Winter Fishing Opportunity – Eagle Lake Trout

Over the years, local families have seen fishers head out at the crack of dawn on freezing cold winter mornings for the thrill of fishing for Eagle Lake Rainbow trout. They are famous for their hard fight and good flavor. Eagle Lake in Lassen County is a premier Stillwater destination famous for its abundance of Eagle Lake trout. Each winter when the water is icy cold, hundreds of folks head out to Eagle Lake for some of that tasty, fun to catch, Eagle Lake Trout.  

According to wildlife.ca.gov, October through February are considered the most productive time for fishing Eagle Lake as the fish move into the shallows. The trout’s predatory nature of life in a lake environment makes for fish with large, squared-off tails for propulsion, large eyes, and increased body size.

• The average Eagle Lake rainbow trout reported in recent catches are about 18 inches in length and two pounds, although they have been known to reach upwards of 28 inches and ten pounds.
• “October through February are the most productive months, so in this area, anglers must be prepared for extreme cold.conditions: Be ready for possible icy roads, frozen boat ramps, and frigid winds. Layer clothing, bring hand and feet warmers, and a warm hat, for sure.”  Read more about fishing for Eagle Lake trout at https://calflyfisher.com/destinations/eagle-lake/ and calflyfisher.com for other destinations in California. 

For information from California Department of Fish & Wildlife on Eagle Lake trout, visit https://wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Fishes/Eagle-Lake-Rainbow-Trout.