Fishing Upper Red Rock Lake in Beaverhead County, Montana

• Overview

  The Beaverhead County end of Montana holds Upper Red Rock Lake. It stands 6,611 feet above sea level. Around 4.6 sq miles of open water: conditions change from one end to the other. The perimeter runs near 11 miles, so plan the walk before you start. Size puts it in the front rank of our Beaverhead County list. The nearest town is West Yellowstone, 31 miles away. After that come Ashton at 40 miles and Saint Anthony at 45 miles. The county line is nowhere near, so one local authority covers the water.

• Where to Fish on Upper Red Rock Lake

  Open data we checked carries no depth for this water. A soft bed grows weed late into autumn, which keeps fish shallow. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. Across Beaverhead County, recorded fish include rainbow trout, brook trout, brown trout, cutthroat trout and Arctic grayling. County records show the wider picture rather than this one place. Anyone new to Upper Red Rock Lake should walk it once before setting up.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Seasonal averages run from 13°F in January up to 59°F in August. Seasons are distinct, and each one fishes differently. The freeze runs deep into the year, with break-up near early May. Ice usually gives way near early May, and forms again about mid November. Right after break-up, and again as the nights sharpen, is when to go. Plan any trip to Upper Red Rock Lake around it.

• Tackle & Baits

  Public data does not answer the access question here. This is a natural basin, not a dammed one. Nothing is mapped in the way of a ramp or car park within a short radius. For the trout, small spinners and a box of nymphs cover both approaches. Check whether a boat is allowed before you tow one. Where tickets apply, they are sold in the nearest town rather than on the bank. For a change of water, Swan Lake is 1.6 miles distant. Check the position at Upper Red Rock Lake before loading the car.