Stormy Lake

The feel

Stormy Lake sits in Captain Cook State Recreation Area near Nikiski, at milepost 36.9 of the Kenai Spur Hwy. The boat launch and day-use area let you explore the three semi-separated bays of the lake, and there is a picnic shelter, water and toilets on site.

Anglers may fish for rainbows and arctic char in the lake, and for rainbow trout and silver salmon in nearby Swanson River. The lake was treated with rotenone in 2012 to remove northern pike, then restocked in 2013 with longnose suckers, rainbow trout, Arctic char and Dolly Varden.

What to expect

Water and access

Boat launch and day-use area in Captain Cook State Recreation Area, milepost 36.9 of the Kenai Spur Hwy. From the Seward Hwy South, bear right at the Seward Cut-off onto the Sterling Hwy, then in Soldotna bear right onto the Kenai Spur Hwy.

Species and timing

Rainbows and arctic char in the lake; rainbow trout and silver salmon in Swanson River.

License and rules

Rules on keeping char and Dolly Varden have been restricted in the past, so check the current regulations before you fish.

Bathrooms and water

Toilets and water are on site.

Mingo says

Rules here have changed since the pike removal and restocking, so confirm them before you pack. Swanson River is the place to look for silvers.

Before you go

• Confirm char and Dolly Varden retention rules with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.
• Take the Kenai Spur Hwy to milepost 36.9 for the launch.
• Bring a boat if you want to reach all three bays.

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