Grass Lake, California: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  Grass Lake belongs to Alpine County, California. The water sits 7,720 feet up. At roughly 4 acres, the whole thing is within casting reach of a single walk. It is a small entry by Alpine County standards. South Lake Tahoe sits 9.7 miles from the bank. Reno sits 52 miles out, and it is the nearest city worth the name. The line between counties passes nearby, which can change who manages the water.

• Where to Fish on Grass Lake

  Nothing we hold settles how deep this runs. A natural lake fishes on cover, and cover here means weed and timber. Bays and points beat straight shoreline every time on water like this. County-wide records name brook trout, rainbow trout, great basin cutthroat trout and cutthroat trout. Records at this level tell you what is in the area. Take Grass Lake a stretch at a time.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warmest month averages 58°F, the coldest about 26°F. The calendar is generous: something works in nearly every month. Hard water here is never dependable, so check for yourself before stepping out. The cooler months are the comfortable ones to fish here. Keep it in mind when planning a trip to Grass Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  Whether you may fish here is not something records settle. You will be walking about half a mile from the nearest car park. Light line and small metal for the trout; a fly rod earns its place on calm evenings. Read any posted signs at the access point rather than assuming. Rules for boats are stricter than rules for the bank in many places. Failing this one, try Scotts Lake, 2.1 miles away. What applies at Grass Lake may have changed since it was mapped.