Fishing at Lake Mamie: A Scenic & Quiet Mammoth Lakes Experience

March 16, 2026

Lake Mamie isn’t just one of the most scenic lakes in the Mammoth Lakes Basin—it’s also a quiet, approachable spot for anglers looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed fishing experience.

Whether you’re casting from shore or drifting in a float tube, Mamie offers a different pace compared to larger, busier lakes nearby.

A Lake with a Story

There has long been debate about how Lake Mamie got her name. One theory says that Mamie’s big sister upstream, Lake Mary, was named after Queen Mary of England, with the smaller lake just up the hill, George, being named after her husband. When the outlet beneath Lake Mary was dammed to create a second, smaller lake, it was named Mamie—often used as a nickname for Mary or “grandma.”

Another theory points to the Mammoth Lakes Basin’s more rugged past, suggesting Mamie and Mary were named after local dancehall characters from the region’s mining days.

Whatever its origin, Lake Mamie carries both a sense of history and a bit of Wild West character.

Fishing at Lake Mamie

Lake Mamie is a small, 19-acre alpine lake with clear water and a peaceful setting. While it may not see the same level of pressure as nearby lakes, it consistently offers a rewarding experience for anglers.

No motorboats allowed, keeping the lake calm and quiet
Ideal for float tubes, canoes, and light shore fishing
Half-mile shoreline that’s often less crowded than other basin lakes

Its size and layout make it especially appealing for those who prefer a slower pace and a more personal fishing experience.

A Scenic Fishing Experience

“Lake Mamie has perhaps one of the best views … of any lake in the world.” — Jack Holder, Secrets of Sierra Fishing

Jack Holder’s words ring true. The lake may be small, but it offers a unique kind of magic.

Mamie’s inlet flows in from Lake Mary through a canopy of evergreens, while the outlet feeds a waterfall that drops toward Twin Lakes below. The road crossing above the dam is a popular place to stop, take in the view of Crystal Crag, and watch the light reflect across the water.

Wildlife is common here, especially near the inlet, where deer, coyotes, and even bear are known to pass through.

Local Perspective

Reid Linnastruth was raised in Mammoth Lakes and grew up fishing across the Eastern Sierra. A couple decades later, he now makes his living guiding and working in the area.

“My dad showed me the ropes, and after I broke a few Shakespeare rods, he finally got me a nice one and I knew to take care of that one,” Reid recalled. “Every Sunday was ‘Church Day’ for us, so we went out fishing. That was our church.”

While he’s fished throughout the region—including Hot Creek, Crowley, and Convict Lake—Lake Mamie remains one of his favorite local spots.

“I just have so many great memories of stripping streamers and float tubing on Mamie. I always have a good time up there.”

Best Time to Fish Lake Mamie

Lake Mamie offers consistent fishing throughout the accessible season, with a few key patterns:

Spring–Summer: steady fishing and easy access
Early mornings and evenings: most active periods
Fall: quieter conditions and fewer crowds

Because of its size and calm conditions, it’s a great option for a relaxed half-day or evening session.

A Quiet Alternative in the Basin

Even though Lake Mary and Lake George tend to draw more anglers, Lake Mamie has a quieter, more laid-back appeal.

“It doesn’t ever seem to get too crowded,” Reid said.

With no motorboats and limited traffic beyond a few key access points, it’s easy to find space on the water—especially on a float tube. The clear water, open views, and peaceful surroundings make it just as much about the experience as the fishing itself.

Why Fish Lake Mamie

Lake Mamie offers something different from other fishing spots in Mammoth Lakes. It’s not about chasing the biggest fish or the busiest waters—it’s about slowing down, enjoying the setting, and having a consistently good time on the water.

For anglers looking for a scenic, low-pressure fishing experience, it’s a place that’s easy to return to again and again.

Author

Mike McKenna

Award-winning author and journalist Mike McKenna is the writer behind the new book Casting Around the Eastern Sierra, which was recently awarded runner-up in the Outdoor Writers Association of California's Best Outdoor Guidebook category. The book focuses on fishing in Mammoth Lakes and the surrounding area, with tips and tricks from local experts.