Crowley Lake Fishing Report Guide
Crowley Lake Fishing Report Guide
Welcome, folks! Today, we’re diving into everything you need to know about fishing at Crowley Lake in California. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, this guide is packed with tips, tricks, and all the details you need for a fantastic fishing adventure.
About Crowley Lake Fishing
Crowley Lake is a picturesque reservoir located in eastern California, near the town of Mammoth Lakes. This stunning lake, created by the damming of the Owens River, is renowned for its excellent trout fishing, clear waters, and breathtaking mountain scenery. Situated in the heart of the Eastern Sierra region, Crowley Lake offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outstanding fishing opportunities, making it a top destination for anglers from all over.
Crowley Lake Fishing Details
Here’s a quick rundown of the essential details about Crowley Lake:
- Water Surface: 5,300 acres
- Shoreline: 45 miles
- Average Depth: 40 feet
- Max Depth: 100 feet
- Surface Elevation: 6,800 feet
- Location: Near Mammoth Lakes, California
- Coordinates: 37.6469° N, 118.7407° W
- Accessibility: Easily accessible by car with multiple boat ramps
- Type of Lake: Man-made reservoir
- Lake Amenities:
- Boat ramps
- Fishing piers
- Picnic areas
- Restrooms
- Hiking trails
- Camping areas
- Marina
Types of Fish in Crowley Lake
Crowley Lake is home to a variety of fish species, making it a prime destination for anglers. Here’s a detailed look at the main types of fish you can find and where they usually hang out:
- Rainbow Trout: Often found in the deeper parts of the lake during warmer months and near the surface in cooler months. They are most active during early morning and late evening.
- Brown Trout: Typically located near rocky shores and underwater ledges. They are more active during cooler months.
- Cutthroat Trout: Found in deeper waters and near the mouths of inlets and streams. They are most active in the spring and fall.
- Sacramento Perch: Usually in shallow waters near the shore, especially around piers and docks.
- Largemouth Bass: Often found near submerged structures, fallen trees, and vegetation. They are most active during early morning and late evening.
- Smallmouth Bass: Typically located near rocky shores and underwater ledges. They are more active during cooler months.
Best Fishing Baits, Lures, and Tackle
Choosing the right bait and tackle can make a big difference in your fishing success. Here are some recommendations for each type of fish in Crowley Lake:
- Rainbow Trout:
- Baits: PowerBait, nightcrawlers, and salmon eggs
- Lures: Spinners, spoons, and small crankbaits
- Tackle: Light to medium rod with a spinning reel
- Brown Trout:
- Baits: Live minnows, worms, and artificial flies
- Lures: Jigs, streamers, and crankbaits
- Tackle: Medium rod with a fast-action reel
- Cutthroat Trout:
- Baits: Nightcrawlers, shrimp, and salmon eggs
- Lures: Spoons, spinners, and soft plastics
- Tackle: Light to medium rod with a spinning reel
- Sacramento Perch:
- Baits: Worms, small insects, and bread
- Lures: Tiny jigs and micro-spinners
- Tackle: Ultralight rod with a small spinning reel
- Largemouth Bass:
- Baits: Live minnows, plastic worms, and crankbaits
- Lures: Spinnerbaits, jigs, and topwater lures
- Tackle: Medium to heavy rod with a fast-action reel
- Smallmouth Bass:
- Baits: Live crayfish and minnows
- Lures: Jigs, crankbaits, and soft plastics
- Tackle: Medium rod with a sensitive tip and fast-action reel
- 8 SEGMENTS LIFELIKE LURES: Designed with 8 segment multi-jointed body, TRUSCEND fishing lure can sink slowly and move flexible in water. In addition, life-like swimming actions make it attracting more catches and provoking predator fish to strike.
- BERKLEY POWERBAIT POWER MINNOW FRESHWATER SOFT PLASTIC BAITS: Featuring lifelike details, these pre-rigged Power Minnow baits have 3D eyes and holographic inserts to attract attention, making them an essential tool for any angler.
- ULTRA-SHARP OWNER HOOKS – Equipped with sharp high quality OWNER high carbon steel hooks and built-in magnet, the innovative design of these soft lures can help ensure increased fish hook ups in all situations while Reduce the odds getting hung up when fishing, thus saving your bait for future use.
- Large size fishing lures set: 2.5’’- 3’’ / Heavy weighted body: 0.25 – 0.28 oz / larger and heavier design to catch big fish
Best Fishing Spot Locations
Finding the right spot can be the key to a successful fishing trip. Here are some of the best fishing spots around Crowley Lake:
- The Dam Area: Great for rainbow and brown trout. The deeper waters near the dam provide an ideal habitat for these species.
- Hilton Bay: Known for cutthroat trout, especially near submerged structures and the mouths of inlets.
