Silver Lake - Kirkwood, CA

Silver Lake, tucked away near Kirkwood, California, is a real gem for those looking to fish in a peaceful, high-mountain setting. Sitting at an elevation of 7,000 feet in the Sierra Nevada, this lake is a favorite spot from late spring through fall. With its cool, crisp air and stunning views, it’s the perfect place to kick back and cast a line.

The lake is stocked regularly with rainbow, brown, and brook trout, some of which grow nice and hefty—up to 8 or 9 pounds! Folks have good luck fishing with PowerBait, worms, or lures like Rapalas, especially in the early morning or just before dusk when the fish are biting best. Whether you prefer fishing from a boat or from the shore, there’s plenty of good spots to settle in. Just be careful of the lake’s rocky bottom if you’re out in a boat—best to bring a depth finder along.

Shore fishing can be fun too, especially near the parking area or on the far side of the lake. The weather's usually pretty mild, with nice cool evenings and daytime highs around 60°F, making it a comfortable place to fish or camp.

So, whether you’re a seasoned angler or just looking to spend a relaxing day by the water, Silver Lake is a great spot to reel in some trout and enjoy the beauty of the Sierra Nevada.