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Bass Lake Fishing Report 2024 [Tips, Spots, Pictures, and Everything You Need to Know]

How To Fish Bass Lake | Your Bass Lake Fishing Report

Bass Lake is a moderate sized lake that sits 200 miles away from San Francisco or 272 miles away from Los Angeles.

Overall it’s considered a quiet lake (in the off season), but can be crowded (in the summer peak season) due to its smaller size and the summer traffic (tourists passing through on their way to Yosemite). In this post you’re going to be given the blueprint to fish this lake.

So what are the best tips for fishing Bass Lake? There are three important factors you must know if you want to know how to fish Bass Lake successfully. First, you need to know what kind of fish is in Bass Lake. Second, it’s important for you to know which part of the lake each species can be found. Lastly, knowing what are the best baits that work on Bass Lake is vital. However, tactics, baits, and locations will be different for each type of fish that you target. So let’s talk about the steps you need to take in order to give you the best chance of catching a fish on Bass Lake.

Key Takeaways

This lake gives locals and visitors the opportunity to test their luck in catching one of the many game species this lake has to offer, such as trout, salmon, bass, catfish, bluegill, and much, much more!

Here’s the most recent and updated Bass Lake Fishing Report – it gives you a quick and easy list of some really good fishing spots. If you’re looking for more detail on how to fish each spot scroll down into the article. 

  • The Falls
  • Slide Creek
  • Recreation Point
  • Whitney Cove
  • Sheriff’s Tower Point
  • Willow Cove
  • Salter Creek Cove
  • Buoy Line By the Dam

Here are some additional fast and helpful tips just for you: 

  • The easiest way to fish this lake is by boat, but there are areas to fish from the bank, or by kayak or float tube.
  • There are public boat ramps to use.
  • Camping and RV parking is available.
  • You can buy tackle and groceries at the lake or at one of the tackle shops listed below! 

About Bass Lake

Bass Lake is more shallow than most other reservoirs in California. body of water with the average depth being 30-75 feet and a maximum depth of 95 feet when the lake is completely full. Being nearly 7 miles long and just over a ½-mile across. Fishing Bass Lake can be incredible when you have over 1,170 acres to fish.  

Bass Lake is known to be one of the better Kokanee fisheries in the state, but also grows some big trout and bass.

This is a reservoir that serves as an hydroelectric power source for local California so on some days you’ll notice a good current when the water is being drawn. That’s important because current triggers fish to start biting!

Below is everything you’ll need to know about fishing Bass Lake

Important Lake Warnings

Algae blooms may be present which may affect fishing, swimming, and water contact in general. 

According to parks.ca.gov, “every one of California’s new laws requires boat operators to have a California Boating Card. The card is required for anyone under the age of 41 to operate a boat in California’s waters.”

If you are fishing and camping, fire bans may be in effect due to the ongoing drought conditions.

What Kind Of Fish Are In Bass Lake

  • Rainbow Trout
  • Brown Trout
  • Kokanee Salmon
  • Largemouth Bass
  • Smallmouth Bass
  • Spotted Bass
  • Crappie
  • Bluegill and Sunfish
  • Catfish

Bass Lake Fishing Tips & General Strategies

Another picture of the lake or find a YT video

Ahoy, fellow anglers! Let me introduce you to a real hidden gem in the Golden State, Bass Lake. Trust me, you’re gonna want to drop anchor and cast a line here.

This freshwater hotspot is located smack dab in the heart of the Sierra National Forest, and this lake is brimming with trophy-sized largemouth and smallmouth bass, not to mention trout, catfish, and bluegill. So, you better get your tackle box ready, ’cause you’re in for a reel treat… ya sorry about the dad-joke/pun I just couldn’t help myself.  🙂  

Let’s dive in and explore what this lake has to offer:

Water Clarity: 

The visibility in Bass Lake can vary, but on average, you can expect decent water clarity.

  • During the warmer months, you might encounter a bit of algae bloom, turning the water a little green. But don’t let that scare you away! The fish are still biting, and that’s what matters.

Structures and Cover: 

Bass Lake is a diverse fishery, offering an abundance of different structures and cover where fish love to hide.

