Fishing at Ward Lake, Fresno County, California

• Overview

  Set in Fresno County, California, this is Ward Lake. It stands 7,339 feet above sea level. At roughly 7 acres, the whole thing is within casting reach of a single walk. The nearest place of any size is Mammoth Lakes, 24 miles away. Then West Bishop, 30 miles, and Auberry, 31 miles. The county line is nowhere near, so one local authority covers the water.

• Where to Fish on Ward Lake

  Depth is unknown to us, and the shoreline is the better guide. The productive water is a rod length or two out, not a hundred. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. County-wide records name brown trout, brook trout and rainbow trout. The list covers the county rather than this water alone, so treat it as a guide. The near bank of Ward Lake is often the one people ignore.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Typical August readings run about 59°F; by January the average is down near 28°F. Whether it freezes depends on the year. In a normal year the cover is thin and short-lived. March through May is the strongest run, with October and November a second stretch. The season on Ward Lake rarely departs from it.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing on record says whether the bank is open or closed. Nothing is listed nearby for parking or launching a boat. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Ask in the nearest town if you are unsure. Signs go up and come down, so check on the day. For a change of water, Doris Lake is 2.9 miles distant. Confirm before you fish Ward Lake.