What You'll Find at Lake Mamie

Lake Mamie sits at 9,300 feet in the Sierra Nevada, about 15 minutes west of Mammoth Lakes town. It's a small alpine lake—roughly 40 acres—fed by snowmelt and surrounded by granite peaks and whitebark pine. The water stays cold year-round, which keeps the native cutthroat trout active even in summer when lower-elevation lakes warm up and fish go deep.

The lake holds a mix of cutthroat and some brook trout. Cutthroat are the main draw here. They're aggressive on small flies and spinners, and the population is healthy enough that you can expect steady action if you're fishing the right structure—drop-offs along the north shore, the inlet creek, and the shallow flats near the dam.

Access is straightforward. The trailhead sits at the end of Lake Mary Road, a paved drive that branches off Highway 203 west of town. From the parking area, it's a 2.5-mile hike to the lake, mostly uphill but not steep. The trail is well-maintained and marked, and you'll pass several other lakes on the way—Barney Lake, George Lake—so you have options if Mamie is crowded.

Key Takeaways

  • Lake Mamie holds native cutthroat trout at 9,300 feet elevation, making it a reliable summer fishery when lower lakes warm up.
  • The 2.5-mile hike from Lake Mary trailhead is moderate and well-marked, with a parking area that fills on weekends.
  • Small flies (size 14–18) and spinners work best; fish the north shore drop-offs, inlet creek, and dam shallows for the most consistent action.
  • The lake is open to fishing year-round, but snow typically blocks the trail from November through May.
  • California fishing license and a High Sierra Wilderness permit are required; check current regulations for catch limits and gear restrictions.

When to Fish Lake Mamie

The lake is technically open year-round, but practical access runs from late June through October. Snow closes the trail most years by early November and doesn't melt off until late June. Peak season is July and August, when the trail is clear and the weather is most stable—but those months also bring the most hikers and anglers.

September and early October offer better solitude and still-cold water. Cutthroat bite well into fall as long as the lake isn't frozen. Water temperature drops fast at this elevation, so bring layers even in summer. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August; start early and be off the ridge by early afternoon.

Winter access is possible for experienced backcountry skiers and snowshoers, but the trail is unmarked under snow and avalanche risk exists on some sections. Most anglers stick to the snow-free window.

Flies, Lures, and Tactics for Cutthroat

Cutthroat at Lake Mamie respond well to small, simple patterns. Dry flies work during morning and evening rises—try Adams, Pale Morning Duns, and Stimulators in sizes 14–16. Nymphs fished near the bottom produce steadier action: Hare's Ear, Pheasant Tail, and small Copper Johns in sizes 16–18. If you're not a fly angler, small spinners (size 0 or 1) in silver or gold work reliably, especially along the drop-offs.

The inlet creek, where water enters the lake from the north, is often the most productive spot. Fish it early in the morning or late in the day. The north shore drops off quickly into deeper water—work the edge with a sinking line or weighted nymph. The shallows near the dam warm up in afternoon sun and can hold fish, but they're also where most casual anglers congregate.

Cutthroat are less leader-shy than rainbows, so 4X or 5X tippet is fine. Keep your presentation simple and your casts accurate. These fish see fewer anglers than lowland trout, but they're still wild and selective about what they eat.

Permits, Regulations, and What to Bring

You need a California fishing license. A High Sierra Wilderness permit is also required; you can get one at the Mammoth Lakes Visitor Center or online through the Inyo National Forest website. The permit is free and takes five minutes. Check the current California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations for Lake Mamie before you go—catch limits and gear restrictions can change, and some years have special rules for cutthroat conservation.

Bring a day pack with water, snacks, and a headlamp even if you plan to be back before dark. The elevation means sun exposure is intense and dehydration sneaks up fast. Wear sunscreen. Bring a rain jacket; afternoon storms can develop quickly. A small first-aid kit and a map are smart additions. Cell service is spotty to nonexistent on the trail.

Wading boots with good grip are worth the weight. The lake bottom is rocky and slippery, and the water is cold enough that a slip means real risk. A wading staff helps on the inlet creek crossing.

Getting There and Parking

From Mammoth Lakes town, head west on Highway 203 toward Mammoth Mountain. Turn left onto Lake Mary Road, a paved road that climbs into the high country. Follow it to the end—about 5 miles from the highway. The parking area is at the trailhead for Lake Mary and the surrounding lakes. It's a large lot, but it fills by mid-morning on weekends and holidays.

If the lot is full, you'll need to park along the road or come back another day. There's no overflow parking, and the Forest Service enforces no-parking zones. Arrive early—before 8 a.m. on weekends—or go on a weekday. The road is plowed in winter only as far as the Mammoth Mountain ski resort; the trailhead parking is not maintained for winter access.

The drive from town takes about 20 minutes. Gas up in Mammoth before you head out; there are no services on Lake Mary Road.

Other Lakes on the Same Trail

The Lake Mary trailhead gives you access to several other fisheries without much extra effort. Barney Lake is the closest—about 1.5 miles in—and holds brook and cutthroat trout. George Lake is another mile past Mamie and sits at a higher elevation with colder water and fewer fish but more solitude. Mamie Lake itself is the most balanced option: good fishing, moderate hike, and reliable access.

If Mamie is crowded, Barney is worth trying. If you want to push higher and have the legs for it, George offers a quieter experience. The trail is clear enough that you can decide on the fly based on what you see when you arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a High Sierra Wilderness permit if I'm just day-fishing?

Yes. The permit is required for any entry into the High Sierra Wilderness, whether you're staying overnight or not. It's free and takes five minutes to obtain at the Mammoth Lakes Visitor Center or through the Inyo National Forest website. You can print it at home or pick one up in person.

Can I fish Lake Mamie in winter?

The lake freezes solid most years by December and stays frozen through April. The trail is under snow and unmarked. Winter access requires snowshoes or skis and backcountry navigation skills. Most anglers fish the snow-free window from late June through October.

What's the difference between cutthroat and brook trout at this lake?

Cutthroat are native to the Sierra and are the primary species here. They're aggressive and bite readily. Brook trout were introduced and are less common at Mamie but do occur. Cutthroat have a red slash under the jaw; brook trout have white-edged fins and a darker body. Both are good eating and good sport.

Is the 2.5-mile hike difficult?

It's moderate. The elevation gain is about 500 feet, spread over the full distance. The trail is well-maintained and marked. Most anglers in reasonable fitness complete it in 45 minutes to an hour. The altitude (starting at 8,800 feet) may slow you down if you're not acclimated; take your time and drink water.

What should I do if I hook a large cutthroat?

Keep your rod tip up and let the reel do the work. Cutthroat have soft mouths and can break off if you horse them. Play the fish steadily and don't rush. If you plan to keep it, a small net makes landing easier and safer. If you're releasing it, wet your hands before handling and minimize air exposure.