Fishing Hidden Lake in Inyo County, California

• Overview

  Set in Inyo County, California, this is Hidden Lake. The ground round it is lake country bush. Small at around 8 acres: two anglers spread out cover most of it. It sits higher than most water we list in California. Some 11 miles away sits Lone Pine, the nearest settlement. After that come Three Rivers at 39 miles and Big Pine at 47 miles. No boundary runs near, so the county rules hold throughout.

• Where to Fish on Hidden Lake

  Nothing in our records gives a depth for this one. Look for the band where the shallows give up and the bottom falls away. Where the bottom changes texture, fish gather; find that line. Fish documented in Inyo County include california golden trout, brook trout, rainbow trout, brown trout and owens sucker. Species recorded across the county may be limited to a few waters. On Hidden Lake the obvious spot is not always the productive one.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-run averages give August about 53°F and January about 21°F. Hard water is a season in its own right here. The open season starts with the thaw, near enough early June. In an average year the thaw lands around early June and the freeze near late November. Early summer and early autumn carry the open-water season. Keep it in mind when planning a trip to Hidden Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  Who may fish here is not settled in anything we hold. Mapping shows no built access close by; expect to walk in from wherever you can leave the car. Trout here take small spinners, spoons and, where fly water allows, a nymph or dry. Check whether a boat is allowed before you tow one. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. If the gate is shut, Muir Lake at 0.7 miles is the nearest alternative. Signs at Hidden Lake carry more weight than any list.