Eastman Lake Fishing Overview

Eastman Lake is a quiet, lesser-known fishing spot tucked into the foothills of Madera County, and it’s tailor-made for serious bass anglers. The lake itself is about 1,800 acres with a mix of rocky structure, drop-offs, tule edges, and clear water (though can get stained in winter). Big double-digit bass aren't uncommon here, especially in spring and fall. Trout are stocked sporadically by the CDFW in winter, and you’ll find catfish, crappie, and bluegill too, but bass is the main game. Eastman offers decent shoreline access and a launch ramp.

Species:

Rainbow Trout, Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish, Black Crappie, Bluegill

Stocked Date:

Trout stocked 2 months ago - View Schedule

Boating / Access:

Most boating allowed. See regulations.

Geography:

Surface Area: 1,780 acres

Surface Elevation: 450 ft

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Eastman Lake

Dec 27, 2024

Madera County

Public

Good Bass bite

Trout, Bass

53°F

Eastman has quietly been serving up a very good winter bass bite over the last few weeks. The lake was stocked with trout once in November and again in mid-December, and these stocks have really fired up the bigger bass. Now bass are still in winter mode, so infrequent bites are to be expected. But anglers are reporting 2-4 quality fish a day with...

Now bass are still in winter mode, so infrequent bites are to be expected. But anglers are reporting 2-4 quality fish a day with 5-7 pounders not uncommon.

For those targeting giants only, slow-rolling a trout imitation swimbait or glide bait will get bigger bites. But most of the action is coming on natural-colored Roboworms fished in 15-20 feet of water, either drop-shot or T-rigged. Slow, subtle presentations are working best.

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