The large-water anchor of the Lakes Basin. A boat opens considerably more of the lake; a shore session suits anglers who choose access carefully. A useful base for fishing, mountain scenery, and a picnic.

Access: Check the public boat-launch facility, fees, water level, and seasonal road access. Keep fishing clear of working launch lanes.

Fishing approach: Match equipment to the target. Nearshore trout casting is a different plan from finding deeper lake trout or kokanee; local advice can save unproductive water.

Host tip: Give Gold Lake a proper morning rather than trying to visit every lake in one day.

Before you go: Wind, cold water, and limited services deserve planning even in summer.

Details for your plan

Type of outing

Road-access alpine

From the Lodge

A Lakes Basin half-day or longer

Access

Public launches & selected shoreline

Fish to look for

Trout, lake trout & kokanee

The idea

Big water in the heart of the basin.

Make a day of it

A Lakes Basin picnic