One of the largest reservoirs in California. The lake has total surface area, when full, of eleven-thousand acres. Stocked regularly with trout. It is fed by the Kern River. Has many fish species including catfish, rainbow trout, brown trout, crappie, bluegill, pikeminnow, shad, salmon, bass, carp, and even koi.

The lake is about 40 away miles from Downtown Bakersfield, with an elevation of approximately 2,500 ft above sea level. The towns of Wofford Heights and Mtn. Mesa neighbor the lake. Many different campgrounds can be found right along the water.

A record 50-lb catfish was caught here a few years ago. An excellent place to fish for many species of fish. This reservoir is also home to the wildly popular fishing derby that’s hosted every year in March/April.

Lake Isabella is known for its excellent crappie bite in mid-spring (April-June). A favorite spot to catch crappie at this time is Joughin Cove. Regulations: Trout: Limit of 5, no size restrictions Bass: Limit of 2, must be longer than 15 inches Catfish: No limit, no size restrictions Bluegill: No limit, no size restrictions Crappie: Limit of 25, no size restrictions Carp: No limit, no size restrictions Most artificial lures and bait allowed

Popular Baits: Garlic PowerBait (Trout) Shad (Catfish) Crankbaits (Bass) Chicken Liver (Catfish)