Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife currently manages rainbow trout and brook trout at Cultus Lake for natural and hatchery production consistent with the Basic Yield Species Fish Management Alternative for trout. Mountain Whitefish and lake trout are managed for natural production consistent with the Featured Species Fish Management Alternative for trout.

Bait/Lure Fishing Methods : Rainbow trout anglers often fish the southwest corner of the lake using power bait or worms. Also working the shelves along the northwest shoreline could be productive. Lake trout anglers often troll flashers with flatfish or plug type lures near drop-offs.

During the first few weeks after ice-out it is possible to catch lake trout in the shallows with dragonfly or leech patterns.