Lake Mary - Mammoth Lakes, CA

Lake Mary, the largest of the Mammoth Lakes, offers expansive and productive stillwater fly fishing in an easily accessed alpine setting. At 8,900 feet elevation and covering 140 acres, the lake holds rainbow and brown trout, with regular stocking and strong holdover potential.

Spring and early summer are prime times to fly fish Lake Mary. Post-ice-out trout feed actively in the shallows, making indicator rigs with leeches, midges, and chironomids highly effective. As summer progresses, dry fly opportunities emerge with callibaetis, caddis, and terrestrials providing topwater action, especially during calm mornings.

Fall is a favored time for fly anglers, as cooling water temps bring trout back into the shallows and trigger pre-spawn aggression in browns. Streamer fishing along rocky shorelines and drop-offs can yield larger fish during this period.

Float tubes and small boats enhance access, though the lake also offers decent shoreline casting in several areas. Productive zones include the inlet, western points, and deeper rocky pockets. The lake is managed for recreation, so fly anglers often find the best success in the early morning or mid-week when pressure is lower.

Lake Mary is a top-tier option for those looking for a fly fishing lake with consistent action, easy access, and breathtaking Sierra scenery.