Caples Lake - Kirkwood, CA

Spot Information

Fish Species: Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Mackinaw Trout
Caples Lake, a substantial high-elevation reservoir conveniently situated along California's Highway 88 near Kirkwood, stands as a cornerstone of Eastern Sierra angling, renowned for its diverse and prolific trout fishery. This expansive impoundment boasts significant populations of regularly stocked Rainbow and Brown Trout, augmented by a notable presence of often trophy-sized Mackinaw (Lake Trout), offering a broad spectrum of angling pursuits. Shore access is extensive, particularly productive during spring and fall transitions. However, the lake's true potential, especially for large Mackinaw, is best realized through boat-based operations. Trolling, frequently employing downriggers to reach optimal depths, is the most efficacious method, utilizing a variety of large spoons, plugs, and minnow imitations. Fly fishing, while less prevalent, yields success in shallower bays and near inlets with streamer patterns. Caples Lake Resort provides comprehensive amenities, including a full-service marina, boat rentals, and provisions, establishing the lake as a self-contained and highly functional angling hub. Its winter transformation into a prime ice-fishing destination further underscores its year-round utility and appeal. The consistent production of multiple trout species, combined with a well-developed support infrastructure and striking alpine scenery, firmly establishes Caples Lake as a preeminent angling destination within the region, accommodating both casual and dedicated anglers seeking significant sportfishing opportunities.



Latest Photos

1-21-2025
8-21-2024
14 lbs. 8 oz.
6-28-2024
8-18-2022

Caples Lake Whoppers

Species Weight Date Report
Mackinaw Trout 14 lbs. 8 oz. 6-28-2024 View Report
Brown Trout 6 lbs. 7-07-2017 View Report
Rainbow Trout 6 lbs. 6-06-2016 View Report
Brown Trout 5 lbs. 7-07-2017 View Report
Rainbow Trout 5 lbs. 7-04-2018 View Report
Brown Trout 4 lbs. 8 oz. 2-01-2020 View Report
Brown Trout 4 lbs. 7-07-2017 View Report
Rainbow Trout 3 lbs. 2 oz. 6-10-2017 View Report
Rainbow Trout 2 lbs. 6-22-2016 View Report

Latest Fish Plants

Plant DateSpeciesSource# of Fish
9-20-2024Rainbow TroutAlpine County F&G 
8-18-2024Rainbow TroutCDFW 
7-14-2024Rainbow TroutCDFW 
7-01-2024Rainbow TroutCDFW 
6-24-2024Rainbow TroutCDFW 


Latest Fish Reports

Date Report Author
5-29-2025 The resort is open with boat rentals and boat launching
The resort is open with boat rentals and... more »
Doug Busey
5-15-2025 The lake has started to thaw
The lake has started to thaw. For those... more »
Doug Busey
5-1-2025 The lake has some open water near the spillway and by the Woods Creek area
The lake has some open water near the... more »
Doug Busey
4-10-2025 The lake still has a good foot or two of ice on it
The lake still has a good foot or... more »
Doug Busey
3-29-2025 The lake still is frozen and anglers are still out ice fishing
The lake still is frozen and anglers are... more »
Doug Busey

Detailed Map