Heenan Lake - Markleeville, CA

Lake Information
Fish Species: | Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Lahontan Cutthroat |
Heenan Lake, located near Markleeville, CA, is a high-elevation, seasonal fly fishery managed specifically for Lahontan cutthroat trout. Open only from early September through October, this 130-acre lake provides fly anglers a brief but excellent opportunity to pursue trophy-sized native cutthroats in a pristine alpine setting.
Fishing at Heenan is strictly catch-and-release with barbless, artificial-only gear. The lake is most effectively fished from float tubes or pontoon boats, though shoreline casting is possible in some areas. Lahontans here often cruise the shallows during early fall, and anglers find success using balanced leeches, chironomids, and small streamers retrieved slowly or suspended under indicators.
Because of the trout’s size and cruising patterns, intermediate lines or sink tips help target the proper depth. Fish exceeding 20 inches are common, and their aggressive takes and strong fights require strong tippet and proper landing tools. Dry fly fishing is limited but possible during calm conditions, particularly when callibaetis or terrestrials are present.
While the lake sees pressure due to its short season and trophy potential, regulations help preserve fish health and sustain excellent angling conditions. Weather at over 7,000 feet is variable, so anglers should prepare for wind, cold, and rapid shifts in conditions.
Heenan Lake is one of the best places in California to target wild Lahontan cutthroat in a wilderness-like setting. Its brief season, large fish, and strict regulations make it a bucket-list destination for stillwater fly anglers seeking native trout in alpine terrain.
Fishing at Heenan is strictly catch-and-release with barbless, artificial-only gear. The lake is most effectively fished from float tubes or pontoon boats, though shoreline casting is possible in some areas. Lahontans here often cruise the shallows during early fall, and anglers find success using balanced leeches, chironomids, and small streamers retrieved slowly or suspended under indicators.
Because of the trout’s size and cruising patterns, intermediate lines or sink tips help target the proper depth. Fish exceeding 20 inches are common, and their aggressive takes and strong fights require strong tippet and proper landing tools. Dry fly fishing is limited but possible during calm conditions, particularly when callibaetis or terrestrials are present.
While the lake sees pressure due to its short season and trophy potential, regulations help preserve fish health and sustain excellent angling conditions. Weather at over 7,000 feet is variable, so anglers should prepare for wind, cold, and rapid shifts in conditions.
Heenan Lake is one of the best places in California to target wild Lahontan cutthroat in a wilderness-like setting. Its brief season, large fish, and strict regulations make it a bucket-list destination for stillwater fly anglers seeking native trout in alpine terrain.
Latest Fish Reports
Date | Report | Author |
10-31-2024 | Open until November 30th Located on top of Monitor pass. Is open... more » |
Doug Busey |
10-30-2024 | Heenan Lake- Angler Report Steve Thornton shared a fishing report from Heenan... more » |
Fish Reports Staff |
9-12-2024 | The first week was very good fishing The lake is not open from sunrise to... more » |
Doug Busey |
8-22-2024 | Lake Opens September 1st The lake will open to catch and release... more » |
Doug Busey |
11-3-2023 | Open until November 30th Sep. 1 through Nov. 30. Only artificial lures... more » |
Doug Busey |
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