Fishing action remains very good across the lake

Lake Isabella - Lake Isabella, CA (Kern County)


by Chad Burton and Chris Borden
8-22-2025
Website

Lake Isabella has dropped to 43 percent of capacity and continues to release water, but fishing action remains very good across the lake. The bass bite has been excellent, especially from the shoreline and in the North Fork areas around rocks and trees. Most of the fish have been on the smaller side, but more quality bass are beginning to show. Anglers are finding success with 4-inch Keitechs, drop shots, small jigs, squarebills, shallow crankbaits, Flukes, spinnerbaits, and Senkos in shad patterns. Larger worms in the 8- to 11-inch range in darker colors have also been effective, as well as dropshot worms in oxblood or purple when worked down points to about 20 feet. The topwater bite has been solid in the early hours, and Rocky Point has been producing some of the better fish. The crappie bite continues to be steady, especially in the marina, where small shad jigs and live shiners are working well. Trout action has also been consistent in the North Fork and around both dams. Boaters trolling leadcore are reporting larger trout on Needlefish, Tasmanian Devils, and Flicker Shads. Catfish are showing up more often this week, with the best action coming in the evening and nighttime hours. Frozen shad, SSS Dip Bait, and nightcrawlers have all been reliable options for targeting cats after dark.



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