Getting There

To reach Lower Golden Trout Lake, park at the North Lake Trailhead. North Lake is located outside of Bishop in the Lake Sabrina area. The trail leads to Piute Pass and into the High Sierra Backcountry.

The Hike

The trail to Lower Golden Trout Lake starts in a forested area and works it's way westward and uphill for the first 1.4 miles. When you reach the first switchbacks you will be exposed to the sun for much of the rest of the way. After passing Loch Leven Lake on the left, the trail climbs gradually to Piute Lake. This is a good place to rest and find some shade. There is little shade for you after this point, up to, and beyond Piute Pass. The hike over Piute Pass is easy and the rest is downhill. To reach Lower Golden Trout Lake, follow the trail around Summit Lake and follow the outlet stream down to Upper Golden Trout Lake and then further down to Lower Golden Trout Lake which is located west of Upper Golden Trout Lake.

The Fishing

Lower Golden Trout Lake fishing produces Goldens and Brookies. It was a bit windy at Lower Golden Trout Lake when we were there so beware. The fishing at Lower Golden Trout Lake turned out Goldens and Brook trout in the 8-10 inch range. Most of the fish we took fell for red Birds Nests or Beadhead Nymphs like Hare's Ears and I think I even put on a Beadhead Caddis Pupa and did well at the inlet area beneath Upper Golden Trout Lake. They took our flies on the move so a little extra action on your presentation may help.

Spinners did not produce at Lower Golden Trout Lake when we were there. Remember that there is no camping around Lower Golden Trout Lake because of overuse. Lake Muriel, a lake with good fishing, makes an excellent alternative to camping at Lower Golden Trout Lake.