  • Rocky Points: These bad boys are like magnets for smallmouth bass. 
  • Fallen Trees: You know what they say, “where there’s wood, there’s fish.” Don’t pass up the opportunity to toss a Texas-rigged worm or spinnerbait around these natural fish hotels.
  • Docks: Largemouth bass, crappie, and trout love hanging out near these man-made structures. Flip or skip a jig or pitch a soft plastic to get their attention.
  • Weed Beds: The aquatic vegetation in Bass Lake provides an excellent hiding place for predatory fish. Punch through the weeds with a heavy jig or toss a frog on top to create some commotion and watch the water explode!
  • Deep cold water: This area is a prime location to fish for trout either from the bank or boat.

Springtime Fishing update

Bass Lake in California is bustling with fish this spring, and anglers have been finding success with various species. Here’s an in-depth look at what’s been working and where to land some awesome catches:

Water Temperature:

  • High 50’s to low 60’s
  • Fish are in the pre-spawn to early spawn stage, so keep that in mind

Water Clarity:

  • Stained with 2-4 foot visibility
  • Clearer water near docks, 4+ foot visibility

Wind and Weather:

  • Expect mild weather, perfect for a day out on the water
  • Wind can vary, but shouldn’t be a deal-breaker

Species Breakdown:

Spotted Bass:

  • Small Worms: Anglers are catching spots using 4″ – 6” worms sizes.
  • Natural colors such as clear/ghost salt and pepper with bright chartreuse tails or ghost watermelon or ghost pumpkin pepper colors have been working. 
  • Spinnerbaits: Slow rolled gold blade spinnerbaits with chartreuse skirts have also been doing the trick, especially around Duces Boat Dock and rock piles
  • Spots have been biting hard and fast in about 10 feet of water off secondary points and in deep creviced coves, especially in the Willow Cove area

Smallmouth Bass:

  • Jerkbaits: Twitch a Megabass Vision 110 jerkbait in cold water to trigger aggressive strikes from smallies.
  • Tube Baits: Rig a Berkley PowerBait Power Tube on a jig head, and bounce it along rocky bottoms to imitate a crawfish.
  • Blade Baits: Fish a Silver Buddy blade bait using a yo-yo retrieve in colder water, mimicking the erratic movement of a dying baitfish.
  • Ned Rig: Pair a Z-Man Finesse TRD with a Ned Rig jig head for a finesse approach, targeting smallmouth in deeper waters.

Largemouth Bass:

  • Jigs: Work a Strike King Tour Grade Football Jig slowly along the bottom, bouncing it off rocks and structure to trigger a reaction bite.
  • Crankbaits: Cast a Rapala DT (Dives-To) Series crankbait near drop-offs and submerged structure, mimicking the movement of baitfish.
  • Spinnerbaits: Slow-roll a War Eagle Screamin’ Eagle spinnerbait in deeper waters or around cover, like submerged boat docks, timber and weed lines. More specifically, the color that’s hot right now is gold blade spinnerbait with a chartreuse skirt when the water is stained.
  • Drop Shot: Rig a Roboworm Straight Tail Worm on a drop-shot setup to target suspending bass in deeper waters, enticing them with a subtle presentation.

Trout

  • Spoons: Little Cleo spoons either casted or trolled and reeling back in a slow, steady pace has been the best performer for catching trout here.
  • Inline Spinners: Work a Mepps Aglia spinner through the water column, targeting trout that are feeding on small baitfish.
  • PowerBait: Rig a floating Berkley PowerBait Trout Dough on a small treble hook to target stocked trout in the lake.
  • Streamer Flys: Similar to a crappie marabou jig this lure mimics a tiny struggling bait fish. Fish with a slow, reel-and-stop, or a steady-constant retrieve to entice hungry trout.

Kokanee:

  • Cold water style fishing is producing plenty of Kokes, although specific techniques haven’t been shared
  • Keep an eye on water temperatures and try your favorite cold water techniques to land these feisty fish

Bluegill:

  • Great fun for the kiddos and a good way to warm up before targeting bass
  • Huge bluegill are biting, but no specific techniques have been mentioned
  • Focus on docks and shallow areas to find these scrappy fighters

Bass Lake – Summer Fishing update

Here’s the lowdown on Bass Lake, California for the summer season, gathered from fellow fishermen’s reports.

