Big Lake (Big Lake)

The feel

Big Lake is Mat-Su's busiest recreation lake, and heavy boat traffic fills it in summer. Big Lake North and Big Lake South State Recreation Sites both have boat launches off Big Lake Road.

Invasive pike, stocked trout and fall silvers share the same water. Rainbow trout, Arctic char and landlocked salmon are stocked, and illegally introduced northern pike also live here, along with burbot.

What to expect

Water and access

Big Lake North and Big Lake South State Recreation Sites, both with boat launches off Big Lake Road. Big Lake North sits at the end of North Shore Drive, and Big Lake South is at Mile 5 of Big Lake Road.

Species and timing

Northern pike, 2-10 lb with some over 15 lb. Coho, 5-9 lb via Fish Creek, in August and September. Rainbow trout, 10-14 in, in May, June and September. Arctic char and burbot are also here.

Methods and gear

Spin, bait, jig, troll, ice and bank.

License and rules

There is no limit on invasive northern pike, so keep what you catch. Salmon and trout limits are set by season and emergency order. Verify current rules.

Crowds and best time

High crowds, with heavy summer boat traffic.

Parking

Alaska State Parks charges a daily parking and launch fee of about $10-15; verify the amount.

Hazards

Heavy summer boat traffic.

Season and access

Summer open water plus winter access.

Mingo says

Aim for August and September if you want silvers. Pike have no limit, so they are the fish to keep.

Before you go

• Carry about $10-15 for the daily parking and launch fee, and verify it.
• Big Lake North has 60 first-come, first-served campsites with a 7-day limit.
• Big Lake South has 20 wooded sites at Mile 5 of Big Lake Road.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.