For years, Heenan Lake was just a quiet stop on fall hikes through Alpine County. The aspens out back of the lake turn brilliant in October, mule deer slip through the groves, and the wide bowl of water sits still under the shadow of Monitor Pass. I’d see float tubes dotting the surface and assume folks were just enjoying a quiet day of fishing. What I didn’t realize back then is that Heenan Lake is one of the Sierra’s most important fisheries — home to some of the largest Lahontan Cutthroat Trout (LCT) in California.
If you’ve never fished here, it’s not like your average Sierra lake. Heenan is a broodstock water, meaning it supplies the eggs that hatch into Lahontans stocked across the range. The fish here aren’t just impressive — they’re part of the species’ survival story. And with trout that can stretch well beyond 20 inches, anglers travel from all over the region for a shot at a true trophy.
Why Heenan Is Different
Unlike the typical high-country lake, Heenan comes with a short, special season: Sept. 1 through Nov. 30, daylight hours only. Add in the rules — artificial lures and barbless hooks only — and it becomes a fishery that rewards preparation and patience.
The average fish here runs around 18 inches, but that’s just the average. Many anglers land 20–24” fish each fall, with stories of even bigger cutthroats cruising the depths. Catch rates hover around half a fish per hour, which might sound slow, but anyone who has hooked into one of these native giants knows why the numbers don’t matter.
Tactics That Work
If you’re a fly angler, chironomids and balanced leeches under an indicator are tried-and-true producers. On calm days you can watch the pods of fish work the shallows, and if you time it right, they’ll crush a well-presented fly. Spin anglers find success trolling or casting spoons — Kastmasters, Thomas Buoyants, and similar staples are go-to choices.
Boats with motors aren’t allowed, so most serious anglers bring float tubes or kayaks to cover water. That said, there are stretches of productive shoreline where you can do well with a little patience and a long cast.
Beyond the Lake
One of the best parts of fishing Heenan is the location. If you’re coming from the Carson Valley or South Lake Tahoe, it’s an easy drive up Highway 89. And if you’re planning a weekend, it pairs perfectly with other local fisheries.
Just over the hill you’ll find the East Carson River, a classic freestone stream that fishes well in the fall. As water temperatures cool, rainbows and browns turn active, making it an excellent complement to a day on Heenan for anglers who enjoy wading moving water.
And don’t overlook the town of Markleeville, just down the road. After a morning of casting at Heenan, you can grab a hearty burger or a warm meal at one of the local spots — the perfect way to swap stories and relive that last big strike. Markleeville has always been a welcoming base camp for Sierra anglers.
Planning Your Trip
- Season: Sept. 1 – Nov. 30, daylight only
- Location: Highway 89 near Markleeville, Alpine County
- Regulations: Artificial lures, barbless hooks only
- Access: No motorized boats; float tubes and kayaks are best
- Nearby Waters: East Walker River, Silver Creek, and the West Carson are all close options
- Pro Tip: Weather changes fast — pack layers, even in September
Why You Should Go
For anglers who have never fished Heenan, it’s more than a chance at a big trout. It’s a chance to connect with a fish that belongs here — a native Lahontan Cutthroat with deep red slashes under the jaw and a history tied to the mountains themselves.
The season is short, the fish are selective, and you won’t fill a cooler here. But one good hook-up at Heenan, one heavy cutthroat rolling in the net, will leave you planning next year’s return. Pair it with a run on the East Walker or a meal in Markleeville, and you’ve got the makings of a classic fall Sierra fishing trip.
