Fishing Davis Lake in Chugach Census Area, Alaska

• Overview

  Alaska holds Davis Lake, in Chugach Census Area. It sits 2.2 miles in from the sea. Surface area is around 224 acres, which gives you real water without needing a boat. Shoreline length is close to 3.4 miles, and each section fishes a little differently. The closest town, Girdwood, is 41 miles distant. It is 67 miles to Anchorage, the nearest city. It lies deep inside the county rather than near an edge.

• Where to Fish on Davis Lake

  There is no published depth for this one, so start shallow and work out. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. Bays and points beat straight shoreline every time on water like this. Chugach Census Area records list Chum salmon, pink salmon, Coho salmon and sockeye salmon among the fish reported. Some of the species recorded here are protected or tightly regulated, so check what may be targeted before you fish. On Davis Lake that means starting tight and working out.

• Seasonal Patterns

  On the long-term average, July reads 53°F and January reads 22°F. The year runs cold to warm and back, with clear transitions. Look for the thaw near early May; the fishing lifts straight after. In an average year the thaw lands around early May and the freeze near early November. Early summer and early autumn carry the open-water season. Keep it in mind when planning a trip to Davis Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  Public sources are silent on who controls the bank. No dam controls it, and the level follows the season. Nothing built is recorded close to the bank here. For the trout, small spinners and a box of nymphs cover both approaches. A phone call first saves an afternoon. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. Esther Lake at 9.6 miles is the sensible second choice. Treat Davis Lake as unsettled until someone local tells you otherwise.