Shaver Lake, nestled within California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, is a reservoir formed as part of a hydroelectric project. It is a popular destination for anglers, renowned for its diverse and productive fishing experiences.
Popular Game Fish of Shaver Lake
Shaver Lake is well-regarded for its game fish, which primarily include several trout species, Kokanee Salmon, and Smallmouth Bass. Rainbow Trout are a common catch, regularly stocked by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), with some reaching sizes up to 15 pounds. These trout often inhabit cooler, deeper waters but can be found near creek inlets, providing opportunities for both boat and shore anglers. Brown Trout are also stocked annually, though larger specimens can be more elusive, with some trophy fish exceeding 16 pounds having been reported.
Kokanee Salmon, a landlocked form of sockeye salmon, thrive in Shaver Lake and are a sought-after species, commonly growing up to 18 inches. The CDFW stocks Kokanee fingerlings annually. These schooling fish are most active during the cooler spring and fall months, typically found in deeper water columns. Smallmouth Bass represent another game fish, recognized by their mottled brown to olive-green coloration. While the population is robust, their growth can be stunted due to a reduced crawfish food source, with average catches often under a pound. They prefer the lake’s rocky shorelines.
Other Aquatic Life and Non-Game Fish
Beyond the primary game fish, Shaver Lake supports various non-game fish species. Brown Bullhead Catfish are present, typically found in shallower areas of the lake. These catfish can be active during the late spring, though their size is often stunted due to population density.
Other species such as Bluegill and Crappie also inhabit the lake. While not typically targeted by most anglers, these fish play a role in the lake’s food web. These species prefer areas with submerged vegetation or structures.
Angling Tips and Lake Regulations
For Rainbow Trout, shore anglers frequently use nightcrawlers or PowerBait, particularly near creek inlets and in coves such as Camp Edison and Dorabelle Cove. Trolling with downriggers set between 15 to 25 feet, using dodgers with small spinners or hoochies, proves effective for both Kokanee Salmon and Rainbow Trout, particularly in areas like Stevenson Bay, Boy Scout Cove, and Black Rock. Smallmouth Bass respond well to small reaction baits like cranks and underspins, especially around rocky points.
Anglers must adhere to current fishing regulations to ensure legal compliance. It is mandatory to possess a valid California fishing license before engaging in any fishing activity. Regulations regarding bag limits, size restrictions, and specific lake rules are subject to change and are enforced by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. For the most up-to-date information, anglers should consult the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s official regulations.