Water Conditions:

  • Temperature: Water temps are varying between 65°F and 81°F.
  • Clarity: Water clarity ranges from clear (4+ foot visibility) to muddy (0-2 foot visibility), with some stained (2-4 foot visibility) spots.

Weather & Wind:

  • Expect calm mornings with increasing wind as the day progresses. Be prepared for some windy days that can make fishing a challenge.

Species & Techniques:

Largemouth & Smallmouth Bass:

  • Techniques: Fish slow and deep, focus on steep rocky points with brush or fallen trees. Drop shot, Carolina rigs, and shaky heads are getting the job done.
  • Baits: 4″ shad-colored worms, 7″ plastic worms, and black lizards are doing the trick. Don’t shy away from bold colors like bold bluegill or Aaron’s Magic.

Rainbow Trout:

  • Techniques: Trout fishing reports are scarce, but going deep and slow near weedlines could be your best bet.
  • Baits: Try using Mack’s Lure Wedding Ring Spinner, Luhr-Jensen Needlefish Spoons, and Kastmaster spoons

Top Bass Locations:

  1. Fallen Trees Point: Just past the Sheriff’s tower, catch bass on a shaky head with a bold bluegill worm.
  2. Slide Creek: Slow fishing near deep water with plastic worms is producing some nice bass.
  3. The Falls, Whitney Cove, Willow Cove, Salter Creek Cove: Shallow coves with a ton of structure. 
  4. Sheriff’s Point: Focus on main lake points with baitfish and rocky structure.

Top Trout Locations:

  1. Deep Weedlines: Try fishing deep and slow off the weedlines for trout.
  2. Ducey’s Launch: Some success on drop-shot bites from 16′ to 22′ depths.
  3. Bass Lake Resort Area: Explore the resort area for potential trout action, as it’s considered a hidden gem.
  4. Buoy Line By the Dam: Deep water where trout suspend and will chase bait fish during the day.

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But Where Are The Best Places To Fish At Bass Lake?

And in no particular order here is that list of the best fishing spots at Bass Lake.

DISCLAIMER:  The material provided is for general information purposes only. It’s important to understand that any information provided in this article can change at any time. Any maps or graphics featured are not to be used as navigational aids. Fishing Blueprint will not be responsible for any personal injury or property damage from any misuse of the maps or graphics provided.   It’s completely impossible to give you every single spot where you can potentially catch a fish.  But, what this list does do is to give you a helping hand and narrow down to the most productive fishing spots.

The Falls

Look carefully at this spot with low water level…

East of Slide Creek lies the Falls, offering a steady supply of oxygen and current. In the summer, you’ll find emergent vegetation and grass flats surrounding both areas.

This expansive zone has minimal depth variation and is teeming with vegetation. When weeds are growing or dying back, the vast flat becomes a hotspot for fishing, creating deep channels amidst the plants. Bass often lurk in weedy holes, ready to ambush their prey.

The flats’ shallow depths (3 to 5 feet) provide ample hiding spots for fish. At the Falls, North Fork Willow Creek drains into the lake, creating a steep drop-off from a couple of feet to around 10 feet. This deep water serves as a safe haven for bass under threat.

Fishing the outer edges often yields catches, while large holes in the weedbed frequently hold bass. Target these holes with grass flipping jigs, wacky rig Senkos, Mojo rigs, Texas rigs, weedless tubes, or drop shots.

If the grass is submerged, cast topwater lures, buzzbaits, frog lures, chatterbaits, or Whopper Ploppers over the tops. Parallel the weedline edges with crankbaits, lipless crankbaits, spinnerbaits, frog lures, soft plastic swimbaits, umbrella rigs, swim jigs, underspin jigs, or chatterbaits.

Keep an eye out for hard-bottom patches, small rock piles, and high spots on humps, as these areas may harbor fish. Additionally, several small drainage ditches are worth checking for fish.

During winter and spring, trout are often caught cruising the outer weed edges.

