Mammoth Pool Reservoir near Oakhurst: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  Out in Madera County, California, sits Mammoth Pool Reservoir. It sits in oak and grass country. This is sizeable water at about 1,056 acres, and a boat opens up most of it. The edge covers about 13 miles, enough to hold several distinct areas. On our Madera County list it sits near the top for size. For supplies, Oakhurst is 19 miles out. Beyond it, Auberry at 21 miles and Coarsegold at 23 miles. The nearest edge is a long way off, so local rules apply throughout.

• Where to Fish on Mammoth Pool Reservoir

  No depth figure has reached our records, which makes a plummet useful. Levels move with the draw rather than the rain on water like this. Look for where the old bank line still shows under the surface. Across Madera County, recorded fish include brown trout, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass and bluegill. The county list is broader than any single water. Fish Mammoth Pool Reservoir where the bottom changes rather than where it looks deep.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Climate records put August near 72°F and January near 39°F. Fish stay active all year, but they move with the heat. Heat pushes fish deep from June onwards, so start early. April and May are the settled weeks, with October close behind. That shapes the year on Mammoth Pool Reservoir.

• Tackle & Baits

  No access rule appears in what we hold. Public mapping records no formal access here, so plan for a walk and soft ground. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Read any posted signs at the access point rather than assuming. Access can change hands, so last year's answer may not hold. Failing this one, try Lower Horsethief Lake, 4.9 miles away. Ask locally about Mammoth Pool Reservoir if anything is unclear.