North Lake - Bishop, CA

Lake Information

Fish Species: Rainbow Trout

North Lake, a smaller yet exquisitely charming high-elevation lake nestled within the renowned Bishop Creek Canyon, consistently ranks as a favored destination among both float tubers and shore anglers. Despite its modest size, which lends to an intimate angling experience, North Lake consistently delivers exceptional trout fishing opportunities. This productivity is largely due to its diligent stocking regime, heavily supplied with Rainbow Trout by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and further enhanced by private plants of trophy-sized trout from local businesses, providing exciting prospects for larger catches. Beyond these planted fish, North Lake also harbors resident populations of wild Brown and Brook Trout, adding a layer of diversity and challenge. Shore access is generally very good, allowing anglers to spread out. Float tubing is particularly effective, enabling silent maneuverability to reach deeper, less pressured sections. Conventional tactics like bait fishing with PowerBait, salmon eggs, or worms are highly effective from shore, while float tubers often succeed with small spoons, spinners, or by fly fishing with nymphs and streamers. The scenic beauty of North Lake, particularly its vibrant fall foliage, enhances the angling experience. Its advantageous proximity to other celebrated fishing locations within the Bishop Creek Canyon makes North Lake an excellent and often essential stop on a comprehensive multi-lake Eastern Sierra fishing itinerary. This combination of consistent stocking, diverse fish populations, excellent access, and stunning natural aesthetics firmly establishes North Lake as a cherished gem in the region's angling landscape.



Latest Photos

Brian Lear from Diamond Bar, CA 3lbs 4oz. He also had a 2lber. Both on an olive Matuka.
Photo Credit: Photos courtesy of @rikrok82 @spike_trout83 And @sierra.smitty
9-18-2019
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Parchers Lake Resort
8-20-2019

Latest Fish Plants

Plant DateSpeciesSourceTotal Pounds
10-20-2024Rainbow TroutCDFW 
10-06-2024Rainbow TroutCDFW 
8-11-2024Rainbow TroutCDFW 
7-28-2024Rainbow TroutCDFW 
7-14-2024Rainbow TroutCDFW 


Latest Fish Reports

Date Report Author
5-1-2025 Berkley Pros Marlon and Dave are still here catching the fish of our dreams!
Berkley Pros Marlon and Dave are still here... more »
Cardinal Village Resort
7-5-2024 North Lake Fishing Report
It’s been stocked twice by DFW but aside... more »
Parchers Resort Gang
8-30-2023 No Report
No Report. ... more »
Parchers Resort Gang
7-8-2023 Fly guys & gals are doing the best
Mostly wild. Browns and Brookies up there at... more »
Parchers Resort Gang
8-3-2021 North Lake Report
We’re not aware of any fish stocking up... more »
Parchers Resort Gang

Detailed Map