Saddlebag Lake - Lee Vining, CA

Saddlebag Lake, perched at over 10,000 feet near Lee Vining, CA, offers exceptional alpine trout fishing in a dramatic high-country setting. The lake supports healthy populations of rainbow, brook, and brown trout, sustained by glacial melt and cool water temperatures. Fishing remains productive throughout the season, particularly from late June through October.

Shore anglers and float tubers have success using PowerBait, salmon eggs, Kastmasters, and spinners. Fly anglers thrive with woolly buggers, midges, and dry fly patterns near the inlet and outlet zones. Trout remain active during most daylight hours due to the lake’s cold temperature, with peak activity early and late in the day.

Saddlebag Lake serves as the entry point to the renowned 20 Lakes Basin, a collection of remote alpine waters accessible by hiking. These lakes offer wild brook and rainbow trout fishing in near-solitude, ideal for adventurous anglers seeking pristine conditions.

Regulations include a five-trout daily limit and standard Eastern Sierra rules. While the Saddlebag Lake Resort has ceased operation, a nearby campground and access from Tioga Pass make the area ideal for extended fishing trips. Saddlebag Lake combines consistent trout action with the scenic splendor of California’s high Sierra wilderness.