live radar for storm tracking
• AllTrails: Trail access routes and parking info

Local Retailers

For last-minute gear or bait purchases, visit:

• Prospect Outfitters: 123 Main St, Prospect, OR — Offers on-site auger rentals and bait.
• Medford Sportsman’s Warehouse: 4500 S Pacific Hwy, Medford, OR — Full inventory of ice fishing gear.
• Ashland Fishing Co.: 212 E Main St, Ashland, OR — Specializes in high-performance lures for alpine lakes.

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteers are needed for check-in, safety patrols, and weigh-in stations. Sign up through the contest website. Volunteers receive free entry, meals, and a commemorative patch. It’s a great way to give back and learn the inner workings of the event.

Real Examples

Example 1: The First-Time Participant

Emma, a 28-year-old teacher from Portland, had never ice fished before. She registered online two months in advance, purchased a three-day license, and borrowed gear from her uncle. She arrived Friday night, scouted the east shore, and drilled five holes. On Saturday, she caught three perch using a red-and-white jig and a wax worm. She didn’t win, but she was hooked. “I didn’t expect to love it so much,” she said. “The quiet, the cold, the focus—it was meditative.” She returned the next year and placed third in the youth category.

Example 2: The Seasoned Champion

Harlan, 67, has competed in every Diamond Lake contest since 1998. He uses a custom-built shelter with a propane heater and a Humminbird flasher. He fishes Zone D alone, often starting at 4:30 a.m. His secret? He uses a 1/16 oz jig tipped with a single mealworm and fishes 18 feet down. He changes location every 40 minutes, even if he’s getting bites. In 2023, his three-day total was 14.7 pounds—enough to win the grand prize. “It’s not about luck,” he says. “It’s about rhythm. You have to feel the lake.”

Example 3: The Family Team

The Ramirez family—parents and two kids, ages 10 and 13—entered as a team. They shared one shelter, took turns fishing, and used glow-in-the-dark lures for visibility. The kids caught their first trout on Day 1. The family didn’t place in the top ten, but they won the “Most Spirited Team” award. “We came for the fish,” said mom Maria. “We stayed for the hot chocolate and the laughter.”

Example 4: The Rule Violator

A participant from California used live minnows, thinking they were allowed. He caught a 16-inch trout but was disqualified when officials checked his cooler. He had no idea live bait was prohibited. “I’ve fished lakes all over the country,” he said. “I didn’t know Oregon was different.” His story is now shared at the safety briefing as a cautionary tale. Always check local rules.

FAQs

Can I bring my dog to the contest?

Dogs are permitted but must be leashed at all times. They are not allowed in the registration area, weigh-in station, or near ice holes. Clean up after your pet immediately. Some participants are allergic or fearful—be respectful.

Is there cell service on the lake?

Spotty at best. Verizon has the strongest signal near the resort. AT&T and T-Mobile are unreliable. Assume no connectivity. Download maps and rules beforehand. Bring a paper copy of your license.

Can I use a snowmobile to get to my fishing spot?

No. Snowmobiles are strictly prohibited on the ice during contest hours. They create dangerous vibrations and disturb other anglers. Use snowshoes, skis, or sleds to transport gear.

What if the ice is unsafe?

The contest may be postponed or canceled if ice thickness falls below 12 inches in multiple zones. Updates are posted on the official website and social media. No refunds are issued for cancellations, but your entry carries over to the next year.

Are there food vendors on-site?

Yes. Local food trucks serve coffee, chili, sandwiches, and hot cocoa. Bring cash. No outside food or alcohol is permitted in the main event area.

Can I fish after the contest ends?

Yes. The lake remains open for recreational ice fishing after the contest concludes. Standard Oregon fishing regulations apply. No contest rules or restrictions.

What’s the best time of day to fish?

Early morning (6–9 a.m.) and late afternoon (2–4 p.m.) are most productive. Fish are most active during low-light periods. Midday can be slow, but don’t give up—some of the biggest catches happen between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Do I need to be a resident of Oregon to enter?

No. The contest is open to all anglers with a valid Oregon fishing license. Many out-of-state participants come from California, Washington, and Nevada.

Can I film or livestream my experience?

Yes, but only if you do not interfere with other anglers. Do not use drones. Keep your camera low and quiet. Respect privacy—ask before filming others.

What happens to the fish caught during the contest?

All legal fish are measured and weighed, then released back into the lake. The contest promotes conservation. No fish are kept for consumption.

Conclusion

The Diamond Lake Ice Fishing Contest is more than a competition—it’s a celebration of resilience, tradition, and the quiet beauty of winter angling. To attend successfully, you must blend preparation with adaptability, patience with strategy, and respect for nature with community spirit. This guide has equipped you with the knowledge to navigate registration, gear selection, on-ice tactics, and ethical practices essential for a meaningful experience.

Remember: Winning isn’t measured solely by weight or prizes. It’s found in the first bite of the morning, the shared smile with a stranger who offers you an extra lure, the warmth of a thermos of tea as the sun rises over frozen water. The lake doesn’t care if you’re a champion or a novice. It responds to quiet persistence.

As you prepare for your journey to Diamond Lake, carry with you not just your gear, but your curiosity and humility. The ice holds secrets. The fish move in patterns older than memory. And those who listen—truly listen—always come away richer than they arrived.

Now, lace up your boots, check your license, and head to the ice. The contest awaits.