Henry's Lake, Idaho — Fishing, Camping & Things to Do Near Island Park

Henry's Lake: Island Park's Trophy Fishing Destination

Henry's Lake sits at 6,472 feet elevation in a stunning mountain valley just north of Island Park, Idaho — about 30 minutes from the West Yellowstone entrance to Yellowstone National Park. The lake is famous among anglers for its trophy-sized hybrid cutthroat-rainbow trout, with fish regularly exceeding 5 pounds and occasional catches over 10 pounds.

Fishing on Henry's Lake

The lake opens for fishing in late May (exact date varies by year) and remains productive through September. Float tubes and small boats are the most popular methods. Shore fishing is possible but less productive. The lake is relatively shallow, which concentrates fish and makes them accessible to intermediate anglers.

• Best months: June and September
• Target species: Yellowstone cutthroat, brook trout, cutthroat-rainbow hybrids
• Regulations: Check current Idaho Fish and Game regulations for limits and special rules
• Boat launch: Public boat ramp on the north shore

Camping Near Henry's Lake

Several campgrounds operate in the Henry's Lake area, including the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation campground on the lake's west shore. Sites typically fill on summer weekends, so reservations are recommended for July and August.

Combining Henry's Lake with Other Activities

Henry's Lake pairs naturally with other Island Park activities. A popular itinerary: morning guided ATV tour with Nomad Yellowstone (departing from Island Park), afternoon fishing at Henry's Lake, evening dinner in West Yellowstone. The lake is also on the route to the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway, making it easy to combine both in a single day trip.

More Island Park travel tips → Things to Do in Island Park, Idaho

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