Located: northwest end of the lake

Structural features: vegetation, inlet causing current

Best species to target: bass, crappie, trout (spring and winter)

Most effective way to fish this spot: boat, kayak, or float tube

Slide Creek

Look carefully at this spot with low water level…

This shallow cove is lined with flooded brush and small trees, featuring a large creek channel and multiple smaller drainage ditches feeding into it. These intersections can hold fish year-round.

The red arrows mark the ditches, while the green arrows indicate trees and large bushes. The cove attracts baitfish, providing shelter for smaller fish and prime hunting spots for bass.

In spring, look for shallow spawning bass on gravel bars and behind larger trees. Fish holes using grass flipping jigs, wacky rig Senkos, Mojo rigs, Texas rigs, weedless tubes, or drop shots. Cast topwater lures, buzzbaits, frog lures, chatterbaits, or Whopper Ploppers over submerged grass.

Fish weedline edges with crankbaits, lipless crankbaits, spinnerbaits, frog lures, soft plastic swimbaits, umbrella rigs, swim jigs, underspin jigs, or chatterbaits. Check hard bottom patches, small rock piles, and high spots on humps for fish. Also, explore small drainage ditches.

In winter and spring, trout can be found cruising outer weed edges.

Located: northwest end of the lake

Structural features: vegetation, inlet causing current

Best species to target: bass, crappie, trout (spring and winter)

Most effective way to fish this spot: boat, kayak, or float tube

Recreation Point

Look carefully at this spot with low water level…

This is a very unique point that must be scanned when fishing this lake. The point drops into deep water however the sides of the point lead into shallow flats. This type of point will hold fish all year long. 

In the spring the deep section of the point is a great pre-and post-spawn location.  In the summer and early fall the shallow flats are great to fish in the morning and in the evenings. The sharp drop of the point tends to be productive in the middle of the day in summer and in the winter fish this in the middle to late in the afternoon to let the sun warm the rocks.     

Located: north end, west side

Structural features: main lake point, deep 

Best species to target: 

Most effective way to fish this spot: boat, kayak, float tube, shoreline. 

Whitney Cove

Look carefully at this spot with low water level…

This area is a relatively shallow cove that is primarily sandy and clay. What makes this special is this coved is near deep water and has isolated rock piles and boulders. Furthermore, this is lined with docks and holds bass all year long.

The red arrows represent the channels, the green arrow represent vegetation, and the purple arrows are the primary structures at the mouth of the cove.

This cove is known to attract bait fish that feed on plankton which collect here by blowing wind. Then the bass will position themselves on these isolated pieces of structure, eating up the bait fish as they swim by.

In the spring, check for shallow spawning bass over gravel bars. 

Located: northeast end of the lake

Structural features: shallow cove with deep water point near by

Best species to target: bass, crappie, trout (spring and winter)

Most effective way to fish this spot: boat, kayak, or float tube

Sheriff's Tower Point

Look carefully at this spot with low water level…

This main lake point jetties out into the main lake channel and separates a small protected cove to the north, and Willow Cove to the south.

The red arrow represent hard structure such as isolated rock piles that will attract bass and bluegill. 

The point has a hump that has a steep drop into the main lake and there’s a significant saddle between the hump and body of the point. Additionally, there are also several drop offs and ledges which makes it unique.   

This point holds largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass all year long. 

In the spring and early summer this area is good for trolling for trout. 

Largemouth bass can be caught in the rocks as well, but also in the cuts, pockets, and coves where submerged brush and weedbeds are present.

Located: Mid lake, East side

Structural features: Rocky banks, submerged weed beds, rocky banks, flooded brush when lake is a full pool

Best species to target: Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, Spotted bass, Trout, Bluegill, Catfish

Most effective way to fish this spot: Boat, Kayak

Willow Cove

Look carefully at this spot with low water level…

Look carefully at this spot with low water level…

This section features a long rocky cove. The bank is characteristically very steep and made from large chunk rock to boulder-size substrate on one side and the other is filled with docks.

The red arrows represent hard structure, the bright green arrows point to phenomenal spawning patches.  The yellow round circle shows isolated rock piles at the mouth of the cove. 

This cove fishes great all year long.

The back of the cove is filled with vegetation and floating mats which can be absolutely phenomenal during the summer. 

Naturally, crawfish, bluegill, minnows, and shad seek shelter in this area.

