Wild Natives
Johnsondale Bridge
August, 2003
Last week we
fished around Limestone, this week we'll visit the Wild Trout area located
at the Johnsondale bridge (approx. 17mi. North of Kernville on Hwy
99).
The wild trout
area begins just below the bridge and continues into the canyon along the
Kern river. Parking is available at the bridge. Crossing the
bridge and going down steps, a trail along the east wall of the canyon,
follows the river upstream.
This is a Catch
& Release / Barb less hook only area. But should provide the
avid fly fisherman a little fun.
The week
preceding our visit, there had been storms further north. This
apparently resulted in less than desirable water clarity because of the
runoff. Several frustrated anglers lined the banks nearest the
bridge. Noting this, we decided to shift our visit from one of
fishing to one of scouting, and hike upstream for a look-see.
Judging
from the natural beauty of the area, one can easily imagine the splendor
of fly fishing it. The area of water from the bridge to about 1/2
mile upstream is a wide and gentle flowing river. I can visualize
what it must be like to fly fish here in the late afternoon. When
the natives are fly collecting before nightfall.
Deeper into the
canyon, the river narrows. Unfortunately, we didn't hike further
than 3/4th of a mile. Basically, we just wanted to scout around and
then head down river. Although today was a poor example, we
recognized the areas' potential for fly fishing natives.
Before turning
back, we used the butt-slide technique to get from
the trail to the river below. In doing so, we discovered a nice little
cove. It reminded me of my childhood years with my Dad. This
may even be one of the spots we fished. At any rate, this looks like
a good place to have a picnic with the family ... and get a little native
trout action to boot.
Enjoying my
lunch besides this gentle flowing river surrounded by lush vegetation, I
couldn't have been more pleased. Occasionally, someone fly fishing
just down stream. But it didn't look like he was having much luck.
After lunch we
drove back down to below Limestone and fished the river till
nightfall. The water clarity being what it was, we could buy a
bite. Oh well, it was an enjoyable trip all the same.
The next
morning we broke camp and headed for home, taking a parting shots of Lake
Isabella on the way.
We'll
be back
