Fishing at Little Johnson Lake, Deer Lodge County, Montana

• Overview

  Little Johnson Lake is listed under Deer Lodge County, Montana. It lies 8,035 feet above sea level. This is a pocket water of some 3 acres, and every part of it is reachable from the bank. On size it sits at the modest end of our Deer Lodge County list. For a base, Anaconda sits 31 miles out. Then Hamilton, 36 miles, and Warm Springs, 40 miles. It lies deep inside the county rather than near an edge.

• Where to Fish on Little Johnson Lake

  We hold no depth figure for this one. Weed, then depth: that is the order to fish a water of this kind. A natural lake fishes on cover, and cover here means weed and timber. Survey and observation records for Deer Lodge County include rainbow trout, brook trout and Arctic grayling. Records at county level tell you what is around, not what is stocked here. At Little Johnson Lake the first feature you find is worth twenty minutes.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-run averages give July about 53°F and December about 18°F. Seasons are distinct, and each one fishes differently. Winter fishing happens on the ice here, with open water back around mid May. Open water usually runs from mid May until about early November. From the thaw to midsummer the fishing improves week by week. It sets the rhythm of the year at Little Johnson Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  Public data does not answer the access question here. Overnight stays are possible about 70 yards out, where camping is mapped. Trout here take small spinners, spoons and, where fly water allows, a nymph or dry. Bank access can be seasonal on ground like this. Fishing rules and camping rules are set separately here. If the gate is shut, Kelly Lake at 1.1 miles is the nearest alternative. For Little Johnson Lake in particular, ask before you travel.