Castle Lake

Castle Creek was blocked by the massive debris avalanche from the 1980 Mt. St. Helen's Eruption which created Castle Lake. Castle Lake has never been stocked, however during a 1991 lake sample, Rainbow Trout were found indicating possible migration from Coldwater Lake. All trout production is wild.

Access can be difficult due to a closed road that leads to the lake. Contact National Volcanic Monument 360-449-7800.

Two-pole fishing is NOT allowed

Special fishing restrictions:

Selective gear rules in effect

Shoreline access: Good - Access will require hiking steep uneven ground.

Species you might catch

Rainbow trout

Lake information

County: Cowlitz
Acreage: 257.70 ac.
Elevation: 2593 ft.
Center: 46.250352, -122.275074
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Fishing resources

Fishing prospects calendar

Rainbow trout

Fishing success for Rainbow Trout is generally best in the spring when thousands of fish are stocked statewide, but they can be caught year-round in most waters with a little patience and persistence. Success remains high into June and gradually declines as water temperatures increase and fish move offshore to stay cool. Fish that escaped the spring harvest return to the nearshore areas in the fall as waters cool off. Some waters may also be stocked again in the fall further boosting catch rates.