RenoLipRipper
09-06-2011, 04:54 PM
Went to Independence lake on Saturday 09-04. Got there alittle late. Had all the float tube stuff for my wife and I but did not use it. You have to thoroughly clean off you tube and waders and anything else that has been in other waters. Not really a big deal, as they have all the things needed to do so. They don't want any additional invasive species to be introduced into the lake, as they are having success with the reduction and elimination of the undesirable species. Was told they are trying to get rid of the brown trout there by using blocks to the lake. They have 3-4 pontoon boats, huge, that look like they would be good for river fishing, they are one person pontoons. We opted for the kayaks, as we didn't have to get wet and wash off anything. If we opted for the pontoons they had two pairs of force fins that you can use, they hadn't even been out of the box. They don't charge a thing for all of the use of their kayaks or toons. It is run by the Nature Conservacy. According to one of the employees who lives there, who told us he was once a guide on the Madison and some other river in Montana, the bite was a bit slow due to the warmth of the water. I did get one cuthroat while fishing from the kayak. The water is crystal clear. We were very lucky that the usual winds were not present for our day. Sounds like in talking to others the wind is a constant present there. A beautiful lake and day for us. The drive in is not very far or rough. I think it was 5 miles from Jackson Meadows road. The lake is 2.5 miles long. I had my 4x4 and never needed it. It is a bit rocky but as far as tough 4x4, not even close. According to an employee they are open until the snow starts to fall. Did see one awesome bald eagle. I think the fishing would be better either early in the year or later in the year as the water temps are lower. You have to reserve the toon or kayak there at the table they had set up. First come first serve. They would like you to fill out a written survey about your experience at the lake. We were there on Labor day weekend and had no problem getting on the lake.