What You'll Find at Fish Lake

Fish Lake sits in the Okanogan National Forest about 30 miles south of Okanogan, at roughly 3,200 feet elevation. The lake holds rainbow trout and is managed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. It's a small, shallow mountain lake — roughly 40 acres — that warms enough by mid-summer to support decent fishing from shore and small boats. The water stays cold enough through spring and early summer that trout remain active throughout the day, making it a reliable option when lower-elevation lakes are already warming up.

The lake has a developed campground with vault toilets, a boat launch, and parking. There's no gas station or store at the lake itself, so bring fuel and supplies from Okanogan. The setting is typical high desert — ponderosa pine and sagebrush — with views toward the North Cascades on clear days.

Key Takeaways

  • Fish Lake holds rainbow trout and opens to fishing year-round, though spring through early fall is most productive.
  • The lake is shallow and warms by midsummer, so focus on early morning and evening fishing in July and August.
  • Shore fishing works well from the campground and boat launch areas; small boats and float tubes are common.
  • The Forest Service campground has 13 sites with vault toilets but no hookups; arrive early on weekends.
  • Bring your own food, fuel, and drinking water — the nearest services are in Okanogan, 30 miles north.

When to Fish and What to Expect

Spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) are the most consistent times. Water temperatures are cool, trout feed throughout the day, and you'll avoid the afternoon heat. Early morning and dusk are always productive, but during these seasons you can catch fish from mid-morning through mid-afternoon as well.

Summer (June through August) can be good early and late in the day, but midday fishing slows considerably as the lake warms. If you're fishing in July or August, plan to be on the water by sunrise and again from late afternoon into dusk. Winter fishing is possible but the lake can freeze over, and access may be limited by snow on the forest road.

Expect rainbows in the 8- to 14-inch range, with occasional fish to 16 inches. The lake doesn't produce trophy fish, but it's reliable for steady action if conditions are right.

Tackle and Techniques That Work

From shore, small spinners (size 1 or 2) in silver or gold work consistently. Cast along the drop-offs near the boat launch and campground. Panfish jigs tipped with a small piece of worm or PowerBait also produce, especially in deeper water off the north shore. If you're using bait, salmon eggs or nightcrawlers under a simple bobber will catch fish, particularly in spring.

Fly anglers do well with small nymphs — Hare's Ears and Pheasant Tails in sizes 14 to 16 — fished on a slow sink line. Dry fly fishing can be productive in late evening, especially in fall. A 4- or 5-weight rod is plenty of power for this lake.

If you bring a boat or float tube, work the deeper basin in the center of the lake and along the eastern shoreline where the bottom drops off more steeply. Trolling small spinners or spoons at a slow pace covers water efficiently and often produces better fish than shore fishing.

Access and Facilities

From Okanogan, take Highway 20 south toward Concrete. About 30 miles out, turn east on Forest Road 37 (signed for Fish Lake). The road is paved for most of the distance but becomes gravel in the final few miles. It's passable in a standard car in dry conditions, but high-clearance is safer after rain or snow. Check with the Okanogan National Forest office in Okanogan before heading out if weather has been wet.

The Forest Service campground has 13 sites available on a first-come, first-served basis. Sites cost around $15 per night (fees vary; check the Forest Service website for current rates). There are vault toilets but no running water, no electrical hookups, and no dump station. The boat launch is a simple gravel ramp suitable for small boats, canoes, and float tubes.

Parking is available at the campground and near the boat launch. The lake is open to day-use visitors as well as campers, so you don't have to stay overnight to fish.

Regulations and Licensing

You need a current Washington fishing license. The lake is open year-round, but check the current Washington Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet for any seasonal closures or special restrictions — these can change. The general rule is catch-and-release or a daily limit of five trout, but confirm the current regulation before you fish.

Motorboats are allowed, but the lake is small enough that electric motors or oars are more practical than gas engines. No jet skis or personal watercraft.

What to Bring and What to Know

Bring plenty of water — there's no potable water at the lake. The campground has vault toilets but no shower facilities. Cell service is spotty to nonexistent, so don't rely on your phone for navigation or emergencies. Bring a map and know the route before you leave Okanogan.

The area can be windy in spring and early summer, which can make the lake choppy and fishing difficult. Afternoons are typically windier than mornings. Mosquitoes can be heavy in early summer, especially near the campground; bring repellent.

Wildlife in the area includes black bears, so store food properly in your vehicle or use bear-proof containers if the campground provides them. Don't leave food or trash at your site. Mountain lions are present but rarely seen. Rattlesnakes are possible in the sagebrush areas around the lake but are not common at the water's edge.

Nearby Water and Alternatives

If Fish Lake is crowded or not producing, several other options are within an hour's drive. Chopaka Lake, about 20 miles northeast toward the Canadian border, holds similar rainbow populations and is less developed. Spectacle Lake, south of Okanogan, is larger and often has better fishing for bigger fish, though it can be windier.

The Okanogan River itself runs through the valley and holds both rainbow and cutthroat trout, along with some smallmouth bass in slower sections. River fishing requires different techniques and a willingness to wade, but it's a good option if you want moving water instead of stillwater.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Fish Lake in winter?

Yes, the lake is open year-round, but winter access depends on snow and road conditions. The forest road can become impassable, and the lake may freeze over. Call the Okanogan National Forest office before making the trip in December through February.

Is there a boat ramp, and can I bring a motorboat?

There is a gravel boat ramp suitable for small boats and canoes. Motorboats are allowed, but the lake is small and electric motors or oars are more practical. Gas engines are legal but not common here.

What's the best time of year to fish?

Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are most consistent. Summer fishing is good early and late in the day. Winter is possible but weather-dependent.

Do I need to make a campground reservation?

No, the 13 sites are first-come, first-served. Arrive early on weekends, especially in summer. Day-use fishing without camping is also allowed.

What should I do if I don't catch fish?

Try different depths — work the deeper basin in the center of the lake rather than shallow shore areas. Switch to smaller lures or flies, and fish early morning or late evening. If the lake is warm and slow, consider Spectacle Lake or the Okanogan River as alternatives.