The Kings River has three forks, beginning in Kings Canyon National Park. The forks meet and flow through Sequoia and Sierra National Forests. The river is marked by steep canyons, waterfalls, and riffles. It is considered one of the best wild trout fisheries in the Western Sierra.

The higher drainage in the forks contains rainbow, brown and brook trout in the 6-10” range. While the scenery is beautiful here, access can be difficult.

The Upper Kings River runs from the confluence of the South and Middle Forks to Pine Flat Reservoir. It is designated Wild & Scenic under special regulations. Wild brown and rainbow trout reach over 20 inches, living in riffles, tailouts, and deeper holes. No hatchery fish exist in this stretch. Trout will start to become active in early spring, feeding on mayflies, stoneflies, and salmonflies. Flows can increase dramatically with spring runoff and at times the river is not fishable until June. Trout are more active in the summer and fall, feeding on smaller mayflies and caddis. In the heat of the summer, ambient temperatures can reach over 100 degrees, making the fish most active in the early morning and late evening hours. During the winter, water temperatures typically get very cold, making the fish lethargic.

The Lower Kings River below the Pine Flat Reservoir has suffered in trout populations over the years due to droughts and irrigation. There have been recent efforts to replenish the fishery with a decent number of trout plants each year.

The river can be reached via Highway 180 or Trimmer Springs Road out of Piedra. It is too small for boating and thus only accessed by walking and wading. Campgrounds are present along the river, whereas lodging is only found closer to Fresno.