The Eastern Sierra is one of the premier trout fishing destinations in North America. From alpine lakes tucked beneath granite peaks to roadside streams and desert reservoirs, anglers can find everything from easy family fishing holes to remote backcountry waters. Whether you’re carrying a fly rod, spinning rod, or simply hoping to catch your first trout, here’s where to fish throughout the Eastern Sierra.
Lone Pine
Diaz Lake
A family-friendly fishery just south of town with easy shoreline access and regular stocking.
Lone Pine Creek
Flowing from Whitney Portal, this small mountain stream offers a classic Sierra fishing experience.
Whitney Portal
Several sections of Lone Pine Creek near Whitney Portal provide opportunities to fish beneath the granite walls of the Sierra crest.
Cottonwood Lakes
Among California’s highest fisheries, these alpine lakes reward hikers with spectacular scenery and trout-filled waters.
Cottonwood Creek
A scenic mountain stream accessible from Horseshoe Meadows.
Independence
Independence Creek
A small but scenic stream flowing through the foothills west of town.
Oak Creek
A popular roadside fishery north of Independence known for easy access and regular stocking.
Owens River
Several sections near Independence provide opportunities for trout fishing throughout the season.
Big Pine
Big Pine Creek
A mountain stream flowing from the Palisades and Big Pine Lakes basin.
Baker Creek
A smaller creek with beautiful scenery and opportunities for trout fishing.
Tinemaha Reservoir
A large reservoir popular with anglers and birdwatchers alike.
Glacier Lodge Area
Numerous lakes and streams above Glacier Lodge provide access to high-country fishing.
Bishop
Pleasant Valley Reservoir
One of the most productive fisheries in the Owens Valley.
Owens River
A favorite among fly anglers and conventional anglers alike.
Intake II
A local favorite that consistently produces trout.
South Lake
Known for boat fishing, shoreline access, and access to backcountry lakes.
Lake Sabrina
One of the most popular fishing destinations in Bishop Creek Canyon.
North Lake
A quieter alternative with beautiful alpine scenery.
Bishop Creek
Numerous access points offer roadside and stream fishing opportunities.
Mammoth Lakes
Crowley Lake
One of the most famous trout fisheries in the West.
Convict Lake
A stunning alpine lake known for both scenery and fishing.
Lake Mary
The largest lake in the Mammoth Lakes Basin.
Lake George
Clear water, dramatic views, and consistent trout fishing.
Twin Lakes
An accessible family-friendly fishery close to town.
Hot Creek
A world-renowned catch-and-release fishery.
Mammoth Creek
A productive stream running through town and the Lakes Basin.
June Lake
June Lake
A favorite for shore anglers and boaters alike.
Gull Lake
Small, accessible, and often productive.
Silver Lake
Known for excellent shoreline access and mountain scenery.
Grant Lake
The largest lake on the loop and a popular boating destination.
Rush Creek
Connects the June Lake Loop lakes and offers excellent stream fishing.
Lee Vining
Ellery Lake
Easy roadside access with dramatic mountain views.
Tioga Lake
A beautiful alpine fishery near Tioga Pass.
Saddlebag Lake
A high-country destination with excellent fishing and access to numerous backcountry lakes.
Lee Vining Creek
A scenic mountain stream flowing through the canyon.
Bridgeport
Twin Lakes
One of the region’s premier trout fisheries.
Virginia Lakes
A collection of alpine lakes known for easy access and productive fishing.
East Walker River
A legendary trophy trout fishery.
Bridgeport Reservoir
Known for large trout and excellent spring fishing.
Green Creek
A productive mountain stream west of town.
Robinson Creek
Popular with anglers exploring the Twin Lakes area.
Walker
West Walker River
One of the most scenic river fisheries in the Eastern Sierra.
Topaz Lake
A large reservoir straddling the California-Nevada border.
Walker River Canyon
Numerous access points provide opportunities to fish the river.
Leavitt Meadows
A beautiful high-country section of the West Walker River known for both scenery and fishing.
Sonora Pass Area
Several creeks and alpine lakes near Sonora Pass offer excellent summer fishing opportunities.
AWE Tip: The Eastern Sierra contains hundreds of additional alpine lakes that require a hike to reach. Many of the region’s best fishing experiences happen away from the road, where a little extra effort often means fewer crowds and eager trout.
