What South Lake offers and how to fish it

South Lake sits at 9,750 feet in the Sierra Nevada, about 15 miles southwest of Bishop on the road to Lake Sabrina. It holds golden trout and cutthroat trout in cold, clear water that stays productive from late spring through early fall. The lake is roughly 80 acres, shallow enough that you can wade much of the shoreline, and deep enough in the center to hold fish during the warmest part of summer. Most anglers fish from shore or wade; a few bring float tubes or small rafts, though the Forest Service does not allow motorboats.

The fish here are not large — expect cutthroats and goldens in the 8- to 12-inch range, with occasional fish to 14 inches. What makes South Lake worth the drive is the setting, the consistent action, and the fact that it fishes well even when lower-elevation lakes around Bishop are warming up. The water is too cold for warmwater species, so you are fishing for trout only, and the crowds are lighter than at more famous Bishop lakes like Sabrina or Intake.

Key Takeaways

  • South Lake holds golden trout and cutthroat trout at 9,750 feet, and fishes best from June through September when the high country is snow-free.
  • Small flies and spinners work better than large lures; the fish are not aggressive, and matching the hatch matters more than at lower elevations.
  • You can reach the lake by vehicle, but the last mile is rough dirt road, and parking is limited to a small pullout near the inlet.
  • The Forest Service requires a California fishing license, and the lake is in Inyo National Forest, so you may encounter fire restrictions or road closures in late summer.

When to fish South Lake

South Lake opens when the snow melts, usually in late May or early June, depending on the year. The lake is fishable through September, though by late August the water can warm enough that fish move deeper and bite less during midday. Early morning and evening are most productive in summer. If you are planning a trip, call the Bishop Chamber of Commerce or check the Inyo National Forest website before you go — the road can be closed by snow in spring or by fire restrictions in late summer.

The best fishing is typically June through July, when the water is still cold and fish are actively feeding. August can be good early and late in the day, but midday fishing often slows. By September, the water cools again and fishing picks up, but the season can end abruptly if early snow closes the road.

Flies, spinners, and what the fish will take

South Lake trout are not selective in the way that spring creek fish are, but they are not aggressive either. Small is the rule: size 14 to 18 dry flies work better than larger patterns, and nymphs in the same sizes outfish bigger offerings. Caddis patterns, small mayfly imitations, and attractor flies like the Adams or Royal Wulff all produce. If you are nymphing, bring Hare's Ears, Pheasant Tails, and small Copper Johns.

Spinners in size 0 or 1 — especially gold or silver — work well if you prefer hardware. Cast near the inlet where water enters the lake, along the drop-off on the east shore, and around any visible structure. Avoid the shallowest water in the middle of the day; fish move to deeper water and are harder to reach. Bait fishing is allowed but less effective than flies or spinners, and the fish tend to be smaller when you use bait.

Access and parking

From Bishop, take Highway 168 west toward Lake Sabrina. South Lake is the first major lake you encounter, about 15 miles from town. The road is paved until the last mile, which is rough dirt and can be impassable after heavy rain or snow. Parking is limited to a small pullout near the inlet; if it is full, you may have to park along the road and walk in, or come back another time.

There is no developed campground at South Lake itself, but Sabrina Campground and Intake Campground are nearby on Highway 168, and Bishop has motels and RV parks. If you are day-fishing, plan to arrive early — the parking area fills by mid-morning on weekends. The walk from the parking area to the water is short, less than a quarter mile.

Regulations and what you need to bring

You must have a valid California fishing license to fish South Lake. The lake is in Inyo National Forest, and the general trout regulations apply: check the current year's California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations for bag limits and size restrictions, as these can change. As of recent years, the limit is typically five trout per day, but verify before you fish.

Bring more water than you think you need — the high elevation and dry air dehydrate you quickly, and there is no water source at the lake. Sunscreen and a hat are essential; the sun reflects off the water and the altitude makes UV exposure more intense. If you are wading, bring a wading staff or trekking pole — the bottom is rocky and uneven, and a fall in cold water at this elevation is serious. A small net makes landing fish easier, especially if you are fishing alone.

Challenges and what to expect

The main challenge at South Lake is the altitude and the weather. Even in summer, afternoon thunderstorms can develop quickly, and lightning is a real hazard. If you see clouds building, get off the water and head to your vehicle. The road can be closed by snow in spring or by fire restrictions in late summer — call ahead before making the drive.

The fish are smaller than at some other Sierra lakes, and the action can be slow during the warmest part of the day. If you are expecting fast fishing or large fish, you may be disappointed. But if you want to fish a beautiful high-altitude lake with consistent action and fewer people than the more famous Bishop waters, South Lake delivers. The solitude and the setting are worth the drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a motorboat to South Lake?

No. The Forest Service does not allow motorboats on South Lake. Float tubes, rafts, and small hand-launched boats without motors are permitted, but most anglers fish from shore or wade.

What is the best time of day to fish South Lake?

Early morning and evening are most productive, especially in summer when the water warms during the day. In June and July, you can fish all day, but by August, midday fishing often slows and fish move deeper.

Do I need a backcountry permit to fish South Lake?

No. South Lake is accessible by vehicle and does not require a backcountry permit. You only need a California fishing license. If you plan to camp in the area, check whether the nearby campgrounds require reservations.

What should I do if the road is closed?

Call the Bishop Chamber of Commerce or check the Inyo National Forest website before you drive. If the road is closed by snow or fire restrictions, you can fish lower-elevation lakes around Bishop instead, such as Sabrina or Intake, which typically open earlier and stay open longer.

Are there fish in South Lake year-round?

Yes, but the lake is not accessible year-round. Snow closes the road from November through May most years. The fishing season runs from late May or early June through September, depending on snow and fire conditions.