Rainbow Trout

Targeting Rainbow Trout at Lake Isabella requires adapting to fluctuating water levels and temperatures. This Kern County reservoir can be feast or famine, but the rewards are worth it. Prime time is spring and fall when the water cools and the trout become more active, following schools of shad. Early mornings and late evenings are generally best. Try trolling Rapalas or spoons along the dam or near the river inlets. A local tip: check the lake level before you go. Low water can concentrate the fish but also make launching difficult. Also, be prepared to adjust your depth frequently as the thermocline shifts. Isabella's rainbows can be surprisingly picky, so carry a variety of lures and baits.