Get Ready To Wet A Line In Yosemite
Angler preparing his rod image by Elzbieta Sekowska from
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Fishing in Yosemite will require one of two things. If you fly-fish, anglers will do well with a 9-foot fly rod rated for 3- to 5-weight fly line. Spin anglers will want to carry something like a 5-foot, 5-inch to a 7-foot lightweight rod. Fish with light gear including any less than 6-lb. line.
Trout Will Be The Main Course
Yosemite is home to rainbow, golden, brook and brown trout. All four species are found in various waters. Brookies and golden trout tend to be found in the upper reaches in creeks and rivers while browns and rainbows populate roadside waters.
Flies And Lures Are a Safe Option
Picking a fly or lure can be pretty daunting. To make it easier on anglers, the top three lures to try include small gold Mepps, Yo-Zuri Pins Minnows and silver Super Dupers. For flies, try attractors like royal Wulffs or stimulators or try caddis dries paired with basic nymphs like pheasant tails and gold-ribbed hare's ears.
Regulations Limit Fishing Access
No live or dead minnows or other bait fish, amphibians, non-preserved fish eggs, or roe may be used or possessed. Fishing from bridges and docks is prohibited. Specific regulations apply to many of the park's waters. Fishing in Yosemite Valley, El Portal and the Tuolumne River from the O'Shaughnessy Dam downstream to Early Intake Diversion Dam features many restrictions.
Time to Plan a Trip
Before running out the door to try their luck, anglers must secure a California fishing license and check with Yosemite rangers about possible closures or restrictions on size and limits if they plan to keep fish. The park offers lots of camping and a few lodges, but book early as reservations fill up fast.
