Kitsap/Mason counties Panther Lake covers 105 surface acres, reaches a maximum depth of about 25 feet and lies at an elevation of 497 feet. Fish species include rainbow trout and largemouth bass. Prime bass habitat includes lots of private docks, overhanging brush and trees, and old logs and wood in the water.
Public access is provided by the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife. The access area is very small with no room to turn around a boat trailer and tow rig. Backing down into the launch area is almost a must unless you have a car-topper or hand carried craft. There is no ramp but the gravel along the shoreline is fairly solid. Probably a four-wheel is the best for a boat trailer launch. It is nearly impossible to float a boat off a trailer during low water conditions of late summer or fall. Limited but usually adequate parking space and a pit toilet are located across the street from the access area.

Overview and photos by: Bob Johansen