What to expect at Washington Lake

Washington Lake sits in the Uinta National Forest about 30 miles southeast of Kamas, at roughly 8,000 feet elevation. It's a small alpine reservoir—roughly 40 acres—that holds cutthroat trout and brook trout year-round. The lake is accessible by car most of the year, with a short walk from the parking area to the water. The setting is typical high-country Utah: conifer forest, rocky shoreline, and water cold enough that fish stay active even in summer.

This is not a destination lake for most anglers, but it works well if you're already in the Kamas area and want a half-day outing without a long hike. The fish are small to medium—cutthroats typically run 8 to 12 inches, with occasional fish to 14 inches. Brook trout are smaller, usually 6 to 10 inches. Success depends on timing and method more than on the lake itself.

Key Takeaways

  • Washington Lake holds cutthroat and brook trout in a small alpine setting 30 miles from Kamas, accessible by vehicle with minimal hiking.
  • Fish are most active in early morning and late evening, and during overcast days when light penetration is low.
  • Spinners and small soft plastics work better than flies in this shallow, weedy water, especially for brook trout.
  • The lake is open year-round under general Utah fishing rules, but access is easiest from June through October.

When to fish Washington Lake

Early season—June through early July—is often the best window. The lake has just cleared of ice, water temperature is rising into the 50s, and fish are feeding aggressively after winter. Afternoon thunderstorms are common at this elevation, so plan to fish morning and early afternoon, then leave before 3 p.m.

Midsummer (July and August) can be slow during the day because the water warms to the low 60s and fish retreat to deeper water or shade. If you fish midsummer, focus on early morning before 9 a.m. and again after 6 p.m. Overcast days are better than clear ones. Fall (September and early October) is steady—water cools back into the 50s, and fish feed throughout the day, though mornings are still most reliable.

Winter access depends on snow. The road is usually passable through November, but by December snow often blocks the final mile. Spring runoff (April and May) can make the road muddy and impassable. Check current conditions with the Kamas Ranger District before driving up.

How to fish Washington Lake

Washington Lake is shallow—maximum depth around 30 feet, but most of the lake is 10 to 20 feet. Weeds grow thick in summer, especially along the south and east shores. This setup favors spinners and small soft plastics over flies. A 1/8-ounce spinner in silver or gold works well for both species. Cast toward the weed edges and retrieve steadily. Brook trout hit aggressively; cutthroats are more selective and may follow before striking.

Soft plastics—2-inch shads or tubes in white, chartreuse, or natural colors—work on a light jig head (1/16 to 1/8 ounce). Fish them slowly along the bottom in deeper water or around weed edges. This method is slower but often produces larger cutthroats than spinners do.

If you bring a fly rod, small nymphs (size 14 to 16) work better than dry flies because the lake lacks a strong insect hatch. Pheasant tail and hare's ear patterns are reliable. Fish them on a short leader with a small split shot, casting toward deeper water and letting the nymph sink. Dry fly fishing is hit-or-miss and usually produces only in the last hour before dark.

Where to fish on the lake

The parking area is on the north shore. From there, you can walk the shoreline in both directions. The south and east shores have the thickest weed growth and the most shade from surrounding trees—these are the best spots for cutthroats, especially in summer. The west shore is more open and shallower, which can be good for brook trout in early morning.

If you have a float tube or small raft, the deeper water in the center of the lake (15 to 25 feet) holds larger cutthroats, especially in midsummer when they move away from the shallows. The effort of carrying a tube in is worth it if you plan to spend a full day.

Getting there and what to bring

From Kamas, take Highway 150 south toward Oakley. Continue past Oakley on Forest Road 050 (also signed as the Mirror Lake Highway). Washington Lake is marked on the left (east) side of the road. The turnoff is about 30 miles from Kamas. The parking area is small—room for 4 to 6 vehicles. There is no fee and no developed facilities.

Bring water and snacks; there is no water source at the lake. The elevation means weather can change fast—bring a rain jacket even if the forecast looks clear. Mosquitoes are heavy in July and August, so insect repellent is essential. A headlamp is useful if you plan to fish the evening bite. Cell service is unreliable, so don't count on it.

Utah fishing rules apply: a valid fishing license is required. The lake is open year-round, but the general season for cutthroat and brook trout runs through October 31. Check the current Utah fishing guidebook for any changes to bag limits or special regulations.

Alternatives if Washington Lake is crowded or slow

If you arrive and the parking area is full, or if the fishing is slow, Mirror Lake is only a few miles further up the same road. It's larger, deeper, and more reliable for cutthroat and mackinaw trout. The trade-off is a longer drive and more crowded conditions on weekends.

If you want something closer to Kamas, the Provo River below Deer Creek Reservoir holds brown and cutthroat trout and is accessible from several pullouts along Highway 150. The river is smaller and requires more finesse than the lake, but it can be productive in spring and fall.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Washington Lake?

No. The shoreline is accessible from the parking area, and you can reach productive water by walking and casting from shore. A float tube or small raft extends your range and can improve success in midsummer, but it's not required.

What's the best time of day to fish?

Early morning (sunrise to 9 a.m.) is most reliable year-round. Evening (after 6 p.m.) is good in summer when daytime fishing is slow. Midday is usually poor unless the sky is overcast.

Can I keep fish from Washington Lake?

Yes, under Utah's general fishing rules. Check the current guidebook for bag limits, which can vary. Most years the limit is 4 fish per day for cutthroat and brook trout combined, but confirm before you fish.

Is the road to Washington Lake open in winter?

The road is usually passable through November, but snow often blocks it by December. Call the Kamas Ranger District at (435) 783-4338 to confirm current conditions before driving up in late fall or early spring.

What size fish should I expect?

Cutthroats typically run 8 to 12 inches, with occasional fish to 14 inches. Brook trout are smaller, usually 6 to 10 inches. The lake is not known for large fish, but it's a good option for a quick outing with decent odds of catching something.