What makes a destination one of the best places to fish in California? For some, it’s about attempting to hook a trophy-sized catch. Others it’s being somewhere that gives you a bit of tranquility from daily life. Or maybe, you prefer to be surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery. Regardless of what your definition is, we guarantee you’ll find it in the Yosemite | Madera county region. Here’s a glimpse of what to expect.

Yosemite might offer one of the coolest venues for fishing. From the creeks and rivers like the mighty Merced surrounded by the massive granite walls of the Yosemite Valley to the crystal clear waters of high alpine lakes in the High Sierra, there’s a vast amount of waterway to choose from. For a full run-down of all our favorite spots to cast in Yosemite be sure to read our article: The Rivers Runs Through It - Fishing Spots in Yosemite.

Just like anywhere else, there’s a certain time fishing is permitted. Fishing season, particularly for stream and river fishing, begins on the last Saturday in April and continues through November 15. The only exception to this rule is Frog Creek near Lake Eleanor, which opens June 15. All other lakes and reservoirs (including Merced Lake) are open to visitors for fishing year-round.

In addition to when and where you can fish, be aware that anyone above the age of 16 MUST have a valid California sporting fishing license. And if you’re fishing on the Merced River within Yosemite Valley from Happy Isles to Foresta Bridge, you must catch-and-release any native Rainbow trout.

For more detailed information regarding the fishing regulations within Yosemite, please visit the NPS fishing page.

The world-class fishing doesn’t just stop at the boundaries of the park. In fact, there’s a myriad of places that you can cast your line such as:

Fondly considered as a smaller version of Lake Tahoe, this pine-trimmed reservoir is in fact one of the best places to fish in California. If you’re a trophy fish hunter, this is your lake. Many hefty Bass and Kokanee beauties get pulled out of the waters annually. And for those looking for a friendly competition, the annual Bass Lake Fishing Derby is a must! Instead of the normal competition where it’s based on fish length, this extravaganza is all about a specific fish with a specific tag where you can win up to $10,000!

For more information about Bass Lake fishing, regulations, and other cool stuff, visit BassLakeCA.com.

Butting up to Yosemite National Park is some gorgeous public lands that provide a respite from the busier times of year and still offer an opportunity to see things like Giant Sequoias and waterfalls. Alongside these pleasant attractions, you’ll also find some great fishing spots such as Mammoth Pool.

A reservoir located on the San Joaquin River within a steep canyon that’s over 3,000 feet high. While the road to this scenic lake is often blocked by snow until April, it provides a great opportunity to catch Rainbow and Brown trout. In fact, the lake is known for its hulking Browns that can tip the scale up to fifteen pounds in weight.

Note: Be aware that the lake and its surrounding tributaries are closed from May 1^st to June 15^th for deer migration.

This isn't the only spot to fish on the San Joaquin River either. If you want to learn more about all the fishing spots up and down this iconic waterway be sure to read our article: Cast Off To Fun At These Fishing Lakes Of The San Joaquin Gorge.

Does a wine tour AND a bit of fishing fit your model of a perfect getaway? Well, you’re in luck! Explore one of the oldest wine regions in the US on the Madera Wine Trail and top it off with some amazing fishing too in rivers, lakes, and streams like Sycamore Island.

A 600-acre natural area right on the San Joaquin River and easily accessible for all! In this part of the river, you’ll find trout, bass, catfish, and crappie. In addition to the river, there are multiple ponds you can also fish. If you have an urge to be out on the water, rent a two-person canoe or one-person kayak for an hour or all day via the bait shop.

Note: The park is open seven days a week all year long! 

For more information about Sycamore Island, visit the River Parkway website.

As you can see, if you need to step away from the daily stresses and go on a fishing trip, the Visit Yosemite | Madera County region is home to some of the best fishing places in California. It's time to get out there and “get hooked!”

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