Located in the Sierra National Forest, Shaver Lake is surrounded by dense pines and offers scenic mountain views with plenty of wildlife. It was originally formed by the damming of Stevenson Creek as part of the Southern California Edison Big Creek Hydroelectric Project.

18-inch Kokanee salmon are common here and are most active in the spring and fall when water is cooler. In higher-water years, Kokanee will spawn in the feeder creeks. Regardless of spawning events, they are heavily stocked each year to ensure a strong population.

Rainbow trout are also stocked in high numbers, including trophy-sized fish that reach up to 15 pounds. Many 3-5 pound rainbows reside near creek inlets, while the largest fish hang deeper and chase Kokanee. Rainbows will move throughout the lake seeking cool water.

Brown trout are stocked yearly as the CDFW aims to re-establish its once thriving population. Although currently, larger browns are few and far between, and most of the smaller browns end up becoming food for other species.

The smallmouth bass population is robust, but a dwindling crawdad population has stunted their growth substantially. The average catch is typically under a pound. Higher water levels early in the season provide more submerged structure and spark an increase in activity.

Brown bullhead catfish can be active in the late spring in shallower areas. Use caution when handling, as they are equipped with barbs on their pectoral fins.

Shaver Lake is just an hour’s drive from Fresno and has many resorts, lodges, hotels, and campgrounds. Two marinas offer public boat launches and much of the shoreline can be accessed by the public.