Fish Manzanita Lake

Manzanita Lake is the most popular fishing lake in Lassen Volcanic National Park and is excellent for both rod and reel and fly fishing. The lake holds a fair number of rainbow and brown trout and is rated as a blue-ribbon fly fishery by the state of California Department of Fish and Game. This high-elevation lake (5,850 feet) offers spectacular views of the towering Lassen Peak and Chaos Crags volcanoes. More than 300 years ago, a rock avalanche from Chaos Crags dammed Manzanita Creek creating this shallow lake. With a deepest point of only 30 feet, trout often cruise the lake's large, shallow flats in search of food. Due to the large number of visitors to the lake, the fish are not easily spooked by humans. Regulations To ensure the availabilty of fish for all visitors, fishing in this lake is limited to catch and release with a single, barbless hook. Only lures and flies are permitted; no living or non-living bait may be used. The lake is not stocked, however fish stocking did occur prior to the park's establishment in 1916. A California State fishing license is requred. Please review all fishing regulations prior to fishing in the park. Boating Kayaks, canoes, waders, and float tubes are commonly used. Only non-motorized boats are permitted (boats may not carry or use a motor). All watercraft must be launched from the boat launch to prevent damage to the shoreline wetlands. Rod and Reel For fishing with a rod and reel it is recommended that clear six-pound test line or smaller be used. At times the lake is crystal clear, and fish can see heavier line. A light spinning reel and nimble rod are a good choice for casting long distances and a sporting fight. Fly Fishing Manzanita Lake is nationally known for its fly-fishing opportunities. For fly fishing, a six-weight rod is recommended with a length of 9 to 10.5 feet with a #5 or #6 leader. Due to the abundance of willows around the lake, fly fishing can be challanging. Waders are advised. Most flies will work, however a few popular flies that work throughout the park are: Callibaetis (#16-18) Damsel Nymph (#14) Parachute Adams (#14-20) Traditional Adams (#16-20) Callibaetis Cripple (#14-16) Carpenter Ant (#14-16) Bouface brown (#10) Monroe leech, olive (#10) Manzanita Lake Specific Flies: Midge Patterns Pupa Patterns, Callibraetis Nymphs Damselfly Nymphs Stripping Nymphs, Leech Patterns Wooly Buggers