Lake Mary is a mid-elevation reservoir with reliable trout and a developed shoreline

Lake Mary sits at 8,760 feet in the Eastern Sierra, about five miles south of Mammoth Lakes town. It is the largest and most accessible of the lakes in the Mammoth Lakes Basin, with a paved road all the way to the parking area and a full-service marina. The lake holds rainbow and brown trout year-round, though the season runs from late April through November. Most anglers fish from shore or boat, and the lake fills quickly on summer weekends.

The water is cold and clear, which means trout can see you and your line. Early morning and late evening produce better than midday. The lake is roughly two miles long and a mile wide, with depths reaching 120 feet in the center. Shallower areas near the inlet and along the north shore hold more fish in spring and fall.

Key Takeaways

  • Lake Mary is open late April through November, and you need a California fishing license valid for the dates you plan to fish.
  • The lake has a paved parking area, boat launch, and marina with rentals, making it accessible without a long hike or four-wheel drive.
  • Rainbow trout dominate the catch; brown trout are present but less common, and fish average 10 to 14 inches with occasional larger fish.
  • Trolling with small spinners or spoons works year-round, while shore anglers do well with Power Bait, small spinners, and fly fishing near the inlet.
  • The lake sits at 8,760 feet, so afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer and weather can change rapidly.

Getting to Lake Mary and what to bring

From Mammoth Lakes town, take Highway 203 south toward the ski resort, then turn right onto Lake Mary Road. The road is paved and well-maintained all the way to the parking area, about five miles from town. In winter, the road closes, usually by November, and does not reopen until late April. Check the Inyo National Forest website or call the Mammoth Ranger Station before you go if you are visiting in late spring or early fall.

Parking is free at the main lot. The marina operates a boat launch and rents aluminum boats, kayaks, and canoes during the season. If you bring your own boat, the launch fee is modest. Shore fishing is free and does not require a reservation. Bring layers—the elevation means mornings are cold even in July, and afternoon wind can pick up quickly. A hat, sunscreen, and water are essential; the sun reflects hard off the water and the thin air offers little protection.

Fishing methods that work at Lake Mary

Trolling is the most consistent method. Use small spinners (size 1 or 2) in silver, gold, or black, or small spoons like Kastmasters or Krocodiles in similar colors. Troll slowly along the drop-offs on the north and east shores, or work the deeper water in the center. Early morning and late evening produce better than midday, when fish move deeper to escape the light.

Shore anglers do well near the inlet on the north end, where moving water concentrates trout. Cast small spinners or use Power Bait on the bottom in two to four feet of water. Fly fishing works well in spring and fall when insects are active. Use small nymphs (size 14 to 18) or dry flies that match what is hatching—midges are common year-round, and mayflies appear in late spring. The shoreline near the marina and along the dam also hold fish, though they are more pressured.

Bait fishing with Power Bait or nightcrawlers works but is less effective than lures or flies. If you use bait, fish early or late and stay away from the main marina area where other anglers concentrate.

When to fish and what the catch looks like

Late April through May is excellent. The lake has just opened, water is cold, and trout are active. Expect fish in the 10- to 14-inch range, with occasional browns in the 15- to 18-inch class. June through August sees more anglers but also more fish, though midday fishing is slower. September and October are often the best months—water cools, trout feed more actively, and crowds thin out.

Rainbow trout make up most of the catch. Brown trout are present but less common and more nocturnal; you are more likely to hook them in early morning or after dark. The lake is stocked regularly by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, so catch rates remain steady even with heavy fishing pressure. A typical day might yield three to six fish for a shore angler, or five to ten for someone trolling.

Rules, limits, and what you need to know

You must have a valid California fishing license. A one-day license costs less than a full-season license and is worth buying if you are visiting for just a day or two. The daily limit is five trout, and all trout must be at least seven inches. Check the current regulations on the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website before you go, as rules can change.

The lake is in the Inyo National Forest, so national forest rules apply. No motors over 10 horsepower are allowed. Fires are not permitted on the shoreline. Pack out all trash, including line and lures. Dogs are allowed but must be under control. The lake is at high elevation, so weather can turn fast—afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August, and you should be off the water by mid-afternoon if storms are building.

Nearby lakes if Lake Mary is crowded or closed

If Lake Mary is full or you want a quieter experience, Mamie Lake and George Lake are within a few miles. Both are smaller and less developed, with fewer anglers. Mamie Lake is accessible by a short walk from the parking area on Lake Mary Road. George Lake requires a longer hike but offers solitude and good fishing for similar-sized trout.

Twin Lakes, further south in the basin, is larger and deeper than Lake Mary and holds bigger trout, though the fishing is less predictable. If you are willing to drive, Crowley Lake (about 20 minutes south) is a major reservoir with excellent fishing and more facilities, but it is also more crowded.

Lodging and services near Lake Mary

Mammoth Lakes town, five miles north, has hotels, restaurants, and a grocery store. The town fills quickly in summer and winter, so book ahead if you plan to stay overnight. Camping is available at several Forest Service campgrounds in the basin, including Mammoth Mountain RV Park and various dispersed camping areas. The nearest gas station and tackle shop are in town.

The marina at Lake Mary has a small store with basic supplies, but it is limited. Bring what you need from town—extra line, hooks, lures, and snacks. Cell service is spotty around the lake, so do not rely on your phone for navigation or emergencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Lake Mary in winter?

No. Lake Mary Road closes in November and does not reopen until late April. The exact dates depend on snow and road conditions. Call the Mammoth Ranger Station or check the Inyo National Forest website to confirm the road is open before you drive.

Do I need a boat to fish Lake Mary?

No. Shore fishing is productive, especially near the inlet and along the north shore. A boat gives you access to deeper water and more shoreline, but many anglers catch fish from the parking area and nearby banks without one.

What is the best time of day to fish?

Early morning (sunrise to 9 a.m.) and late evening (5 p.m. to dark) are most productive. Midday fishing is slower because trout move deeper to escape the bright light. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so plan to be off the water by mid-afternoon.

Are there big trout in Lake Mary?

Most fish run 10 to 14 inches. Brown trout occasionally reach 15 to 18 inches, but they are less common than rainbows. The lake is stocked regularly, so catch rates are steady, but it is not known for trophy fish.

What should I do if the weather turns bad?

Head to shore immediately. Afternoon thunderstorms develop quickly at high elevation and can be dangerous on the water. Lightning is a real risk. If you are in a boat, return to the marina. If you are on shore, move away from open water and tall trees, and wait for the storm to pass.