Great fishing lake. Heavily stocked with trout (not my favorite food) but two of us caught 63 perch one afternoon, 50+ keepers but unfortunately, not many jumbo's. Supposed to great for rock bass but I haven't caught any of them yet. Lots of Kokanee, great views of Mt Rainier, and all-around fun lake to fish. Highly recommended!
From Tacoma, drive I-5 south. Take exit 122 to Camp Murray (Berkley). Turn right on Berkley and then left on Portland Ave. Access is on left after bend in road.
American Lake is open year-round