by James W. Coates

Created on: May 19, 2008   Last Updated: May 21, 2008

Fishing in Mammoth Lakes, California

Mammoth Lakes California, offers some of the best fishing experiences in the Golden State. Easily accessible from most of California's major highways, this premier fishing spot nestled in the Eastern Sierra Region, offers the perfect weekend fishing getaway.

Fishing season in Mono County begins at the end of April each year and runs through to November 15. Some fishing spots such as the Upper Owens River above Benton Bridge to Big Springs, the East Walker River below Bridgeport Reservoir, and Hot Creek stay open all year round. These areas are catch and release only had have strict rules that prohibit the use of any kind of bait, and require fishers to use barbless hooks only. Other year round fishing can be found at the Lower Owens River outside Bishop.

The Department of Fish and Game stock many of the lakes, rivers and streams with trout including Alpers Rainbow trout. Exclusive to the Eastern Sierra, these fish, prized by anglers around the world, have been raised in the area by the Alpers family since 1906 and range in weight from 2 to 3 pounds on average. To attempt a catch, cast your rod in any of the lakes and streams from southern Inyo County to northern Mono County.

For the best place to catch Rainbow, Brook and Brown Trout, head over to the Mammoth Lakes Basin area. Located just above the Town of Mammoth Lakes, the Basin includes Twin Lakes, Lake Mary, Lake George and Lake Mamie. Mammoth Creek is also stocked with pan-sized Rainbow and Brown Trout.

Other popular destinations include Crowley Lake, Rock Creek Lake to Long Lake and the June Lake Loop that includes June Lake, Gull Lake, Silver Lake and Grant Lake. The June Lake Loop offers tackle shops, as well as boat rentals.

Fly fishers can test their skills at either Rush Creek or along the San Joaquin River.

Fishers older than 16 must obtain a license. One-day fishing licenses ($12.60) and two-day licenses ($19.45) for residents and non-residents can be purchased directly from the Department of Fish and Game by calling 760-934-2664 or at various locations around the Town of Mammoth Lakes. Annual resident sport fishing licenses cost $38.85.

To try fishing in Mammoth Lakes without a license, take advantage of one of two free days. Each Year the Department of Fish and Game offer a day in June and a day in September when they allow anglers to fish without a license. Contact the department for more information.

Free fishing days make a great introduction to some of the best fishing in California at Mammoth Lakes.

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