California · Fishing
Fishing in Shaver Lake, California
Shaver Lake sits at 5,370 feet in the Sierra Nevada foothills of Fresno County, and the fishing options radiating out from town range from drive-up lakeside spots to backcountry lakes that take a full day to reach on foot.
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View on mapFishing · 24 spots
Shaver Lake sits at 5,370 feet in the Sierra Nevada foothills of Fresno County, and the fishing options radiating out from town range from drive-up lakeside spots to backcountry lakes that take a full day to reach on foot. Shaver Lake itself draws a lot of the attention, but the surrounding area holds a dense network of alpine lakes and moving water worth exploring. Dinkey Creek and Mono Creek offer river fishing for anglers who prefer current over still water, while dozens of high-country lakes — including Marshall Lake, Snow Lakes, Cliff Lake, Medley Lake, Fourth Recess Lake, and Rock Creek Lake — hold fish in settings that see far less pressure than the main reservoir. McGuire Lakes, Martha Lake, and Filly Lake round out a list of backcountry options that rewards anglers willing to put in the miles. Most of the high-elevation lakes are accessible only after snowmelt clears the trails, which typically means late June through early July depending on the year. The Jackass Meadow area along the upper drainage gives river anglers a different experience than the lake circuit. With 24 active fishing locations in and around Shaver Lake, there is enough variety here to keep a serious angler busy across multiple trips without repeating the same water twice.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time of year to fish around Shaver Lake?
Shaver Lake itself fishes well from late spring through fall, with the opener in late April drawing good crowds. The backcountry lakes like Snow Lakes, Cliff Lake, and Fourth Recess Lake are typically locked under snow until late June or early July, so plan high-country trips for July through September. Early mornings and evenings are consistently the most productive times on the lake, especially in summer when midday surface temperatures push fish deeper.
Do I need a California fishing license to fish here?
Yes. Anyone 16 or older needs a valid California sport fishing license to fish any of the waters in this area, including Shaver Lake, Dinkey Creek, Mono Creek, and all the backcountry lakes. You can purchase a license online through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or at local sporting goods stores near Shaver Lake. Check current regulations for any specific size or bag limits before you go, as they can vary by water body.
What gear should I bring for the backcountry lakes like Marshall Lake or Fourth Recess Lake?
A lightweight pack rod that breaks down to 4-5 sections is practical for hiking into lakes like Marshall Lake, Medley Lake, or Fourth Recess Lake. Small spinners, inline lures, and PowerBait work well in most of these alpine lakes. If you fly fish, a 4- or 5-weight setup handles the conditions fine. Bring enough layers — temperatures at elevation drop fast after sunset even in August.
How do I access Dinkey Creek and Jackass Meadow for river fishing?
Dinkey Creek Road heads northeast out of the Shaver Lake area and provides access to multiple stretches of Dinkey Creek. Jackass Meadow is further up the drainage and sits at higher elevation, so road access depends on seasonal snow clearing — typically passable by late spring or early summer. Both spots offer classic Sierra freestone stream fishing, and the meadow sections tend to hold fish in the undercut banks and slower pools.
Is fishing around Shaver Lake suitable for beginners or families with kids?
Yes, several spots work well for beginners and families. Dorabelle Campground has direct lake access and is one of the more approachable fishing spots in the area, making it a good starting point for kids or anglers new to the sport. The main Shaver Lake shoreline also offers accessible bank fishing without requiring a boat. Save the longer hikes to places like Lobe Lakes or Tubbe Paa Lake for when the group is ready for more of a commitment.
