The Kern River is running strong but clear, and fishing conditions have been favorable for both fly and spin anglers. Flows are moderate in the upper sections and slightly heavier in the lower stretches, especially near Kernville. Trout action remains consistent with stocked rainbows and the occasional holdover brown or wild rainbow in the mix. Successful baits include salmon eggs, nightcrawlers, and small spinners like Panther Martins and Rooster Tails. Fly anglers are reporting steady results with parachute Adams, stimulators, and bead head nymphs (like Pheasant Tails and Prince Nymphs) under an indicator in slower pockets and eddies. The upper river around Fairview and Johnsondale Bridge has been particularly productive for fly fishers in the early morning and late evening. Lower sections near Kernville are seeing good trout bites as well, especially near calmer runs and deeper holes. Watch for rattlesnakes along the trail and use caution near swift water. With water temperatures climbing into the low 60s, early mornings and evenings are your best bet for active fish. In the Lower Kern, the river is flowing steadily with warmer water temps and a mix of fishing opportunities. Flows are moderate but swift in some sections, especially near the canyon areas, so anglers should use caution when wading or fishing from the bank. Trout fishing has been fair to good, with most success coming early and late in the day. Holdover rainbows are hitting on salmon eggs, nightcrawlers, and garlic-scented Powerbait near common access points. Spinners like Rooster Tails and Kastmasters are also producing bites, particularly in deeper pools and runs. Smallmouth bass action is starting to pick up as water temps warm into the mid-60s. Look for rocky stretches and slower eddies where smallies are ambushing prey. Soft plastics, small swimbaits, and curly tail grubs in natural colors are working well. As of this report, the Upper Kern River is flowing at 1739 CFS, while the Lower Kern is running at 1,470 CFS.

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