Bass Lake
(Directions) Bass Lake is a freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada, located 14 mi (23 km) from the southern entrance to Yosemite National Park. The lake is a hydro-electric reservoir operated by the Pacific Gas and Electric Company. In addition to electricity generation, its water is used for crop irrigation in the San Joaquin Valley. Most of the land around the lake is part of the Sierra National Forest. The U.S. Forest Service designated the lake an official Recreation Area and has developed campgrounds and picnic areas on the south shore of the lake. The north shore of the lake is primarily made up of private cabins and homes. It has a year-round population of 607.
Eastman Lake
(Directions) Eastman Lake, located in the Sierra Nevada Foothills approximately 23 miles northeast of Chowchilla on the Chowchilla River, is the designated trophy bass fishery of the Fresno and Madera region and the first of its kind in the state. The Department of Fish and Game restricts anglers to a 22 inch minimum size limit and a one fish bag limit, making catch and release mandatory for the overwhelming majority of bass caught in the reservoir.
Hensley Lake
(Directions) Hensley Lake is located northeast of Madera at an elevation of 540 feet. The lake contains 1,570 surface acres with 25 miles of oak and granite covered shoreline. There is one campground with 55 sites suitable for both tents and RV’s; group camping available. All boating is permitted as well as water skiing, jet skis, and swimming; two improved launch ramps are available. For the angler, Hensley is most noted for its excellent largemouth bass fishing and summer night catfishing. Hensley also holds a good population of crappie and bluegill as well as frequently planted trout in the winter. For more information contact Hensley lake at (559) 673-5151. Lefty’s Lure Company (209) 673-4607. Camping Reservations (877) 444-6777.
Millerton Lake
(Directions) With over 40 miles of shore land for water sports, this SRA offers visitors swimming, fishing, and boating. The hills surrounding the lake provide good hiking opportunities. Wildlife in the park includes ground squirrels, cottontails, mule deer, badgers and bald and golden eagles. During winter, the park has special boat tours to view the bald eagles.
Pine Flat Lake
(Directions) Less than an hour east of Fresno in the Sierra and Sequoia National Forests. The scenic and rugged Kings River Canyon is the location of this beautiful park where fishing, boating, and water skiing are all available. Pine Flat Lake provides recreation opportunities for hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. The lake is located in the oak covered foothills above the San Joaquin Valley.
