Casper Lake near Lone Pine: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  Casper Lake lies within the bounds of Inyo County, California. What surrounds it is mixed forest. About 22 acres of surface, which puts the far bank inside easy sight. Compared with other California water on our list, it sits high. Lone Pine lies 21 miles from the water. Three Rivers lies 30 miles off, Big Pine another 36 miles. This one is safely inside the county line.

• Where to Fish on Casper Lake

  Depth here is unknown, so count the lead down before committing. Still water like this holds fish on the edges rather than out in the open. Weed, then depth: that is the order to fish a water of this kind. Inyo County records list california golden trout, brook trout, rainbow trout and brown trout among the fish reported. The county list is broader than any single water. On Casper Lake the quiet end is the one worth the extra effort.

• Seasonal Patterns

  August runs about 50°F on average, January about 17°F. The year runs cold to warm and back, with clear transitions. The freeze runs deep into the year, with break-up near mid June. Break-up near mid June, freeze-up near mid November: that is the shape of an average year. June through September is the settled part of the year, with the shoulders busier for fish. Anyone fishing Casper Lake regularly works to that calendar.

• Tackle & Baits

  Public data does not answer the access question here. Access is unmapped, which usually means a farm track and a walk. For the trout, small spinners and a box of nymphs cover both approaches. Look for a notice board at the entrance. Where the way in crosses private ground, ask first. Failing this one, try Lake South America, 2.2 miles away. Check the position at Casper Lake before loading the car.