California’s nearly 400-mile Sierra Nevada mountain range is an outdoor lover’s paradise, home to both the highest mountain and tallest waterfall in the United States. The largest trees in the world grow in this region. A diverse and unique array of wildlife fills the mountains, canyons, trees, and waterways. Additionally, some of the country’s most iconic natural attractions and national parks, such as Lake Tahoe and Yosemite National Park, are in the Sierra Nevada. This mountain range also holds a number of hidden gems that provide an amazing outdoor escape, like Wishon Reservoir.
Wishon Reservoir is located in Sierra National Forest. This roughly 960-acre body of water was created in 1958 by damming the North Fork Kings River, primarily for hydroelectric purposes. Water is pumped between Wishon Reservoir and nearby Courtright Lake via a series of tunnels between them. Although the lake was created for energy reasons, it now provides an array of outdoor recreational opportunities, such as fishing, boating, hiking, and camping.
Because it is largely surrounded by granite rock, quite deep, and located at high elevation, the water in Wishon Reservoir is typically crystal-clear. That, combined with the backdrop of the surrounding Sierra Nevada landscape, makes Wishon Reservoir an idyllic location for outdoor activities. However, timing is everything, as road access to the reservoir is only open late spring through mid-fall. From November through April, the roads are typically closed due to snow. So, check for road conditions before planning a trip to the reservoir.
Fishing, boating, and paddling on Wishon Reservoir
While there are a number of ways to enjoy the cool, crystal-clear waters of Wishon Reservoir, fishing ranks at the top. Anglers can find a trifecta of trout species: rainbow, brown, and brook, fishing from boats or casting from shore. Fly fishing is another popular way to fish for trout, which are regularly stocked to help bolster the quality and quantity of fish in the lake…