Home to some of the best trout fishing in the country, Mammoth is a great place for anglers of all skill levels. If you’re searching for a beautifully pristine and conveniently accessible place you can frequently visit to cast your line and try your luck, you’ll love Mammoth. The public fishing spots here are largely accessible for most but not all of the year—although there are some year-round options, too. Here’s what you need to know about when you can fish in the Mammoth area, brought to you by the friendly folks at ASO Mammoth, your year-round one-stop shop for everything from fishing equipment and licenses to Mammoth snowboard rentals.
Fishing Season Runs from April to November
In Mono County, where Mammoth is located, fishing season officially begins on the last Saturday in April and continues until the middle of November. This applies to the main lakes in the area where fishing is permitted. Directly in Mammoth Lakes and the immediate area, the top spots for fishing during the typical fishing season include:
• The well-stocked lakes in the Mammoth Lakes Basin
• Sherwin Lakes
• Mammoth Creek, which is known for its abundance of pan-sized trout
There’s also a “hidden gem” below Highway 395 that’s often appreciated by anglers looking for a less crowded spot. This is where you’ll find a small stream with fantastic fishing opportunities.
Some Local Spots Allow Year-Round Fishing
Mammoth has some catch-and-release fisheries in the Upper Owens River area over by Benton Bridge where you can fish throughout the year. Other year-round fishing destinations in the Mammoth area include:
• Big Springs
• Part of the East Walker River just below the Bridgeport Reservoir
• Hot Creek
• The Pleasant Valley Reservoir and some other lower-elevation areas in nearby Inyo County
Get Ready for Your Mammoth Fishing Trip
What’s available for fishing depends on when you prefer to visit the Mammoth area. If you come here in winter, you’ll be somewhat limited when it comes to fishing possibilities. Still, you can have a productive trip if you check out the year-round options mentioned above.
In the summer, you’ll have access to many more fishing options. If you prefer added convenience, this is a good time to come because it’s much easier to rent boats during fishing season. Also, you’ll be able to gravitate toward popular spots like Convict Lake if you prefer added perks such as public showers and nearby campsites. Further prepare for a fishing trip to Mammoth by:
• Dressing appropriately, since temperatures shift throughout the day
• Bringing light snacks and some water to stay hydrated
• Packing your supplies or getting what you need locally
• Determining what kind of fish you prefer to catch—various species of trout are much more common here
Don’t Forget Your License
Anybody 16 or older needs a fishing license to legally fish in Mammoth. Annual and one- or two-day licenses are available. If you go with the two-day option, this applies to two consecutive days only. Licenses can be purchased at many places in the area, or you can visit the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website for more information.
If you want to experience some of the best fishing in the country, come to beautiful Mammoth. No matter which sport brings you here, stop by and see the knowledgeable staff at ASO Mammoth. Whether they need fishing licenses, mountain biking equipment, or high-quality ski rental, Mammoth visitors can find everything they need at our shop. Drop by on your way to the water or give us a call at 760-965-3444.