Photo of man fishing on the Merced River

Mountain Waters: Casting Into Late Summer

SNO Staff

For many in the mountain communities, August means getting on the water before the day’s heat arrives. Whether you’re launching a boat on Bass Lake, casting into the Merced River or hiking to an alpine lake in Yosemite National Park, there are still plenty of fishing opportunities close to home.

Here’s a look at what anglers should know this week.

Bass Lake

Bass Lake continues to be one of the area’s most popular destinations for warm-water fishing. Anglers can target largemouth bass, spotted bass, kokanee salmon, catfish, crappie and bluegill throughout the summer. The lake’s deeper water helps support several species year-round, making it one of the most diverse fisheries in the Sierra foothills.

During August, the best fishing is often found during the first few hours after sunrise and again in the evening as water temperatures cool. Boaters generally have the advantage this time of year, but shoreline anglers can still find success around rocky points, docks and shaded coves.

Merced River

The Merced River remains a favorite destination for trout anglers both inside and outside Yosemite National Park.

Within Yosemite, anglers should remember that fishing regulations differ from many other California waters. Rainbow trout are catch-and-release only throughout Yosemite National Park, and artificial lures or flies with barbless hooks are required in many areas. The park also has special regulations that vary by location, so anglers should review them before heading out.

Outside the park, sections of the Merced River continue to provide classic Sierra trout fishing, especially during the cooler morning hours.

Yosemite’s Alpine Lakes

If your idea of fishing includes a hike, August is an excellent time to visit Yosemite’s high country.

Many alpine lakes throughout the park contain self-sustaining trout populations, rewarding hikers willing to carry a lightweight rod into the backcountry. While these lakes rarely produce fast action, they offer something many anglers value just as much: solitude, crystal-clear water and spectacular scenery.

Because afternoon thunderstorms can develop quickly in the high country during summer, early starts remain the safest choice for both hiking and fishing.

Before You Go

Before heading out, anglers should remember:

  • A California fishing license is required for anglers age 16 and older in most waters.
  • Always check current California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations, as seasons and restrictions vary by waterway.
  • Yosemite National Park has its own special fishing regulations that differ from many surrounding waters.
  • Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the Sierra during August. If you’re fishing from a boat or hiking into the
  • backcountry, keep an eye on the weather and plan accordingly.

 

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