Fishing Whitefish Lake
AKA: Whitefish Lake State Park
Popular Fish Species Whitefish Lake, MT
Brook Trout Fishing
Currently, fishing for brook trout in Whitefish Lake is popular due to the abundance of these tasty brookies. Brook trout spawn in the Fall, rather than the Spring, and they are quite prolific spawners. When the lake freezes over, try your luck at ice fishing. Brook trout can be easily caught on flies, small spinners, worms, maggots and wax worms.
Lake Trout Fishing
Fishing for lake trout in Whitefish Lake is often quite good and the fish are plentiful. These large trout prefer water below 60 degrees, however they can be caught from as shallow as 15 to 30 feet in Spring and Fall, to as deep as 150 feet or more during Summer and Winter. It is a monumental assistance to use fish finders, or other electronics to help in locating these roaming schools of lake trout. They feed on baitfish and other small fish, so jigs rigged to imitate their prey often work well straight down under the boat. Trolling with numerous set-ups can also produce good catches. When the lake freezes over, ice fishing for big lake trout with spoons can deliver some great catches.
Northern Pike Fishing
Northern pike are voracious feeders and they have the tools necessary to catch and eat pretty much any food source in the lake. Northerns are very agile and powerful, plus they have big mouths with very sharp teeth. They are currently thriving in the cool waters of Whitefish Lake. This year they are being caught in good quantity and some mighty big sizes. April and May are the best months of the year for northern pike fishing here. Summer is spotty but pike can be caught all summer long. Fall can also be good sometimes stretching into October. Large, flashy lures that mimic the bait they prey upon are great lures for northerns. Effective lures include spoons, spinners, and crankbaits, particularly those with bright colors or metallic finishes to attract the pike's attention. Additionally, big flies, soft plastic swimbaits and jerkbaits can be successful, especially when retrieved erratically to mimic wounded prey. Trolling along weed edges can often entice strikes. When the lake has safe ice in winter, ice fishing for northern pike can be quite thrilling. Use GPS to locate spots you normally find northern pike holding during summer. Portable fish finders can also be a big help.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for brook trout, cutthroat trout, lake trout, yellow perch and northern pike at Whitefish Lake in Montana.
Whitefish Lake Fishing Video
Boating, camping and fishing attract seasonal visitors to Whitefish Lake, a 3,300-acre lake in the northwest part of the state, at the town of Whitefish. The lake is surrounded by nearly 16 miles of scenic shoreline and great mountain views.
Whitefish Lake, located in the picturesque town of Whitefish, Montana, is a renowned fishing destination known for its pristine waters and diverse fish populations. This stunning alpine lake covers approximately 7.6 square miles and offers anglers a rewarding fishing experience amidst breathtaking mountain scenery.
One of the popular fish species found in Whitefish Lake is the native Westslope cutthroat trout. These beautiful and elusive trout are highly sought after by anglers for their vibrant colors and challenging fights. Fly fishing is a popular technique used to target cutthroat trout in Whitefish Lake, with anglers using dry flies, nymphs, or streamers to entice these native fish. The lake's clear waters and scenic shoreline provide a perfect setting for fly fishing enthusiasts.
Whitefish Lake is also home to a variety of other fish species, including lake trout, rainbow trout, yellow perch, and northern pike. Lake trout, also known as "mackinaw," are prized for their large size and can be caught using techniques such as trolling with downriggers or jigging in deeper waters. Rainbow trout offer exciting angling opportunities and can be targeted using fly fishing or spin fishing methods. Yellow perch and northern pike provide additional fishing options, with anglers using various bait and techniques to pursue these species.
Anglers visiting Whitefish Lake should be aware of fishing regulations and obtain the appropriate licenses. It's important to follow catch limits, size restrictions, and specific rules to ensure the conservation and preservation of the fish populations and the surrounding environment.
With its stunning mountain vistas, pristine waters, and a variety of fish species, Whitefish Lake offers anglers a memorable fishing experience in Montana. Whether it's targeting Westslope cutthroat trout, pursuing lake trout, or casting for other popular fish species, Whitefish Lake provides a serene and rewarding angling adventure amidst the natural wonders of Montana's landscapes.
A great place to begin your adventure is Whitefish Lake State Park which has swimming areas, campgrounds with RV hookups, rental boats, parking and a nice boat launch ramp. There is space for fishing from the bank near Whitefish Lake Park Boat Access, as well as a few areas around the lake for those who enjoy a small trek from the roadways to the shore. Trout, perch and northern pike reside here. Ice fishing for lake trout, perch and pike is popular in winter.
Primary fish species residing in Whitefish Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Whitefish Lake Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a popular activity on Whitefish Lake, and anglers can enjoy the convenience of launching their boats from public boat ramps. Motorized boats are allowed on the lake, providing anglers with the opportunity to explore different areas and access prime fishing spots. Whether it's trolling for lake trout, casting for northern pike, or cruising along the scenic shoreline, boating enhances the overall fishing experience on Whitefish Lake.
Fishing Boat Rentals
Marina at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake
Rentals: Pontoon boats, canoes and kayaks
406 863-4000
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
City Beach Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, off Lakeside Blvd, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and no parking.
Whitefish Lake Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off Whitefish Lake Marina Drive, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Marinas
Marina at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake
1380 Wisconsin Ave
Whitefish, MT 59937
406 863-4000
Fishing Guides On Whitefish Lake
Whitefish Lake Charters - trout, pike, perch
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Montana Fishing License.
Camping facilities can be found near Whitefish Lake, allowing anglers to extend their fishing trips and fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. Campgrounds provide amenities such as picnic areas, fire pits, and restrooms, making it convenient for anglers and their families to relax and unwind after a day on the water.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Whitefish Lake State Park RV Campground - 406 862-3991
Whitefish RV Park - 406 862-7275
Whitefish Lake MT Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Whitefish Lake
Whitefish Lake State Park
1615 W Lakeshore Dr
Whitefish, MT 59937
406 862-3991
Fishing lakes in each state.
080524
Whitefish Lake in MT
MONTANA
Fishing for trout, perch and pike in northwest MT.
