Pine Flat Lake is a stunning reservoir set in the serene foothills of Yosemite. It’s positioned in a beautiful natural setting of hills, trees, and native plant species - all while located just outside Fresno.

Pine Flat Lake offers perhaps the best spotted bass fishing in the world. But it's not just the large numbers - the size of the “spots” are truly something to behold. Five-pound spots are fairly common, with some even surpassing 10 pounds. Anglers will also find a solid largemouth bite during the warmer weather.

Pine Flat is filled with fingerling trout and salmon, shad, and crayfish, all making perfect forage prey for growing bass. With so many food options, a variety of presentations mimicking baitfish can all work. Try ripping crankbaits to cover more water, or plastic worms when you identify an ideal cove or inlet.

Rainbow trout, Kokanee salmon, and a variety of panfish can also be caught throughout the year. The Kokanee make excellent table fare while the rainbows are noted as being strictly catch-and-release.

Local authorities use the waters from Pine Flat for irrigation frequently. So the water level can swing drastically in summer and early fall. Keep an eye out for fishing conditions before heading onto the water.