Fishing High Banks Lake

High Banks Lake offers a quality Rainbow Trout fishery in a 14-acre seepage lake with 42 feet of maximum depth. The 2023 survey found three age classes of rainbows from 10-16 inches averaging 12.6 inches, indicating good survival and overwinter holdover. Trout dominate the biomass at 86% of total fish weight despite comprising only 13% by numbers. The lake thermally stratifies with optimal trout habitat between 16-20 feet where temperatures stay below 68°F and dissolved oxygen remains above 8 mg/L. The thermocline forms between 14-22 feet, and suitable dissolved oxygen extends to about 20 feet depth. Recent angler complaints about small panfish proved accurate - the survey captured 147 Pumpkinseed from 2-5 inches that are growing below average and may interfere with trout fishing. Eagle Lake strain Rainbow Trout have been stocked annually at 1,620 yearlings since 2016, providing consistent recruitment. The lake has 51 brush shelters installed in 1951 that Rainbow Trout still utilize for cover. This designated Type A trout lake prohibits minnows as bait and has a carry-in access maintained by the U.S. Forest Service. Half the shoreline is National Forest land keeping development minimal. The lake's deep basin and good oxygen levels provide excellent cold-water habitat, though small panfish now compete for angler attention.