9/27/26 - 10/3/26 | Central Sierra Fishing Report
Central Sierra Fishing Report
Shaver Lake • Huntington Lake • Wishon Reservoir • Courtright Reservoir • Pine Flat Lake • Kings River • Bass Lake
Fishing conditions across the Central Sierra continue to change as water levels decline and fall patterns develop. While Shaver Lake's trout bite has slowed following a recent stocking, Huntington Lake and Wishon Reservoir remain productive destinations for anglers.
Shaver Lake
Less than two weeks ago, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife stocked Shaver Lake with 5,000 pounds of trout averaging nearly one pound each. The plant initially produced outstanding fishing, with Steve Blair of Hanford and Lloyd Holland of Auberry catching and releasing 55 trout just two days later. Guide Joon Nguyen of Reel Time Guide Services followed with five limits for his clients. However, the bite has since slowed considerably, with recent reports ranging from zero to five trout per outing. The fish appear to have scattered, possibly due to declining water levels.
Nguyen reported that the water had dropped to the bottom of the old Sierra Marina ramp, while the newer ramp was already out of the water. Second year kokanee fishing remains inconsistent, although he expects improvement as temperatures cool. Third year kokanee have largely disappeared as spawning season progresses.
Jarrett Watson of Shaver Lake Sports reported productive shore fishing earlier in the week between Shaver Lake Marina, North Shore, and Dam Shore. Chartreuse Garlic, Cheese, and Yellow Corn PowerBait have been popular choices. For smallmouth bass, Watson recommends spinners around deeper rocky structure or crickets near creek mouths and steep rock faces. With water levels changing, anglers should explore new areas rather than relying on traditional spots like Dorabelle Cove and Bikini Cove.
Huntington Lake
Huntington Lake also received a recent stocking of approximately 5,000 larger trout. With relatively light fishing pressure, the lake remains a strong option for trout and second year kokanee.
Trollers have found success between the boat launch and the dams using pink or green and orange Troutbusters behind weighted Mountain Flashers on side rods, approximately 100 feet back. Mountain Dodgers paired with corn or nightcrawlers have also worked well on downriggers. The most productive depths have ranged from 35 to 60 feet.
Wishon Reservoir and Courtright Reservoir
Wishon continues to produce excellent trout fishing. Greg Freeman of Sanger, Terry Walton of Piedra, and Aaron Morieta of Sanger recently caught and released 56 rainbow trout using three rods in the upper 30 feet of water.
Guide Joon Nguyen of Reel Time Guide Services also enjoyed a successful Saturday outing with two guests, landing 50 trout. The group kept two limits and released the remaining 40 fish.
Nguyen reported that Wishon's rental docks were scheduled for removal, leaving only the metal dock available. The boat ramp remained usable at the time of the report. Courtright Reservoir continues to experience extremely low water levels, although both reservoirs have received substantial trout stockings over the past two months.
Pine Flat Lake and Kings River
Pine Flat Lake remains extremely low, with several areas taking on a narrow, riverlike appearance. Launching is reportedly possible at Lake View and Trimmer, while other ramps remain unusable. Fishing has been slow, with one experienced angler reporting no trout or salmon during a recent outing.
The Kings River below Pine Flat Dam continues to provide productive trout fishing thanks to regular stockings. Anglers casting lures have reported limits at several locations along the river.
Bass Lake
Bass Lake continues to experience declining water levels and slow trolling conditions. Guide Mike Beighey of Mike's Bass Lake Fishing Tours believes quality trout are still present and recommends shore fishing with orange or chartreuse PowerBait.
California Department of Fish and Wildlife Stocking Update
No additional trout plants were scheduled for the area this week, with the exception of regular stockings in the Kings River below Pine Flat Dam.
Best Bets for This Week
Wishon Reservoir and Huntington Lake remain the top choices for anglers this week. Both lakes have benefited from substantial trout stockings and continue to provide productive fishing opportunities.
For the latest fishing conditions and tackle recommendations, stop by Shaver Lake Sports and speak with Jarrett Watson before heading out.
Tight lines, and good luck on the water!