While certain sports or activities require becoming an expert to enjoy, fishing isn’t one of them. One pole, one net, and one tackle box is enough to make an outing well worth it. It’s an easy way to get into the great outdoors and become one with nature while doing something fun at the same time. Here are just a few of our favorite fishing lakes of the High Sierra.
Lake Don Pedro (Groveland)
A Trophy Bass Lake
A recreational gem in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada range is the only way to describe this special place. Near the communities of Groveland, Moccasin, and La Grange, this reservoir is situated in a canyon carved by the Tuolumne River. At over 13,000 acres and 160+ miles of shoreline, this is a “big fish” lake. This body of water has given up a largemouth bass weighing in at 18 lb. 9 oz. back in 2003 with multiple caught annually in the teens range. You’ll also find king salmon around 10 to 12-lbs., kokanee, trout, catfish, bluegill, and a wide variety of bass. The several tributaries draining directly into the lake make sure the water levels remain high AND keep the water temperatures comfortable for fishing and other water activities.
Webber Lake (Truckee)
A 3,000 Acre Haven For Wildlife & Adventure
Few people today are aware of Webber Lake in Truckee, California due to it being privately owned by the Johnson family since 1870. A 3,000-acre haven filled with threatened and endangered species, bird migration corridors and a lake stocked with fish, the area was only visited by a select few as a private campground for generations. Luckily, Mr. and Mrs. Johnson wanted the property preserved and kept like it is. They turned down many lucrative offers and instead sold the property to the Truckee Donner Land Trust. In 2018, its 45-site campground opened for the first time EVER to the public. Demand is high so reservations are recommended. Go to tdlandtrust.org/webber-lakelacey-meadows for reservations.
Lake McSwain (Coulterville)
Twice The Fun
Learn more about this lake and other places to fish in the area
You can’t talk about Lake McSwain without calling out its bigger sibling Lake McClure to the north. These two bodies of water spanning only six miles apart provide two different experiences. With a 10-mph speed limit, Lake McSwain guarantees tranquil waters perfect for great fishing even during popular times of the year. Renowned for its trout population, the lake also attracts bass fishermen. Target rocky points for bass, and explore deep waters, particularly near the dam. For salmon and trout trolling, stick to the main body of the lake. Don’t miss the chance to participate in the annual Lake McSwain Trout Fishing Derby, held in late spring. This derby offers anglers a chance to reel in specially tagged fish to win cash prizes.
Crowley Lake (Mammoth Lakes)
Best Stillwater Trout Fisheries In The United States
Located twelve miles south of Mammoth Lakes, this reservoir on the upper Owens River is heaven for ANY angler. One of the only locations in the Eastern Sierra where visitors can drive up to the water’s edge and a shoreline that adds up to 45 miles, you have a big selection of where you can drop your line. This is considered by many as the best stillwater trout fisheries in the country. Ever since the lake was created in 1941, it has provided ideal habitat to grow large trout. The lake is also home to a vast assortment of other fish such as:
- Eagle Lake (considered the hardest fighters)
- Scrappy Kamloops and Colemans
- Lahontan Cutthroats (Only Native species of Trout)
- Sacramento perch (Largest population in the state)
- Two types of browns: a Scottish version called Lock Lavens and “God’s Fish”—the legendary beastly browns from Germany called Von Behrs
With a unique fishery management plan, they follow general trout season rules for half the season and then turn into a catch-and-release region for the other half so you can visit this lake ANY time of year.
Kerckhoff Lake (North Fork)
A Place To Yourself
Explore the lakes of the San Joaquin Gorge
Only 30 minutes from Bass Lake yet feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of civilization. This long and narrow shaped lake offers a serene escape, enveloping you in seclusion and solitude, perfect for rejuvenating your spirit. It’s likely you’ll have the entire place to yourself, with not a soul in sight. This body of water provides year-round fishing and features eastern brook trout, small mouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. Additionally, it serves as an ideal jumping off point for embarking on adventures along the Sierra Vista Scenic Byway. You can explore attractions like Globe Rock, just seven miles from the town of North Fork, where your journey begins.
Lake Alpine
Not A Generic Experience
Don’t be deterred by the name—this high-altitude gem nestled in Alpine County offers a truly exceptional experience that’s worth the journey. In fact, it’s a top pick on our list of the most scenic lakes in the High Sierra to visit in the summer. Fed by snowmelt, Lake Alpine spans 180 surface acres and is regularly stocked with trout, ensuring the fish are almost always biting. You’ll also discover a handful of charming rustic cabins available for rent right along the lakeshore. With access from Highway 4, we suggest planning your visit on a weekday, so you have your pick of fishing spots along the shore.
Pack your tackle box because you won’t want to waste another second sitting at home missing out on all the fun. Make this the year for your best fishing adventure ever. Be the one that comes home with grand tales of the “monster” you caught and the envy of all your pals. When it comes to fishing, the lakes in the High Sierra offer you some of the best in the world.
Author: Alex Silgalis
Alex founded Local Freshies® in 2014 to be the #1 website providing the “local scoop” on where to eat, drink & play in mountain towns throughout North America. When he’s not writing and executing marketing strategies for small businesses & agencies, he’s in search of the deepest snow in the winter and tackiest dirt in the summer.
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