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.
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.
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 Date | Species | Source | Total Pounds |
5-12-2025 | Rainbow Trout | CDFW | |
5-20-2024 | Rainbow Trout | CDFW | |
6-14-2023 | Rainbow Trout | Alpine County | |
5-22-2023 | Rainbow Trout | CDFW | |
4-18-2022 | Rainbow Trout | CDFW |
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


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