Backcountry Fishing: Arrowhead & Emerald Lakes

March 20, 2026

Sometimes the best adventures are the easiest. While most anglers buzz right past Arrowhead Lake on their way up to Skelton or Barney, or to cast around Duck Pass, they leave this small but rewarding lake behind.

Arrowhead and Emerald Lakes offer a different kind of fishing experience in the Mammoth Lakes Basin—one that combines a short hike with quiet, high-alpine water and aggressive trout. For anglers willing to step off the main trail, these lakes reward effort with solitude and consistent action.

Fishing Arrowhead Lake

Just over a mile into the Duck Pass Trail from Coldwater Campground, a fairly steep side trail descends to Arrowhead Lake. While visible from the main trail, it’s often overlooked—making it one of the more peaceful fishing spots in the area.

This 12-acre alpine lake is surrounded by evergreens and feels like a hidden gem. Despite its backcountry setting, it’s relatively easy to reach, with a hike of just under two miles round-trip.

Home to aggressive brook trout and some rainbow trout
Best fishing along the inlets and outlet
Ideal for a short hike fishing trip

A large rock outcropping on the southern end is a popular place to take a break, have lunch, or enjoy the alpine setting.

Fishing Emerald Lakes

Emerald Lakes sit further along the Duck Pass Trail and offer a more remote and quiet fishing experience. These lakes are less trafficked and reward anglers willing to continue past Arrowhead.

Smaller, high-elevation alpine lakes
Primarily home to brook trout
Best suited for anglers seeking solitude

For more adventurous anglers, Arrowhead is often part of a “Duck Pass tripleheader”—fishing Barney, Skelton, and Arrowhead in a single outing.

Best Time to Fish Arrowhead and Emerald Lakes

Fishing conditions at these lakes depend heavily on elevation and seasonal access.

Late Spring–Summer: best access and active fish
Early mornings and evenings: peak feeding times
Short season due to high elevation

Because of the limited feeding window, timing and presentation play a key role in success.

Getting There

Main Street (State Highway 203) in Mammoth Lakes leads to Lake Mary Road, which connects the town to the Mammoth Lakes Basin. Follow Lake Mary Road past Twin Lakes and take the second left just before Lake Mary.

The road follows the shoreline to Coldwater Campground, where the trailhead begins near the back of the campground.

For anglers exploring multiple areas, these lakes are often included as part of a broader fishing in Mammoth Lakes experience.

Camping and Nearby Options

There are a variety of camping options in the Mammoth Lakes Basin, ranging from tent sites to motorhome accommodations, including Coldwater Campground.

Lodging and cabin rentals are also available at nearby lakes such as Twin Lakes, Lake Mary, and Lake Mamie. The area is very popular in the summer, especially on weekends, so reservations are recommended.

These nearby lakes and access points also make this area one of the more versatile fishing spots in the region.

Fishing Tips for Alpine Lakes

Small mountain lakes in the Eastern Sierra like Arrowhead and Emerald are typically home to large populations of brook trout, which are technically part of the char family.

These fish are known for their vibrant coloring and aggressive feeding behavior, especially during their short active season.

Dry flies and small lures work best
Match insect activity for better results
Focus on early and late feeding windows

These high-elevation lakes have short feeding windows, so fishing during peak times is key.

General season regulations apply, with fishing open from the last Saturday in April through November 15.

Know Before You Go

Arrowhead Lake and the surrounding Mammoth Lakes Basin sit at elevations well above 8,000 feet.

Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions with proper clothing layers, sun protection, and hydration. The area is also home to a wide range of wildlife—never approach, feed, or provoke animals.

If heading into the backcountry, always let someone know your plans and expected return time.

Why Fish Arrowhead and Emerald Lakes

For anglers willing to hike a little farther, Arrowhead and Emerald Lakes offer something harder to find—quiet water, aggressive fish, and a true alpine fishing experience.

It’s a reminder that some of the best fishing spots aren’t the busiest—they’re just a little off the main trail.

Author

Dakota Snider

A professional photographer for 10+ years, including four years shooting in Yosemite National Park. When he's not adventuring with a camera in hand, which is rare, Dakota enjoys time spent with friends exploring the Sierra on foot or skis.