West Walker River (CA) - Walker, CA

River Information

Fish Species: Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass
The West Walker River, within the vicinity of Walker, California, is a highly significant and accessible freestone trout fishery. Characterized by a classic fluvial morphology encompassing riffles, runs, and pools, this section sustains robust populations of stocked Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and naturally reproducing wild Brown Trout (Salmo trutta). The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) implements regular stocking programs to bolster Rainbow Trout numbers, ensuring a reliable put-and-take fishery, while the more discerning wild Brown Trout offer a challenging pursuit.

Angling methodologies are comprehensive. Conventional bait presentations and spin casting with diminutive spinners and spoons are consistently efficacious for stocked trout. Fly fishing, however, is exceptionally productive for both wild and hatchery-reared fish. Nymphing with imitative patterns (e.g., Prince Nymph, Copper John, caddis, stonefly) is a primary technique, complemented by opportunistic dry fly presentations during entomological hatches (e.g., Parachute Adams, Elk Hair Caddis) that demand precise, drag-free drifts. Optimal fishing periods span from late spring through autumn, aligning with the open trout season. Accessibility is facilitated by Highway 395, providing extensive riparian access. Anglers are unequivocally mandated to consult current CDFW regulations concerning bag limits and any area-specific provisions, ensuring compliance with established conservation protocols for this vital Eastern Sierra resource.



Latest Photos

7-20-2024
7-10-2024
7-10-2024
5 lbs. 12 oz.
Richard Ceballis
7-5-2024

West Walker River (CA) Whoppers

Species Weight Date Report
Rainbow Trout 6 lbs. 12 oz. 8-27-2016 View Report
Rainbow Trout 6 lbs. 8 oz. 8-03-2021 View Report
Rainbow Trout 6 lbs. 8 oz. 7-17-2022 View Report
Rainbow Trout 6 lbs. 7 oz. 7-18-2022 View Report
Rainbow Trout 6 lbs. 7 oz. 8-02-2023 View Report
Rainbow Trout 6 lbs. 1 oz. 7-20-2022 View Report
Rainbow Trout 6 lbs. 7-25-2022 View Report
Rainbow Trout 5 lbs. 14 oz. 7-12-2022 View Report
Rainbow Trout 5 lbs. 12 oz. 7-05-2024 View Report
Rainbow Trout 4 lbs. 7 oz. 7-20-2021 View Report


Latest Fish Reports

Date Report Author
6-15-2025 Flows have started to come down
We haven’t heard much from the West lately... more »
Jim Reid
6-1-2025 It’s a little hit and miss
It sounds like most days the West is... more »
Jim Reid
5-25-2025 It’s a little hit and miss up there
It sounds like most days the West is... more »
Jim Reid
5-18-2025 Some of the rapid areas were a little high but the calmer stretches looked pretty good
Haven’t heard much news from the West lately... more »
Kens Sporting Goods Staff
5-11-2025 Have heard that it has been intermittently high and dirty
We haven’t had much for reports on the... more »
Kens Sporting Goods Staff

Detailed Map