Indian Creek Reservoir - Markleeville, CA

Lake Information

Fish Species: Rainbow Trout, Lahontan Cutthroat
Indian Creek Reservoir, located near Markleeville in Alpine County, CA, is a modest-sized Sierra stillwater known for its dependable trout fishing and scenic, accessible location. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, the reservoir holds rainbow trout, Lahontan cutthroat, and occasional brown trout. It offers consistent stocking and strong fly fishing conditions, particularly in spring and fall.

The reservoir features ample structure including weed beds, submerged timber, and gently sloping shorelines that allow for productive wade and float-tube fishing. Chironomid hatches dominate in spring, while balanced leeches, buggers, and damselfly nymphs produce steady results throughout the season. Indicator rigs are effective for stillwater presentations, while streamer fishing along the drop-offs can yield larger trout.

Though Indian Creek is open to all tackle types, it fishes well for fly anglers due to its clarity and fishable shoreline. The lake is most productive during early and late hours in summer, while fall sees a resurgence in activity as water temperatures cool. Limited dry fly fishing is possible during caddis and callibaetis hatches.

Easily accessed by road with nearby camping and day-use areas, the lake is ideal for both beginner and intermediate fly anglers. Its consistent action, multiple trout species, and proximity to Hot Creek, East Carson River, and the rest of Alpine County make it a reliable and worthwhile stillwater destination in the Eastern Sierra region.



Latest Photos

Photo Credit: Photo courtesy of CDFW Rep Ben Ewing
5-17-2021
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Tim Reynolds
1-7-2020
6 lbs. 8 oz.
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Ron Gonzales
Ron Gonzales
11-22-2019
Limits of Rainbow Trout fishing from a kayak at Indian Creek.
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Tim Reynolds
Tim Reynolds
7-8-2019

Indian Creek Reservoir Whoppers

Species Weight Date Report
Rainbow Trout 7 lbs. 2 oz. 6-27-2017 View Report
Rainbow Trout 6 lbs. 8 oz. 11-22-2019 View Report
Rainbow Trout 6 lbs. 3 oz. 6-08-2019 View Report

Latest Fish Plants

Plant DateSpeciesSourceTotal Pounds
5-12-2025Rainbow TroutCDFW 
5-20-2024Rainbow TroutCDFW 
6-14-2023Rainbow TroutAlpine County 
5-22-2023Rainbow TroutCDFW 
4-18-2022Rainbow TroutCDFW 


Latest Fish Reports

Date Report Author
4-10-2025 Fishing has been slow and the lake is starting to get a little green
The campground is closed and do not have... more »
Doug Busey
3-29-2025 Both roads are open, but with weather coming in, use cation venturing in there
Both roads are open, but with weather coming... more »
Doug Busey
2-27-2025 Be wary of both roads into the lake
I did not venture in this week. and... more »
Doug Busey
2-5-2025 The lake was frozen over last week and unstable
The lake was frozen over last week and... more »
Doug Busey
1-16-2025 Indian Creek Reservoir Report
I did not fish the lake over the last... more »
Doug Busey

Detailed Map