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California · Fishing
Lakeshore sits at the edge of the Sierra Nevada in Fresno County, tucked into the mountains above Huntington Lake, and the fishing around it reflects that high-country character.
4 spotsUpdated dailyFree to access
View on mapFishing · 4 spots
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Lakeshore sits at the edge of the Sierra Nevada in Fresno County, tucked into the mountains above Huntington Lake, and the fishing around it reflects that high-country character. The area offers a mix of lake and river fishing across four spots: College and Kinnikinnick for lake fishing, and Catavee and Deer Creek for moving water. That variety means you can work a shoreline in the morning and wade a creek by afternoon without driving far. Deer Creek and Catavee give you the kind of river fishing that rewards patience and a careful approach — clear mountain water where presentation matters. The lakes tend to be more forgiving for anglers who want to set up and wait. Because Lakeshore sits at elevation, the season is compressed compared to lower-foothill waters — ice-out timing and snowpack both affect when fishing gets productive, and conditions can shift quickly into fall. If you're planning a trip, aim for late June through September as the core window, though early-season fishing right after ice-out can be surprisingly good if you're willing to layer up.
You have two lake fishing options — College and Kinnikinnick — and two river fishing spots, Catavee and Deer Creek. The lake spots suit anglers who prefer fishing from shore or a small watercraft, while the river spots require wading or working the banks of moving water.
Late June through September is the most reliable window at this elevation. Snow can linger into early summer and access roads may not fully open until June, so check current conditions before planning an early-season trip. Fall fishing can be productive before the first hard freezes, but expect shorter days and colder mornings.
Deer Creek
~0 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CA.
Kinnikinnick
~0 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CA.
Rock Creek (Sierra National Forest, CA)
~18 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CA.
Catavee
~0 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CA.
College
~1 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CA.
Wishon Bass Lake
~34 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CA.
Upper Billy Creek Cg
~5 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CA.
Rancheria
~1 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CA.
Spring Cove
~35 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CA.
Lower Billy Creek
~5 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CA.
Mammoth Pool
~18 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CA.
Cedar Bluff
~36 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CA.
Early morning is generally the most productive window, especially on the lake spots like College and Kinnikinnick, before afternoon winds pick up on the water. On Catavee and Deer Creek, evening can also fish well as temperatures drop and insects become active on the surface.
Wading gear is worth bringing for both river spots — felt-soled or rubber-studded wading boots give you better footing on wet Sierra granite. Light spinning tackle or a fly rod both work on mountain streams like these. Pack layers regardless of the forecast; high-elevation weather changes fast.
Yes, a valid California sport fishing license is required for anyone 16 or older fishing any of these waters. Regulations including bag limits and gear restrictions are set by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and rules can vary by specific water body, so check the current CDFW regulations for the Fresno County mountain zone before you go.
