Fishing at Pine Flat Lake

Pine Flat Lake has spotted, smallmouth, and largemouth bass, brown and rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, bluegill, crappie, and catfish. Fishing is best in the spring and early summer when the water levels are high. Pine Flat Lake is known for its record spotted bass, which are feeding year-round. The abundance of crawdads and threadfin shad provide plenty of feed for the bass.

Where to Fish on Pine Flat Lake

If you are after bass, head up the Kings River Arm and try any of the coves and inlets. Particularly good are the Sycamore Creek inlet and Big Creek Inlet. Back closer to the main body of the lake, the little cove at Lefever Creek can provide some good fishing as well as Zebe Creek. The Windy Gap area is another favorite spot with local anglers.

Shore fishing can be rewarding along the bank south of the Deer Creek Recreation Area and in Deer Creek Cove. Another good spot in the inlet at Billy Creek about 2 miles south of the Trimmer Recreation Area. In many places, however, shore access is difficult.

Pine Flat Lake Water Level

Record Fish from Pine Flat Lake

• Spotted Bass - 10 lb. 4 oz., caught by Bryan Shishido of Fresno in 2001
• Largemouth Bass - 22 lbs. 2 oz.

Which Baits and Lures Are Catching Fish at
Pine Flat Lake?

Bass

Senkos, Robo Worms, swimbaits, Shallow Diving Crankbaits, Plastic Worms, Small baits, lightweight jigheads, Spinnerbait.
Spotted bass fishermen favor lightweight lines (6 - 8-pound test)

Trout and Salmon

Berkley Powerbait, SpeedyShiners, Nightcrawlers. Rebels, minnow imitations, spoons, and Rapalas are always good for salmon

Crappie

Small Minnows, Spinners

Catfish

Nightcrawlers, Mackerel, Mini-jigs, Anchovies, Chicken Livers, Crayfish, Minnows

Bluegill

Worms, Grubs, Nymphs

Pine Flat Lake Handicapped Fishing Access

Fresno County Parks operates a handicap fishing access park on the Kings River downstream from Pine Flat Lake. To reach it, take Highway 180 east to Piedra Road, turn left on Piedra to a right on Pine Flat Road. Pass the Choinumni Park entrance toward the campground. Take the last right hand turn before crossing the river.
Pine Flat Handicap Fishing Access