Alpine Lake Fishing Basics

There is a variety of cutthroat, rainbow, or brook trout willing to take a fly or lure at an alpine lake. Alpine lakes can even offer the chance at a rare golden trout or arctic grayling. Know what fishing gear and tackle to bring to have the best success.

 rainbowtrout[34590.jpg

Fly Fishing

For fly anglers, woolly buggers, small nymphs and attractor flies are usually sufficient.

A spinning rod is propped up on a clear tackle box with three fishing lures sitting on top.

Spinning Tackle

With most alpine lakes surrounded by trees, a spinning outfit is sometimes easier to use. Bring a rod that breaks down into sections, a small assortment of spoons and spinners, and maybe a few different types of baits (or catch grasshoppers if available)

angler fishing on a float tube on Satan Lake near Rankin Mill outside McCall August 2006 medium shot

Other Gear

If you're planning a short trip and not carrying a lot of gear or food,  bring along a float tube or pack raft. Taking a float tube to any backcountry lake can increase your chances of catching fish when they move away from shore.