Kern County

The CDFW stocks in the Upper Kern have been consistent, but the warmer weather continues to melt snow in the mountains, keeping the flow levels high. This hasn't been a problem for spin-casters throwing salmon eggs, spinners, or jigs near main access areas. However, fly anglers seem to be holding out for lower flows. The south fork is warming up, with bass and catfish becoming more active. Trout are still being caught from this section as well.

Trout fishing is slowing a bit with no new stockings since mid-March, but trollers are still catching a few rainbows. Some are targeting the surface with diving Rapalas, while others are running deeper water with Needlefish.

The crappie bite has been outstanding in both shallow and deep sections across the lake. Crappie jigs, grubs, and live worms have been best, especially near Paradise Cove.

The bass bite is steadily improving with stabilizing weather and warming water. Reaction baits have been triggering strikes more effectively than finesse baits, although dropshotting has been working if the reaction bite quits.

Isabella is benefiting from the consistent warmer weather with an outstanding crappie bite, especially on the south side. Small swimbaits and jigs have been pulling in numbers and size.

Bass action has become more unpredictable, although a few big ones were recently caught weighing over 7 pounds. Lure choice is inconsistent... sometimes reaction baits are best, sometimes finesse. Best to experiment.

The trout bite has pulled back a bit without recent stockings, although folks are still catching a few trolling and from shore.

The last trout stock was before the derby, the week of March 17th. But due to the large number of fish stocked, anglers are still getting plenty of action. Trollers are using spoons, while casters are getting bit towards the surface. Bass fishing is still slow, as water temperatures remain cool. The forecasted warmer weeks should spark more activity. Crappie fishing was reported as "good" especially near submerged structure.

Lower Kern is seeing a fair trout bite, but it's pretty hit-and-miss. Warm water species like catfish and bass are starting to bite as the temperature increases. Spots in and around Kernville are producing solid trout action, primarily for stocker rainbows. Spinners, worms, and salmon eggs are all working for spin anglers. Fly anglers have been finding success with dry-dropper setups.