The Upper Kern River is fishing well overall, with flows around 700 CFS—moderate and fishable in most areas. California Fish and Wildlife has continued stocking trout along the popular 20-mile stretch above Kernville, and anglers are reporting solid action on both bait and artificial presentations. Salmon eggs, garlic-scented Powerbait in chartreuse or orange, crickets, and small spinners like Rooster Tails and Panther Martins are all producing fish. Fly anglers are also doing well with attractor nymphs, streamers, and dry flies, especially during the late afternoon hatches. The best success has come by focusing on slower sections and eddies behind rocks, where trout are holding out of the current. The Lower Kern River is running stronger, with flows near 1,650 CFS, making wading more difficult and potentially unsafe in some stretches. Bank fishing is recommended. Trout plants are scheduled for next week in Section 3 (Sandy Flat to the Isabella Dam), and some anglers are already reporting trout catches using salmon eggs, garlic Powerbait, and small spinners. Smallmouth bass are also starting to show up in the lower stretches, particularly near rocky areas, eddies, and slower-moving water. Soft plastics, curly-tail grubs, and small swimbaits in natural colors are working well for bass. Catfish are present but haven't been a main focus lately—cut bait and nightcrawlers are your best bet for targeting them.

Contact Cope’s Tackle and Rod Shop at 661-679-6351 or check us out online at Tackle and Rod.com

Cope's Tackle and Rod Shop has the largest selection of fishing tackle in the Central Valley. We carry all the equipment from top manufactures to make your fishing trip more successful! Whether your fishing for Bluegill at a local pond or Bluefin Tuna far offshore we are your one stop shop for all your fishing needs.



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