Lake Hannan Outing: A Private Lowland Gem

This is a rare one. We’ve been granted exclusive access to Lake Hannan at Camp Hamilton—a pristine, undeveloped lowland sanctuary that is strictly off-limits to the public. Through our relationship with the Catholic Church, the gate is open for one day only to chase some of the prettiest trout in the county.

The Tactical Report: Gear & Lines

Hannan isn’t an over-pressured community pond; it’s a healthy, “old-school” West-side fishery. Focus on subtle presentations rather than heavy dredging.

• The Go-To Line: A Slow Intermediate or Hover line ($0.5–1.5\text{ ips}$) is the gold standard. It keeps your flies in the strike zone just above the weed line without snagging.
• For the Deep Bins: If the fish move to the center of the lake, a Type 3 full sink ($3.0–4.0\text{ ips}$) will help you reach the bottom of the ledge.
• The Surface: Keep a dry line rigged. If the sun breaks through, watch for a localized chironomid bite or an intermittent mayfly hatch.

Recommended Fly Patterns

• Sub-Surface: Woolly Buggers (Black, Olive, or Maroon) in sizes 8–12. Carey Specials and Olive Soft Hackles are also killers for the “cutt-bows.”
• The Hatch: Zebra Midges (Black/Silver) in sizes 14–18, or a Parachute Adams (14–16) for surface activity.
• The Shallows: Braided-butt or Marabou Damsel Nymphs in Olive (sizes 10–12). These are the primary food source for Brookies patrolling the shoreline weeds.

Shore-Side Hospitality

When your casting arm needs a break, head to the bank for a classic club spread:

• The Main: The Club is providing hot, hearty chili and non-alcoholic refreshments.
• The Potluck: Please bring an appetizer, side dish, or dessert to share!
• Stewardship Note: Camp Hamilton enforces a strict NO ALCOHOL policy. We are guests on private ground; let’s show them the utmost respect to ensure we’re invited back next season.

Logistics & Boat Sharing

• When: Saturday only, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
• Boat Sharing: If you have an extra seat in your boat or pram, please note it in the “I Will Assist With” sign-up so we can get everyone off the bank and onto the lake.

Directions to the Launch

1. Take Woodinville/Duvall Road to the end.
2. Turn North on SR 203 through Duvall.
3. Pass the first Cherry Valley Road; continue to the second Cherry Valley Road (look for the one slanting uphill on the right).
4. Follow it East toward Lake Fontal for several miles.
5. Watch for the Camp Hamilton sign, head through the yellow gate, and follow the road to the Hannan launch area.

Tight lines—see you at the water’s edge!