Tenmile Lake near Hamilton: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  In Montana, Tenmile Lake belongs to Ravalli County. The surroundings are mixed forest. At roughly 13 acres, the whole thing is within casting reach of a single walk. Hamilton lies 14 miles from the water. The big place round here is Spokane, 175 miles distant. What else is close: Twelvemile Lake within 1.2 miles, Lower Twin Lake 3.2 miles off, Upper Twin Lake within 3.2 miles, Ingomar Lake 3.3 miles off and Mud Lake within 3.6 miles. This one is safely inside the county line.

• Where to Fish on Tenmile Lake

  Our records carry no depth, so judge it from the bank. Still water like this holds fish on the edges rather than out in the open. Read the surface for the wind lane, then fish the edge of it. Open biodiversity records for Ravalli County list rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, brook trout and brown trout. Some of the species recorded here are protected or tightly regulated, so check what may be targeted before you fish. Fish Tenmile Lake where the bottom changes rather than where it looks deep.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The seasonal spread runs 17°F to 55°F. A hard winter is normal, and the thaw brings a strong few weeks. Expect a solid lid for months and a thaw around early May. Ice usually gives way near early May, and forms again about mid November. Fishing peaks soon after break-up and again before the cold returns. Tenmile Lake fishes to that pattern most years.

• Tackle & Baits

  There is no clear statement anywhere on who can fish it. The map shows no ramp or car park nearby, so this is a walk-in water. Light line and small metal for the trout; a fly rod earns its place on calm evenings. A phone call first saves an afternoon. Where parking is tight, arriving early solves most problems. Should this one be busy, Twelvemile Lake is 1.2 miles off. The position on Tenmile Lake is worth confirming on the day.