Shaver Lake Fishing Tips & Tackle Guide

YouTube video
A Central California fisherman caught a record setting brown trout at Shaver Lake

Fishing License: Required for persons 16 years and older.

Shaver Lake in California is a great spot for a fun day of fishing in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It’s peaceful, scenic, and packed with fish! The lake is surrounded by tall pine trees and mountain views, which makes every trip feel like a little vacation. Whether you’re fishing from shore, a kayak, or a boat, you’ve got a good chance of hooking rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, or even smallmouth bass. The lake is well-stocked and open to fishing most of the year. You’ll find helpful marinas, boat ramps, and even places to rent gear or grab a snack. It’s a family-friendly destination, and there’s plenty to do even if the fish aren’t biting. Shaver Lake is one of those spots you’ll want to come back to again and again.

Lake Details

Shaver Lake Fishing Tips & Tackle Guide Highlights 🎣 🐟 :

  • Fishing at Shaver Lake is exciting and rewarding. It’s popular for trout and kokanee salmon fishing, with both natural and stocked fish in the lake. The cool mountain water keeps fish active and biting, especially in spring and fall.
  • Fish Species Types:
    Rainbow Trout
    – Found near the surface in spring and deeper in summer; best caught using PowerBait or nightcrawlers.
    Brown Trout – Often found in deeper areas or near drop-offs; try trolling with spoons.
    Kokanee Salmon – Found deeper in summer; use pink hoochies or dodgers for best results.
    Smallmouth Bass – Active near rocky shorelines; use soft plastics or jigs.
    Bluegill – Great for beginners; use worms or small lures.
    Catfish – Best caught at night with chicken liver or stink bait.
  • Fishing Techniques, Methods & Tips:
    Trolling is effective for kokanee and trout.
    Use bait like PowerBait, salmon eggs, or worms for shore fishing.
    Fly fishing works in the creeks feeding the lake.
    Cast near rocky points and drop-offs for bass.
    Early morning and late evening are best fishing times.
  • Fishing Conditions:
    Fishing is best in spring and early summer. In warmer months, fish move deeper. Water is cold and clear year-round. Winter ice may restrict fishing.
  • Boating Regulations:
    Boats are allowed, including powerboats, kayaks, and canoes. No speed restrictions, but safety rules apply. Wear life vests and watch for swimmers. No gasoline motor rentals at some marinas, so plan ahead.
  • For the most current information on fishing conditions, regulations, and amenities, it’s advisable to consult the California Department of Fish & Wildlife‘s official resources or contact local authorities directly.

Lake Information

  • Name
  • Shaver Lake
  • Location: Fresno County, California
  • Elevation: 5,500 feet
  • Shoreline: 15 miles
  • Lake Size: 2,177 acres
  • Avg Depth: 35 feet
  • Max Depth: 90 feet
  • Avg Water Temp:
    45°F to 70°F
  • GPS Coordinates:
    37.1142° N, 119.3175° W
  • Marinas: Shaver Lake Marina, Sierra Marina
  • Boat Ramp Locations: Located at Shaver Lake Marina & Dorabelle Campground
  • Hours and Days Open: Open year-round, best fishing March–November
  • Websites:
  • Shaver-lake.com
  • Fs.usda.gov
  • Tripadvisor.com
  • Wildlife.ca.gov/Fishing

Lake Amenities

  • 🎣 Fishing Dock – Easy-access dock near the marina
  • 🚤 Boat Rentals – Rent pontoons, fishing boats, or kayaks
  • 🧊 Bait & Tackle Shop – Get live bait, lures, and gear
  • 🚿 Fish Cleaning Station – Convenient spot to clean your catch
  • 🧺 Picnic Areas – Shaded tables and grills for lunch
  • 🏕️ Campgrounds – Lakeside camping at Dorabelle & Camp Edison
  • 🛶 Canoe/Kayak Launch – Smooth entry spots for paddlers
  • 🚻 Restrooms – Located near marina and picnic spots
  • 🍔 Snack Shack – Grab food and drinks lakeside
  • 🌲 Hiking Trails – Scenic walks along the shore
  • 🅿️ Parking – Ample lots near boat ramps and trails
  • 🐾 Pet-Friendly Areas – Dogs welcome on leash

Nearby Lakes

Best Fishing Bait & Lures

California Freshwater Fishing Regulations

Directions

Getting to Shaver Lake is part of the fun!

Driving to Shaver Lake in California is part of the adventure! From Fresno, just hop on Highway 168 and head northeast for about 50 miles. It’s a beautiful, winding drive up into the Sierra National Forest, filled with tall trees and mountain views. The road climbs in elevation, so take your time and enjoy the scenery. You’ll pass through the little town of Prather, where you can grab snacks or gas. Continue through Tollhouse and climb up past Cressman’s General Store. Once you reach the Shaver Lake sign, you’re just minutes away from fishing paradise! There’s plenty of signage along the way, and the roads are paved and well-maintained. Whether you’re towing a boat or packing a cooler and rods, the journey is part of the fun. Don’t forget to stop and take in the views—you’re heading to one of the prettiest lakes in California!

FAQs

Yes, anyone 16 or older needs a valid California fishing license.

Spring and early summer are best for trout and kokanee. Fall can also be great!

Absolutely! Many good spots are accessible by foot, especially near the campgrounds and marinas.

Yes! Shaver Lake Marina and Sierra Marina rent fishing boats, pontoons, and more.

Yes! Kokanee fishing is popular—try trolling in deeper waters during the summer.

Last Thoughts

Fishing at Shaver Lake in California is a fun, relaxing, and rewarding experience for anglers of all ages. With its clear water, mountain air, and stocked fish, this lake is perfect for both serious fishermen and beginners. You can fish from a boat or the shoreline, camp nearby, or just spend the day enjoying nature. Shaver Lake offers excellent fishing for trout, kokanee, and bass, plus great amenities like boat rentals, fishing docks, and picnic areas. It’s easy to get to, beautiful all year, and packed with fish waiting to bite. So grab your tackle box, pack your cooler, and make your way up to Shaver Lake. It’s one of California’s best mountain lakes for fishing fun. 🎣🏞️