Wildflowers are sprouting and the water is running deep in creeks and streams which means only one thing. Fishing Season is upon us! This is your chance to catch trout like the steelhead or salmon in one of the many lakes, rivers and other bodies of water that exist. Here’s just an intro of our favorite “fishing holes” in the High Sierra.
Crystal Lake – Home to “Gold” & Scenery
What makes fishing Crystal Lake so unique is that it not only offers breathtaking views of the Sierra, but it also offers a short, solid workout and a chance to strike gold. The relatively small 13-acre lake is home to the usual suspects such as rainbow and brook trout, but it’s also home to a self-sustaining species of golden trout-hybrids. Go here for more tips and reports on fishing in the Mammoth Lakes region.
Mono County – Home to Dozens of Lakes
Learn more about fishing in Mono County
Fishing is BIG in Mono County. In fact, it’s much more than an activity. It’s a passion! With stocking investments made by Mono County, Mammoth Lakes, Bishop, Inyo County, and the California Department of Fish & Wildlife, the Eastern Sierra is stocked with over 650,000 pounds of trout annually. Here you’ll find what seems to be an infinite number of higher alpine lakes offering you solitude, scenery and of course wild trout. If you’re looking for a hike-in destination, we recommend checking out Parker Lake and Little Walker lakes off the June Lake Loop (Hwy 158). For the full list of lakes, check out the Mono County – top fishing spots article.
Lake Tahoe – Angelic Fishing
Mark Twain said it best about Lake Tahoe, “…it must surely be the fairest picture the whole earth affords.” It’s not just about the incredible fishing. When you venture away from the shoreline, you’re greeted with a truly unique perspective. While Lake Tahoe is home to a variety of trout and other species, the largest and most abundant is the Mackinaw. In fact, Tahoe holds the California state record for Mackinaw, weighing in at a hefty 37.6 lbs. To discover more about charters, the species found here, and some of the best spots for casting, visit Go Tahoe North’s fishing page.
Owens River Gorge – Fishing & Climbing in One
Learn more about Owens River Gorge
There are many places to fish in the Owens Valley all year long, but what so many anglers look forward to every spring is the California general trout season. Opening day of fishing season is the last Saturday in April. Locally known as “Fishmas”, it’s anticipated as eagerly as Christmas is, but by adults. The Owens River Gorge gives you the opportunity to enjoy fishing but also world-class rock climbing all in one vacation. If you’re lucky you’ll find the hole where the river disappears under a large talus field then pops back up in a giant pool where the lunkers live. Learn what makes the Owens Gorge great.
Hetch Hetchy – Thundering Waterfalls & Wild Browns
Nestled in the northwest corner of Yosemite National Park, you’re not only sure to reel in a beauty, but you’ll absolutely be awed by the scenery surrounding you. Since it hasn’t been stocked since the 70’s, catching a once in a lifetime wild Brown off the shore could be a reality. Tuolumne County is also home to over 78 lakes from reservoirs to high Alpine Lakes so it can be a bit daunting to pick just one. Don’t worry… the Tuolumne County Visitor’s bureau has you covered with their starter list.
Catching the “Big One” is a relaxing way to get away from the stress of everyday life and a picturesque way to get to know the California High Sierra. All you need is a little bait, maybe a boat and a love of the great outdoors to fish the High Sierra.
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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