Gertrude Lake, Washington: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  Gertrude Lake lies within the bounds of Lewis County, Washington. The water sits 5,722 feet up. About 8 acres of surface, which puts the far bank inside easy sight. Compared with other Washington water on our list, it sits high. You are 37 miles from Tieton. After that come Ahtanum at 39 miles and West Valley at 40 miles. There is no boundary nearby to worry about.

• Where to Fish on Gertrude Lake

  No depth figure has reached our records, which makes a plummet useful. Still water like this holds fish on the edges rather than out in the open. This is a lake, so the margins and the first drop matter most. Across Lewis County, recorded fish include Coho salmon, rainbow trout, Chinook salmon and largemouth bass. Protected fish appear in the records for this area, so treat the list as information, not an invitation. The shape of Gertrude Lake rewards a slow walk along one bank.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Average temperature peaks around 56°F in August and bottoms out near 25°F in January. Conditions shift steadily rather than sharply. It is not guaranteed from one year to the next. February into May fishes hardest as the water warms. Time your trip to Gertrude Lake by conditions rather than dates.

• Tackle & Baits

  Whether you may fish here is not something records settle. Mapping shows no built access close by; expect to walk in from wherever you can leave the car. Largemouth respond to soft plastics tight to cover; go weedless where the growth is heavy. Check whether a boat is allowed before you tow one. Signs go up and come down, so check on the day. LeConte Lake at 0.7 miles is the sensible second choice. Rules at Gertrude Lake are worth checking on the day.