Location
and Overview The
eastern slope of California's Sierra Nevada Mountains is justly
famous for its outstanding trout fishing, and in this respect
Lake Sabrina definitely does not disappoint. Located about
20 miles from Bishop, CA at an elevation of about 9100 feet
(check out the map), Lake Sabrina
is home to boatloads of trophy-size rainbows and is conveniently
close to a number of area campgrounds and lodges. Hotel accomodations
and other amenities are available in the town of Bishop itself.
Fishin'
Lake Sabrina
Sabrina's
appeal to anglers can be summed up in just one word: TROUT!
And they're here in all sizes, ranging from pan-size to five
pounders, plus. The California Department of Fish and Game
plants hatchery fish in the lake on a regular basis during
the fishing season, which runs from the last Saturday in April
through November 15. For more info on DFG's stocking schedule,
click
here. Alpers trout are also planted in the area by
Adopt-A-Creek
throughout the season. In addition to the ubiquitous rainbows,
a number of big browns and the occasional brook trout may
also put in an appearance.
Anglers
report good results using a variety of natural baits such
as worms and salmon eggs, as well as Power Bait. Spoons such as Kastmasters and Thomas Buoyants, spinners (including Rooster Tails and Mepps Aglias),
and jigs are also productive. Many fishermen like to rent
a boat (or launch their own), and troll for the big ones out
in the middle of the lake or near the intake at the south
end. Shore fishermen also do well near the intake area, as
well as by the dam at the north end.
Lake
Sabrina Boat Landing, located at the north end of the
lake near the dam, features boat rentals, a launch ramp, a
cafe, and a small tackle shop which sells bait, tackle, and
snacks. The staff there will be happy to give you tips on
what baits or lures are working best. For more information,
including boat rental rates and the latest fishing report,
click
here.
If
you find yourself looking for a change of pace, Lake Sabrina
is also conveniently close to South
Lake and all the good fishin' opportunities along the
South and Middle Forks of Bishop
Creek.
Weather
The weather in the eastern Sierras can change rapidly, so
no matter what the forecast says it never hurts to be prepared
for the possibility
of rain. Summertime thunderstorms are not uncommon, although
they seldom last long. Depending on conditions during the
preceding winter, some snow may still be present at higher
elevations well into the summer fishing season. Daytime highs
during summer can range from the high 60's into the 80’s
near the lake, and up to 100 degrees plus in the town of Bishop.
Low temperatures at night can range anywhere from freezing
or below, up into the mid-40’s. Make sure you have plenty
of warm clothing and rain gear just in case.
Click
here
to see current weather conditions and forecasts for the town
of Bishop.
Lodging
and Camping
Lodging is available at several motels in the town of Bishop,
and three lodges near Lake Sabrina also offer small housekeeping
cabins for rent. Closest to the lake is Cardinal
Village Resort, just off highway 168, which has a restaurant
(open for breakfast and lunch only) and a store as well as
rental cabins. Bishop
Creek Lodge is located on South Lake Road, and in addition
to rental cabins features a small general store where fishing
tackle, bait, and a limited selection of camping gear and
food can be purchased. They also have a restaurant and pay-for-use
public showers. Parcher’s
Resort, which boasts a number of rental cabins, a store,
and a café, is located farther up South Lake Road just
before you get to South Lake. Habegger’s Resort, an
RV park with a small general store, is located across the
road from Bishop Creek Lodge.
Several
U.S. Forest Service campgrounds located throughout the area
offer a less expensive alternative for those who enjoy sleeping
in a tent or RV. The U.S.
Forest Service website has information on campground locations,
fees, and dates of operation. Campsite reservations can be
made through ReserveAmerica.com.
Licensing
and Regulations
All anglers must have a valid California fishing license in
their possession while fishing, and it must be visibly displayed
above the waist. Clear plastic holders for this purpose are
available at any bait or tackle shop. Only one pole per fisherman
may be used. The trout season is open from the last Saturday
in April through November 15 every year, with a bag limit
of 5 fish per day and a total of 10 in possession.
The
California Department of Fish and Game has all the current
fishing regulations
on their website.
