What to Expect at Upper Payette Lake

Upper Payette Lake sits at 5,400 feet in the Payette National Forest, about 30 miles northeast of McCall. The lake holds native cutthroat trout and brook trout, with cutthroat the primary draw for fly anglers. The water is cold and clear, the shoreline is rocky and forested, and the setting feels genuinely remote—you won't find crowds here, even in peak season. Access is by trail only, which keeps the pressure light and the fish less pressured than in lower-elevation lakes nearby.

The lake spans roughly 40 acres and reaches depths over 100 feet in places. Cutthroat here run small to medium—most fish are 8 to 12 inches, with occasional fish to 14 inches. The season runs from late June through October, depending on snow melt and weather. Early season (late June through July) is often best, when the water is coldest and fish are most active. By August, afternoon thunderstorms are common and water temperatures rise, pushing fish deeper.

Key Takeaways

  • Upper Payette Lake is reached by a 4-mile trail from the Payette Lake trailhead, gaining roughly 1,000 feet in elevation, and requires a full day to fish.
  • Native cutthroat trout are the main species, typically 8 to 12 inches, and respond best to small dry flies and nymphs in early morning and evening.
  • The lake opens when snow melts (usually late June) and closes October 31; check current conditions with the McCall Ranger District before heading out.
  • No motorboats are allowed; fishing is from shore or by wading, and the rocky bottom makes wading boots essential.
  • A valid Idaho fishing license is required, and the daily limit is five cutthroat trout with a 10-inch minimum length.

How to Reach Upper Payette Lake

The trailhead is at Payette Lake, the larger lake immediately below Upper Payette. From McCall, take Highway 55 north about 1 mile, then turn east on Warren Wagon Road (Forest Road 21). Follow it roughly 8 miles to the Payette Lake parking area. The lot fills on weekends in July and August; arrive early or plan a weekday trip.

The trail climbs steadily through lodgepole pine and fir forest. The 4-mile route gains about 1,000 feet and takes most hikers 90 minutes to two hours one way. The path is well-marked but rocky in places. Bring water and snacks; there are no services at the lake. Plan a full day—the hike out takes longer than the hike in, especially if you fish until late afternoon.

The trail is snow-free by late June most years, but early-season trips should be confirmed with the McCall Ranger District (208-634-0400). A late-spring snowpack can block access into early July. Conversely, by mid-September the trail is dry and the crowds have thinned considerably.

Cutthroat Trout Behavior and Fly Patterns

Upper Payette's cutthroat are native fish in a cold, high-altitude lake. They feed actively in early morning and again in the evening, especially during the first two hours after sunrise and the last two hours before dark. Midday fishing is slower, though overcast days and days with wind can produce throughout the day.

Small dry flies work well when insects are hatching. Bring sizes 16 to 20 Adams, Parachute Hatch, and Elk Hair Caddis patterns. Midges are present year-round; a size 18 to 22 Griffith's Gnat can be deadly in early morning. Subsurface, small nymphs (size 16 to 18 Pheasant Tail, Hare's Ear, and Copper John) often outfish dries, especially in deeper water or when no hatch is visible.

Cutthroat here are not leader-shy, but fine tippet (5X to 6X) helps with small flies. Cast near the rocky shoreline and around any visible structure. The fish are not aggressive; expect gentle takes and set the hook with a smooth, firm motion rather than a hard strip-set. Most fish will be in water 3 to 8 feet deep along the edges.

Seasons and Weather Conditions

Late June through July is the prime window. Water temperatures are coldest, fish are most active, and the weather is most stable. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible but not may provide. Mosquitoes can be heavy in July; bring repellent and consider a head net.

August brings warmer water and more frequent afternoon storms. Fish move deeper and feed less predictably during the day. Early morning and evening sessions are essential. The storms themselves can be violent at this elevation; if lightning is visible, get off the water immediately.

September and early October offer excellent conditions. Water cools again, crowds disappear, and the weather is often stable. The downside is shorter daylight and colder air temperatures. Bring a fleece or down jacket even if the day starts mild. The lake closes October 31, so plan accordingly.

Regulations and Licensing

A valid Idaho fishing license is required. Licenses are sold online through the Idaho Department of Fish and Game website, at sporting goods stores in McCall, and at some gas stations. A one-day license costs less than a full-season license if you're visiting briefly.

The daily limit is five cutthroat trout with a 10-inch minimum length. Brook trout, if caught, have the same limit. Bait fishing is allowed but flies and lures are more effective and more practical given the hike. No motorboats are permitted on Upper Payette Lake.

Check the current Idaho fishing regulations before you go; rules can change. The McCall Ranger District office (208-634-0400) can confirm current conditions, trail status, and any temporary closures.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Pack a daypack with water (at least 2 liters), snacks, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Wading boots are essential—the rocky bottom is slippery and the water is cold. A lightweight wading belt helps keep water out if you wade deeper than knee-deep. Bring a headlamp or small flashlight if you plan to fish into the evening.

Wear layers. The elevation means temperature swings are common. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a fleece or wool mid-layer, and bring a windproof jacket. Even in July, a sudden storm or wind can drop the temperature 20 degrees in minutes.

A small net is helpful but not essential. Most cutthroat here are small enough to hand-land. Bring a small tackle box with flies, tippet material, and a few tools (nail knot tool, small scissors, forceps). A 9-foot rod with a 4- or 5-weight line is ideal. If you don't own a rod, fly shops in McCall rent equipment.

Nearby Fishing and Lodging

Payette Lake, directly below Upper Payette, is larger and more accessible by car. It holds kokanee salmon, rainbow trout, and brook trout, and is a good option if the Upper Payette trail is closed or if you want a shorter day. Fishing from shore or a boat is possible; boat rentals are available in McCall.

McCall is the nearest town, about 30 miles away. Hotels, motels, and vacation rentals are available year-round, though prices are higher in July and August. The town has fly shops, restaurants, and grocery stores. If you're planning a longer trip, consider staying in McCall and making Upper Payette a day excursion, or camping at one of the Forest Service campgrounds near Payette Lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I camp at Upper Payette Lake?

No established campsites exist at the lake itself. Dispersed camping is allowed in the Payette National Forest, but the area around the lake is heavily used and fragile. Camp at a Forest Service campground near Payette Lake instead, or stay in McCall and day-hike to fish.

What if I don't fly fish?

Spin gear works, though flies are more effective in this clear, cold water. Small spinners (size 0 to 1) and inline spoons can catch cutthroat. Bait fishing is legal but less practical given the hike and the fish's preference for insects.

Is the trail safe for solo hikers?

The trail is well-marked and heavily used. Solo hiking is common. Tell someone where you're going and when you expect to return. Carry a charged phone (though service is spotty), a headlamp, and a basic first aid kit. The biggest hazard is weather—if a storm develops, head down immediately.

What's the best time to fish if I only have one day?

Late June or early September. Water is cold, fish are active, and weather is most stable. If you must go in July or August, plan to arrive early and fish the first two hours after sunrise, then again in the evening. Midday is slow.

Do I need a bear canister or bear bag?

If you're day-hiking, no. If you camp nearby, check current Forest Service guidance. Bear activity varies by year and season. The McCall Ranger District can tell you what's recommended for your trip dates.