Given this embankment’s large area, it’s best to focus your efforts on cuts, points, boulder piles, and on transition areas from larger rock to smaller rock size.

Located: North end of the lake

Structural features: steep artificial rocky bank, docks, vegetation, floating debris mats

Best species to target: Largemouth bass, Smallmouth, Catfish, Crappie

Most effective way to fish this spot: Boat, Kayak

Salter Creek Cove

Look carefully at this spot with low water level…

Look carefully at this spot with low water level…

Look carefully at this spot with low water level…

This short winding cove features a relatively deep creek channel.  The secondary creek channel swings provide anglers with ample opportunity to target bass. Additionally, there are several steep rocky sections in this cove that need to be investigated for fish.  

 Lasty, it may not seem like it, but it’s really important to scan this area for smaller ditches that run into the creek channel. Why? Because ofte channels that have ledges, drop offs, and rocky high spots, ridges associated with the creek channel swings. 

Buoy Line By the Dam

Fishing just outside the buoy line of the dam can catch you an abundance of rainbow trout and even some kokanee salmon.

If the water is low, graph the cove just to the west of the dam in Wishon Cove and you can find bass and crappie suspended over ridges and rocky shelves. 

This section of the lake can get very windy. And even with the best trolling motor the wind can quickly blow you off your spot which will significantly decrease your chances of catching a fish..

That is why we strongly suggest buying a quality drift sock. For those who don’t know, a drift sock is like a parachute for the water. If it’s breezy to windy, you need to slow your drift otherwise your lure will not be in the strike zone long enough to catch a fish.

Located: South end of the lake 

Structural features: Steep banks, drop offs, deep channel, cold water

Best species to target: Trout and Salmon

Most effective way to fish this spot: Boat or kayak Trolling with a downrigger, trolling without a downrigger

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Boat Ramps at Bass Lake

Wishon Boat Launch

Wishon, CA 93669

Lanes: 2

Restrooms: Yes

Showers: no

Gas: no

Tackle, groceries, snacks available: no

Fish Cleaning Station: Yes 

Camping nearby: Yes

Pines Marina Bass Lake Boat Rentals

54432 Rd 432, Bass Lake, CA 93604

(559) 642-3200

thepinesmarina.com

Lanes: Yes

Restrooms: Yes

Showers: no

Gas: Yes

Groceries/snacks available: Yes

Electric: No 

Camping nearby: No

Marinas at Bass Lake

Pines Marina Bass Lake Boat Rentals

54432 Rd 432, Bass Lake, CA 93604

(559) 642-3200

Nearby boat ramp: Yes

Restrooms: Yes

Showers: no

Gas: Yes

Groceries/snacks available: Yes

Electric: No 

Camping nearby: No

Bass Lake Boat Rentals and Watersports

54406 Rd 432, Bass Lake, CA 93604

(559) 642-3200

Nearby boat ramp: Yes

Restrooms: Yes

Showers: no

Gas: Yes

Groceries/snacks available: Yes

Electric: No 

Camping nearby: No

Miller’s Landing Resort

Miller’s Landing Resort

37976 Road 222 Wishon, Bass Lake, CA 93669

(559) 642-3633

Nearby boat ramp: Yes

Restrooms: Yes

Showers: no

Gas: Yes

Groceries/snacks available: Yes

Electric: No 

Camping nearby: No

Tackle Shops Near Bass Lake

Pines Market

Pines Market, 54432 Rd 432, Bass Lake, CA 93604

(559) 642-3141

Old Corral Grocery & Tackle

41872 Rd 222, Oakhurst, CA 93644

(559) 683-7414

Yosemite River Fly Shop

40827 CA-41, Oakhurst, CA 93644

(559) 683-7664

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Camping Near Bass Lake

Spring Cove Campground

  • Sites – 61 total. 
    • RV – sites available. Good for small RV’s or trailers only
    • Standard tent sites – available
  • Dump station available: Yes
  • Showers available: no
  • Fish cleaning station available: no
  • Low season: October – March
  • High season: April – September 
  • Pets welcome: Yes
  • Campground map – click here
  • Reservations – click here

