Mist Lake near Mammoth Lakes: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  Mist Lake is an Inyo County water, California side. The surface lies 10,902 feet up. About 7 acres of surface, which puts the far bank inside easy sight. It sits higher than most water we list in California. Mammoth Lakes lies 20 miles from the water. Further out sit West Bishop (21 miles) and Dixon Lane-Meadow Creek (23 miles). It sits well inside its county, with no border complications.

• Where to Fish on Mist Lake

  Our records carry no depth, so judge it from the bank. Look for the band where the shallows give up and the bottom falls away. A natural lake fishes on cover, and cover here means weed and timber. Survey and observation records for Inyo County include california golden trout, brook trout and rainbow trout. County data is a starting point rather than a guarantee. At Mist Lake light and wind decide more than tackle does.

• Seasonal Patterns

  In an average year August sits at 52°F and February at 22°F. Fishing here follows the temperature more than the calendar. The open season starts with the thaw, near enough early June. On average, early June opens the water and late November closes it again. The open run goes from the thaw to the freeze, and April through October covers most of it. The season on Mist Lake rarely departs from it.

• Tackle & Baits

  Access is not recorded for this water. 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. Parking space is the usual limit rather than the bank itself. Check whether bait restrictions apply before you buy any. If the gate is shut, Hilgard Lake at 1 mile is the nearest alternative. Signs at Mist Lake carry more weight than any list.