- Green Banks: A hot spot for Sacramento perch, particularly around shallow waters and vegetation.
- Sandy Point: Ideal for largemouth and smallmouth bass, with plenty of rocky shores and submerged structures.
- Crooked Creek: Excellent for rainbow trout and cutthroat trout, with plenty of inlets and streams.
- North Arm: Best for bass fishing, with a mix of shallow and deep waters providing a perfect habitat.
Fishing Tips and Recommendations
Here are some general tips to help you make the most of your fishing trip to Crowley Lake:
- Early Morning and Late Evening: Fish are generally more active during these times, so plan your trip accordingly.
- Seasonal Patterns: Pay attention to the seasonal movements of fish. For example, trout are more active in cooler months and spawn in the spring.
- Use the Right Gear: Make sure your tackle matches the type of fish you’re targeting.
- Weather Matters: Overcast days can be particularly good for fishing, as fish are more likely to be near the surface.
- Be Patient: Sometimes fish need time to bite, so find a good spot and wait quietly.
- Stay Quiet: Fish are sensitive to noise, so try to minimize loud sounds and movements.
- Check Local Regulations: Make sure you’re aware of any fishing regulations or restrictions in place.
Crowley Lake Fishing Fishing Reviews
Here are five positive reviews from anglers who have enjoyed fishing at Crowley Lake:
- John D.: “Crowley Lake is a trout fisherman’s paradise! I caught several big rainbows near the dam area. The scenery is beautiful, and the facilities are excellent.”
- Sarah M.: “I love bringing my family to Crowley Lake. The perch fishing near Green Banks is perfect for kids, and we always have a blast.”
- Mike T.: “The cutthroat trout fishing here is fantastic. I had a great day fishing in Hilton Bay and caught my limit in just a few hours.”
- Emily R.: “Bass fishing at Crowley Lake is unbeatable. I had an awesome time fishing near Sandy Point and landed several big largemouths.”
- Tom B.: “This lake is perfect for a peaceful day of fishing. The scenery is stunning, and the fish are plentiful. Highly recommend!”
Top-Rated RV Parks, RV Resorts, and Campgrounds Near Crowley Lake
If you’re planning to stay overnight, here are five top-rated RV parks and campgrounds near Crowley Lake, along with their features and amenities:
- Crowley Lake Fish Camp
- Features: Located right by the lake with scenic views
- Amenities: Boat ramps, restrooms, showers, picnic areas
- Hookups: Full hookups (water, electric, sewer)
- Distance to Lake: Adjacent to the lake
- Convict Lake Campground
- Features: Beautiful mountain setting, close to Convict Lake
- Amenities: Restrooms, picnic areas, hiking trails
- Hookups: Water and electric
- Distance to Lake: 10 miles
- Brown’s Owens River Campground
- Features: Riverside setting, fishing access
- Amenities: Restrooms, showers, picnic areas
- Hookups: Full hookups (water, electric, sewer)
- Distance to Lake: 15 miles
- McGee Creek RV Park & Campground
- Features: Scenic views, creek access
- Amenities: Restrooms, showers, laundry facilities
- Hookups: Full hookups (water, electric, sewer)
- Distance to Lake: 20 miles
- Lake Mary Campground
- Features: Stunning lakeside views, fishing access
- Amenities: Restrooms, picnic areas, hiking trails
- Hookups: None (dry camping)
- Distance to Lake: 25 miles
Crowley Lake Fishing Summary
Crowley Lake is a fantastic destination for anglers of all ages and skill levels. With its variety of fish species, beautiful surroundings, and excellent facilities, it’s the perfect spot for a day of fishing or a weekend getaway. Whether you’re targeting rainbow trout, brown trout, cutthroat trout, Sacramento perch, largemouth bass, or smallmouth bass, this lake has something to offer everyone. So pack your gear, head to Crowley Lake, and enjoy a memorable fishing experience!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions anglers have about fishing at Crowley Lake:
- Q: Do I need a fishing license to fish at Crowley Lake?
- A: Yes, a valid California fishing license is required for all anglers aged 16 and older.
- Q: Are there boat rentals available at Crowley Lake?
- A: Yes, boat rentals are available at Crowley Lake Fish Camp. You can rent rowboats, motorboats, and pontoon boats.
- Q: What are the lake’s operating hours?
- A: The lake is open from sunrise to sunset. However, it’s always a good idea to check for any seasonal changes or special events.
- Q: Is there a fee to enter or fish at Crowley Lake?
- A: There may be a small entry fee for vehicles. Fishing is generally free, but you need to have a valid fishing license.
- Q: Can I bring my dog to Crowley Lake?
- A: Yes, dogs are allowed, but they must be kept on a leash at all times, and you must clean up after them.
I hope this guide helps you plan your next fishing trip to Crowley Lake. Tight lines and happy fishing!
