Beardsley Lake is primitive, but fishing is usually exquisite


Some people may possibly get in touch with Beardsley Reservoir their personal heaven due to the occasionally terrific trout fishing. Some may swear it truly is the other place for the reason that of limited, primitive facilities, a standard low water level and afternoon winds. Get a lot more information about  beardsley lake



Yet of your a huge selection of lakes within the Sierra Nevada, it can be Beardsley that frequently supplies some of the ideal trout fishing in California after initial becoming opened, in conjunction with numerous side trips and nearby cabin-style lodging.



Beardsley is located east of Sonora, up near Strawberry along Highway 108. This reservoir is set in a deep canyon around the Middle Fork Stanislaus River, some 2,000 feet below the ridge. So even though the actual elevation in the lake is 3,400 feet, exactly where spring is taking hold, Beardsley has the really feel of a lake set at significantly larger elevations.



This could give rise to a fish-catching phenomenon that many might dream about. I've had lots of April days at Beardsley exactly where the trout appear to shout, "Catch me!" -- including brown trout in the 15- to 22-inch class. Immediately after the lake has been closed for five months, the trout often seem to forget in regards to the wiles of anglers.



Upon arrival, the initial issue you can notice is the fact that the lake is now 55 % full, which could possibly seem really low. Really, it's best. The lake usually fishes ideal when it truly is low, not full, since it is easier to discover the submerged ledges and drop-offs where the fish school. With the snowpack at Sonora Pass now melting, Beardsley is projected to rise more than the subsequent two months and present a a lot more classic setting.



The facilities are restricted, the services nonexistent. There is a boat ramp, parking area as well as a primitive Forest Service campground (nevertheless closed earlier this week) that consists of areas to park self-contained RVs or pick- up trucks with camper shells, or pitch a tent.



An additional challenge may be the late-afternoon wind, using a westerly breeze that whistles up the canyon in spring. Some loathe it, nevertheless it can unlock the bank vault: With a small boat, if you let the wind push you over the submerged ledges, your speed will match that of food drifting by. We've tested this with dozens of offerings: The most beneficial method should be to thread a night-crawler on your hook and line so it lies completely straight, after which trail it 17 inches behind a set of hammered brass/silver Cousin' Carl Half-Fast flashers.



Several side adventures can furnish additional highlights. When Sonora Pass is cleared of snow, which ordinarily occurs in early Might, a must-do may be the trip up Highway 108 to the Donnells Vista. Since Donnells Reservoir is set within a deep gorge and usually is kept very low in the spring (now only 18 % complete), the view in to the gorge will be eye-popping beautiful. This is a baby Yosemite Valley with towering granite walls, a miniature El Capitan, and quite a few waterfalls.



There is also access towards the Middle Fork Stanislaus downstream of Beardsley Dam, with an unsigned river trail readily available. Fly-fishing, catch-and-release, for compact natives is typically superior; the trout season for mountain streams opens April 24.



The resort at tiny Pinecrest Lake at Strawberry provides extra nearby options for boating, fishing and lodging, using the marina opening April 23.


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