Indian Heaven Wilderness Lakes

[Beaver1]

Anybody know which lakes in the Indian Heaven WIilderness hold trout? Gifford Pinchot National forest area south east of Mt. St. Helens.

I was going to go backpacking next week and was hoping to bring the 4wt with me. The USFS website lists "15 of the 100 lakes" hold fish. Gee, thanks. I guess I have a 15% of finding the fish? I guess thats better than my usual! :D

[Penobscot]

I think what you will find is that the bigger lakes hold fish and many of the "lakes" are really ponds or marshes.

I've had my eye on this loop, but I have not done it.

http://northwesthiker.com/GPNFHike63.html

[Heron]

I have spent some time over the years hiking and fishing in the Indian Heaven area. The lakes I have caught fish in are Thomas Lake, Blue Lake, and Lake Wapiki, I have heard that Placid Lake also has fish.

I have not found that these lakes have any big fish in them though, mostly brookies in the 4 to 8 inch class, but lots of them. The largest fish caught by me or by fishing partners over the years has been 11".

All in all, a fantastic place to spend time and enjoy the out of doors. the mosquito's are a little more tolerable in the fall also.

[onaga]

A friend just horse packed fish (volunteer usfs) into a few of the lakes this past Saturday. Don't know what size fish (I would assume fingerlings). He's packing right now or I'd call him. My experience is the larger lake all have fish to some degree and you can tell by them jumping in the evening/morning. Should be a great trip, the elk are bugling, the mornings are crisp and leaves are just starting to turn. Enjoy...

[jaxflyfish]

clear lake has fish as well.........

[Beaver1]

Penobscot, I did that exact loop about 7 years ago. It was excellent. Many great vistas and varied terrain. We also added a day hike down south on the PCT to the Indian race track. Pretty cool. If you climb the hill on the south side of it, you can clearly make out the historic race course below. Very cool.

I thought I remembered Blue lake having some trout, but it had been awhile, so I thought I would ask the wise and knowing group here.

I will be sure to share photos and a recount upon my return. Thanks all!