Convict Lake - Mammoth Lakes, CA

Lake Information

Fish Species: Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout
Convict Lake stands as one of the most celebrated trout fisheries in the Eastern Sierra region, combining exceptional accessibility with excellent angling for both stocked and wild trout. Located at 7,580 feet elevation and surrounded by sheer granite cliffs, the lake offers a stunning alpine setting and consistently productive waters. The fishery is dominated by rainbow and brown trout, regularly stocked by CDFW and enhanced by private trophy trout programs.

Trolling is especially effective at Convict due to its depth (reaching over 140 feet) and its elongated, narrow structure, which allows anglers to cover water efficiently. Shore fishing along the west and south shores is highly productive in spring and fall. Bait anglers favor inflated nightcrawlers and garlic-scented PowerBait, while fly anglers find success near the inlet using nymphs and small leech patterns on intermediate or sinking lines.

Float tubes and kayaks offer excellent access to drop-offs and submerged structure. During peak summer, leadcore trolling and deep drifting are essential to reach fish that seek cooler zones. Convict Lake’s clear waters reward finesse tactics—light lines, natural presentations, and early-morning approaches.

Facilities are top-notch, including a marina, general store, lodging, and ADA access. Overall, Convict Lake is a premier year-round trout fishery that combines beauty, convenience, and exceptional angling opportunities.



Latest Photos

6-18-2025
6-18-2025
6-18-2025
6-18-2025

Convict Lake Whoppers

Species Weight Date Report
Rainbow Trout 11 lbs. 4 oz. 6-27-2022 View Report
Rainbow Trout 11 lbs. 4 oz. 11-21-2023 View Report
Rainbow Trout 10 lbs. 5-19-2022 View Report
Rainbow Trout 9 lbs. 11 oz. 5-30-2018 View Report
Rainbow Trout 9 lbs. 10 oz. 5-01-2018 View Report
Rainbow Trout 9 lbs. 6 oz. 4-29-2018 View Report
Rainbow Trout 9 lbs. 5 oz. 10-16-2018 View Report
Rainbow Trout 9 lbs. 4 oz. 10-21-2020 View Report
Rainbow Trout 9 lbs. 4 oz. 7-30-2021 View Report
Rainbow Trout 9 lbs. 11-15-2020 View Report

Latest Fish Plants

Plant DateSpeciesSourceTotal Pounds
6-02-2025Rainbow TroutCDFW 
5-19-2025Rainbow TroutCDFW 
5-05-2025Rainbow TroutCDFW 
4-22-2025Rainbow TroutCDFW 
10-20-2024Rainbow TroutCDFW 


Latest Fish Reports

Date Report Author
6-18-2025 That’s a wrap on the the Spring Derby
That’s a wrap on the the Spring Derby. Thank... more »
Convict Lake Staff
5-26-2025 Convict Lake Fishing Report
We’re 30 days into the Season and fishing... more »
Convict Lake Staff
5-13-2025 Fishing season have been great so far!
Photo dump! Fishing season have been great so... more »
Convict Lake Staff
4-29-2025 Opening Weekend at Convict Lake
Photo dump! Opening Weekend at Convict Lake ... more »
Convict Lake Staff
4-28-2025 6lb Native brown caught and released on Opening Day
6lb Native brown caught and released on Opening... more »
Convict Lake Staff

Detailed Map