Bass Lake

Second only to Yosemite in terms of popularity, Bass Lake is a popular vacation spot year-round. The sapphire waters surrounded by towering pine trees make for a a vacation destination matched only in the wealth of activities offered. 

Named by Sunset Magazine  as one of "The West's Best Lakes", Bass Lake is renowned for excellent fishing. Wakeboarders flock to Bass Lake throughout the spring and summer as do boaters, jetski enthusiasts and more.
Off the water,  amazing hiking trails offer beautiful views of Bass Lake and the surrounding Sierra National Forest. For those who prefer to remain closer to civilization, there is shopping at the Pines Village and dining at excellent restaurants throughout. Ducey's on the Lake, The Forks Resort, Miller's Landing and Casa Velasco all offer an array of cuisines to satisfy any craving.
Bass Lake is also a popular event center. Numerous events attract people year round. One of the most popular is the annual July 4 fireworks display. Few images can top the scene of brilliant fireworks reflected back in the waters of Bass Lake as thousands of people gather on and off the water for the spectacle. Other popular events include weekly farmer's markets in the summer, arts and craft fairs throughout the year, the CIE Wakeboarding Competition, the Bass Lake Fishing Derby and many more.

When you take a Bass Lake vacation, you never have to stray far from the water. Three resorts sit right on the shore, while numerous vacation rentals are either on the water or just up from the lake's edge. If you like to rough it, numerous campsites are near the shore as well, keeping you close to the action. As one would imagine, Bass Lake has abundant wildlife. Perhaps the most well known residents are the mating pair of Bald Eagles, delighting visitors and residents alike when they make their appearances. Bass Lake is also home to Golden Eagles while other animals like deer, raccoons and even the occasional  bear have been spotted.

• View Bass Lake Events
• Bass Lake Chamber of Commerce
• More Bass Lake info
  Virtual Tour of Bass Lake

*Bass Lake Fireworks photo courtesy Pat Althizer - Photo Safari Yosemite

Fishing Reports

Weekly fishing updates provided by Tom Tusso of Bass Lake Watersports.

Fishing at Bass Lake has required a little more patience than in past weeks.  Bass are still active, but early worm gets the fish.  Fish the shallows, where the grass meets the waters edge, about 5-7 am if you want the greatest success.  While this may seem early for some vacationers, I can assure you the lake will present a' John Muir' picture that will etch in your mind forever.  Use live worms with a medium hook and a small split-shot weight about 6" from the hook for action.  Let it fall to the ground and jig it along at a slow speed.

Plastics work as well.  Use a chartreuse color and fish it like the live worm, or fish the docks at the end about 6' below the end docks.

Walk softly and carry a big hook, as bass are smart fish and can hear and see you before you see them.  

Tout are still biting, but go down deep like the Titanic.  Troll down by the dam near Miller's, as most trout now are not biting at the north end of the lake due to the temperature difference.  They just stocked the lake again, so there are plenty of trout for all who fish.  Use traditional rigs and fish by boat.  The Forks, Millers, and Bass lake Water Sports all sell baits that work if you run out or need help.

Crappie are still biting, but use a small hook and a small piece of worm and be ready to help set the hook.  Take your kids fishing anytime for these small pan-fish, as they are hungry and easy to catch.  Fish the docks near the shore for these little guys (or gals).

As always, we emphasize catch and release to keep the population strong.

See you enjoying the Lake with your family, Tom / Bass Lake Water Sports basslakeboatrentals.com