My brother Paul and I just returned from our Cherry Lake fishing adventure with a couple of trophy-sized trout and unforgettable memories.
Join us on the adventure by clicking Play on the video below:
The air is crisp, your breath fogs in front of you, and the world around you is blanketed in untouched snow. The only sound is the soft crunch of your boots as you make your way toward a frozen shoreline. Before you lies an alpine lake, shimmering under the winter sun, its icy depths hiding a prize worth braving the cold for—trophy trout.
Winter fishing in California’s alpine lakes isn’t just a pastime; it’s an adventure. Fewer crowds, pristine landscapes, and the thrill of landing a fish in extreme conditions make this a bucket-list experience for any angler. If you're ready to step into the wild, here’s how to make the most of your cold-weather fishing expedition.
Understanding the Winter Bite
Trout in alpine lakes behave differently when the temperature drops. As the water cools, their metabolism slows, and they move into deeper, more stable environments. But they still need to eat, and with the right approach, you can trigger a bite even in the harshest conditions.
The key? Patience. Unlike summer fishing, where trout are aggressive, winter fishing requires a strategic and methodical approach.
The Gear That Will Keep You in the Game
Rod & Reel Setup – A light to ultra-light rod paired with a 1000-size reel spooled up with 4lb-6lb test line is your best bet. Alpine lake water is crystal clear, and anything too heavy will spook cautious trout.
Bait & Lures – Bring a mix of live minnows, chartreuse garlic PowerBait, Berkley Mice Tails, Power Eggs, and nightcrawlers. If you prefer lures, go for Luhr-Jensen Super Duper, Kastmster, Rooster Tails, or Little Cleos in silver and gold—colors that mimic natural baitfish and attract lethargic trout.
Clothing & Essentials – Dress in layers, wear waterproof boots, and don’t forget sunglasses. The sun reflecting off the snow and water can be blinding. And always—ALWAYS—carry a thermos of something hot.
Techniques for a Legendary Catch
🌲 Find the Right Spot – Look for areas where the sun hits the water first. These spots warm up slightly, drawing in more active fish.
🎣 Play with Depth – Start casting near the shore, then gradually move deeper. Trout in winter won’t chase bait far, so keep it slow and deliberate.
🚶♂️ Stay Stealthy – You’re in nature’s most untouched setting—don’t ruin it by making too much noise. Alpine lake trout are extra cautious, and a heavy footstep or a sloppy cast could send them darting for cover.
Staying Safe in the Wild
Winter fishing is an adventure, but nature doesn’t play by the rules. Before heading out, check the weather. Mountain conditions can change in an instant, and what starts as a clear day can turn into a whiteout in no time. Our recommendation is to call the local ranger station before heading out.
We called Groveland Ranger Station prior to heading out and got a lot of info on road conditions, lake levels, etc. for our Cherry Lake trip.
If you’re fishing on a frozen lake, ensure the ice is at least 4 inches thick before stepping on it. Always bring a buddy and pack safety gear—ice picks, a rope, and a way to communicate in case of an emergency.
When to Go & How to Make It Epic
The best part? You don’t have to wake up at the crack of dawn. In winter, trout are most active during the warmest part of the day—usually mid-morning to early afternoon. Take your time, soak in the views, and enjoy the solitude that only a winter fishing trip can provide.
If you’ve never fished an alpine lake in winter, this is your sign to go. Load up your gear, grab a friend, and head into the mountains. Whether you catch the biggest trout of your life or just spend a day surrounded by untouched wilderness, one thing is certain—you’ll walk away with a story worth telling.
Want to Learn More About Trout Fishing and Meet Like-minded People?
Trout Meetup - Friday, February 7th, 6 PM - 9 PM
7 spots remaining. Waitlist after.
Learn from each other sharing insights and techniques for Trout fishing.
Explore gear and products designed to enhance your success on the water.
Enjoy Pulled Pork BBQ sandwiches and drinks while socializing with like-minded anglers.
This is your chance to build meaningful connections and pick up a few tips and tricks from fellow anglers.
Event Details:
Maximum attendance: 20 people
Registration: Free.
Optional BBQ Sandwich & Drink Ticket: $30.
Don’t miss out—secure your spot now!
Last event recap video:
Catch Happy.
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