Wishon Point Campground

  • Sites – 46 total. 
    • RV – available
    • 8 sites are tent only
  • Dump station available: Yes
  • Showers available: no
  • Fish cleaning station available: no
  • Low season: October – March
  • High season: April – September 
  • Pets welcome: Yes
  • Campground map – click here
  • Reservations – click here

Cedar Bluff Campground

  • Sites – 22 group sites only.  
    • Campsites designed for small groups of 10-24 people
    • RV’s welcome
    • Standard tent sites – available. 
  • Dump station available: Yes
  • Showers available: no
  • Fish cleaning station available: no
  • Low season: October – March
  • High season: April – September 
  • Pets welcome: Yes, two per site maximum
  • Campground map – click here
  • Reservations – click here

Lupine Campground 

  • Sites – 4 group sites only.
    • Campsites designed for small groups of 25-50 people
    • RVs welcome
    • Standard tent sites available
  • Dump station available: Yes
  • Showers available: no
  • Fish cleaning station available: no
  • Low season: October – March
  • High season: April – September 
  • Pets welcome: Yes
  • Campground map – click here
  • Reservations – click here

Crane Valley Group Campground

  • Sites – 7 group sites only.  
    • Campsites designed for small groups of 10-24 people
    • RVs welcome
    • Standard tent sites available
  • Dump station available: Yes
  • Showers available: no
  • Fish cleaning station available: no
  • Low season: October – March
  • High season: April – September 
  • Pets welcome: Yes
  • Campground map – click here
  • Reservations – click here

Forks Campground

  • Sites – 27 total. 
    • RVs welcome
    • Standard tent sites available
  • Dump station available: Yes
  • Showers available: no
  • Fish cleaning station available: no
  • Low season: October – March
  • High season: April – September 
  • Pets welcome: Yes
  • Campground map – click here
  • Reservations – click here

Recreation Point Group Campground

  • Sites – 4 total. 
    • Tents only. No RVs allowed.
    • Group sizes 25-50. 
  • Dump station available: Yes
  • Showers available: no
  • Fish cleaning station available: no
  • Low season: October – March
  • High season: April – September 
  • Pets welcome: Yes
  • Campground map – click here
  • Reservations – click here

In Summary...

As you now can see Bass Lake fishing can be tough at times, but it’s not impossible and with the help of the Bass Lake Fishing Report… It definitely helps you get started on the right foot quickly and easily, so you can avoid wasting hours wondering where and how to get started.

Did You Get All This?

As fellow fisherman and content creator I thrive on helping others… I feel like I can do the most good by helping others… And frankly… I would feel like I did something wrong if you didn’t walk away feeling a little better about this lake.

I truly want to over deliver for you…

So Let Me Ask You Another Question… 

After reading this helpful report:

  • Can you see how this could change the way you would fish this lake?… To make it easier, faster… and… with less headache, less frustration?
  • If nothing else, do you now have a better sense of where you can get started, even if you have have been here?
  • Do you feel that you have a good grasp of what species to expect in this lake?
  • Do you have a good understanding what baits are needed to catch each of the different species of fish?
  • Earlier we came up with some helpful spots to catch more fish, can you see yourself considering any one of those spots? Which ones are you the most excited about implementing when you get to the lake?
  • Is it fair to say that using these spots would give you a significant advantage over someone else who’s fishing this lake? 

I Need To Ask A Favor From You And It’s Not Going To Cost You A Single Dime… 

If you have gotten anything out of this free report; whether its knowing where to get started, what kinds of fish are in this lake, what baits to use, where to launch your boat, where to buy a frosty beverage, where to camp, and other things to do when you’re at this lake…

Then I need you to do something that is going to help you your fellow angler…

And that is share this report.  Please share it to as many people as you can.  It’s free to you and it really helps me out as a creator. 

Lastly… thank you for spending your time reading through this report and I hope you have a luck on the water.  

THIS IS WHERE YOU CAN HELP ME THE MOST:  There’s a lot of information about this subject you have found helpful, and I’m sure you’ll be able to put some of the knowledge bombs to use.  But sharing this report helps drive traffic which in turn helps me at absolutely no cost to you.  I love creating reports like this for you, and you like reading these types of reports please share this with your friends, family, and fellow anglers.   

Click on your favorite social media buttons to share this page now!

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