With its winding lake arms and 160 miles of shoreline, Don Pedro Reservoir boasts nearly 13,000 surface acres at full capacity. The lake is known for its ever-changing dominant species, with bass, trout, and salmon taking turns each year as the main attraction. But one thing that remains constant is the abundance of fish in the lake.

One of the lake's most sought-after catches at Don Pedro is the rainbow trout, which can grow to a formidable five pounds. The best trolling spots are found between Rodgers Creek and Jenkins Hill, as well as in Middle Bay and around the Highway 49 bridge.

Bass fishing is also popular at Don Pedro, with the lake's natural production of largemouth bass augmented by a few fingerling largemouth bass plants. The fish grow quickly due to the abundance of forage in the lake, and anglers always have the chance to hook a double digit giant. Try fishing well up the lake arms and casting soft baits or minnow imitators.

King salmon weighing between 4-6 pounds can be caught by trolling, and the lake also boasts a healthy population of kokanee, which can rival those found in other renowned California fishing spots such as New Melones and Indian Valley.

Don Pedro is not only a fish haven but also a prime destination for boaters, campers or passerby visitors on their way up to Yosemite.