What McLeod Lake offers and how to fish it

McLeod Lake sits at 8,900 feet in the Inyo National Forest, about 15 miles north of Mammoth Lakes on the road toward June Lake. It is a small alpine reservoir — roughly 10 acres — that holds brook trout and some cutthroat trout. The lake is accessible by car and offers a short walk from the parking area, making it a practical stop if you are already traveling the June Lake Loop or exploring the high country around Mammoth.

The water is cold and clear, typical of Sierra reservoirs at that elevation. Brook trout dominate the catch, running mostly 8 to 12 inches, with occasional fish to 14 inches. The lake receives regular stocking through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife program. Because it is small and relatively shallow, it warms faster than deeper alpine lakes, which can make early morning and late evening the most productive times during summer.

Access is straightforward: drive Highway 395 north from Mammoth, turn onto Highway 158 toward June Lake, and follow signs to McLeod Lake. The parking area is small but usually has space. A short trail leads to the shoreline, and the walk is easy enough that families with children can manage it without difficulty.

Key Takeaways

  • McLeod Lake holds brook trout and cutthroat trout in the 8- to 14-inch range, stocked regularly by California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
  • The lake sits at 8,900 feet on the June Lake Loop road, about 15 miles north of Mammoth, and requires only a short walk from the parking area.
  • Early morning and evening fishing is most productive during summer because the small, shallow lake warms throughout the day.
  • A California fishing license is required, and the lake is open to fishing year-round, though snow and ice close access in winter.

Tackle and technique for small alpine lakes

Bring light tackle. A 4- to 6-weight fly rod works well, or a spinning rod with 4- to 6-pound test line. The trout in McLeod Lake are not large, and they can be line-shy in the clear water, so finer presentations catch more fish than heavy gear.

For fly fishing, small nymphs and dry flies work throughout the season. Pheasant Tail nymphs in sizes 16 to 20, Hare's Ear patterns, and small Callibaetis imitations match the insects in the lake. During summer evenings, small dry flies — Adams, Pale Morning Duns, and Elk Hair Caddis in sizes 14 to 18 — can produce rises. Fish the edges where the shoreline drops off, and work the inlet and outlet areas where water movement concentrates trout.

Spin anglers do well with small spoons (1/8 to 1/4 ounce) in silver or gold, or small spinners. Cast toward structure — fallen trees, rocky points, and the shallow inlet — and retrieve slowly. The lake is small enough that you can cover most of it in a few hours of fishing.

When to fish McLeod Lake

Summer is the main season, from June through September. The lake is accessible by car during this window, and water temperatures are manageable for wading or float tubes. July and August see the most visitors, so early morning fishing offers better solitude and often better results as well.

Spring (May and early June) can be productive as the lake clears and trout become active after winter, but snow may still block the access road. Fall (September and October) is excellent — fewer people, cooler water that keeps trout active all day, and stable weather. By late October, snow begins to accumulate, and the road becomes unreliable.

Winter access is not practical. Snow closes Highway 158 periodically, and the lake itself may freeze. If you are in Mammoth during winter, focus on the lower-elevation lakes and streams that remain open year-round.

Regulations and what to bring

You need a valid California fishing license. A one-day license is available if you are visiting, or you can purchase a longer-term license online through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website. The lake is open to fishing year-round, but access is seasonal due to snow.

The daily limit for trout is five fish. Check current regulations before you go, as limits can change. The lake is catch-and-release friendly — many anglers release their fish to preserve the population, and the small size of most trout makes them less appealing to keep anyway.

Bring sun protection: sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The high elevation means intense UV exposure, and the water reflects additional light. Bring more water than you think you will need — the elevation and dry air dehydrate quickly. A light jacket is useful even in summer, as afternoon winds can cool the lake rapidly.

Comparing McLeod Lake to nearby waters

McLeod Lake is smaller and shallower than Crowley Lake or June Lake, both of which are on the same road system. Crowley Lake, about 20 minutes south, holds larger trout and is better for anglers targeting fish in the 14- to 18-inch range. June Lake itself is larger and offers more amenities — a resort, restaurants, and a marina — but also more crowds.

If you want a quick, easy outing with minimal walking and a good chance of catching trout, McLeod Lake is the choice. If you are willing to drive a bit farther and want larger fish or more facilities, Crowley or June Lake are worth the extra distance. McLeod works well as a secondary stop if you are already on the June Lake Loop exploring multiple waters in a day.

Getting there and what to expect

From Mammoth Lakes, drive north on Highway 395 for about 10 miles. Turn left (west) onto Highway 158 toward June Lake. Continue for roughly 5 miles and watch for the McLeod Lake turnoff on your left. The parking area is small — space for maybe 10 vehicles — and there is no fee. The walk to the water is less than a quarter mile and mostly flat.

The lake has no facilities: no restrooms, no water, no shade structures. Plan accordingly. The shoreline is rocky and uneven in places, so wear sturdy shoes. The lake is popular with day hikers as well as anglers, so expect to see other people, especially on weekends and during peak summer.

Cell service is spotty but usually available. Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return, as is standard practice for any remote fishing trip. The area is bear country, so store food and trash properly if you are staying longer than a few hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat or float tube to fish McLeod Lake?

No. The lake is small enough that shore fishing covers most productive water. A float tube or small raft can extend your reach, but it is not necessary. Many anglers fish successfully from shore, especially if they work the inlet and outlet areas where trout concentrate.

What is the best time of day to fish McLeod Lake?

Early morning and late evening are most productive, especially during summer when the lake warms during the day. Overcast days and days with wind can produce good fishing throughout the day because the trout are less light-sensitive.

Can I fish McLeod Lake in winter?

Access is unreliable. Highway 158 closes periodically due to snow, and the lake may freeze. If you are in Mammoth during winter, focus on lower-elevation waters that remain consistently accessible.

How far is McLeod Lake from Mammoth Lakes town?

About 15 miles north via Highway 395 and Highway 158. The drive takes roughly 25 to 30 minutes depending on road conditions and traffic.

What size trout should I expect to catch?

Most trout run 8 to 12 inches. Fish to 14 inches are caught regularly but less common. The lake is stocked with fingerlings and small adults, so the average size stays modest. The appeal is the ease of access and the reliable chance of catching fish rather than landing trophy trout.