Navigating the Wilderness: A Comprehensive Guide to Fishing at Lake Edison

Tucked away between the majestic Mammoth Lakes and Yosemite, this hidden gem stands as one of California’s most remote camping and fishing destinations. Surrounded by pristine wilderness, Lake Edison offers not just a tranquil escape but a haven for anglers seeking a diverse range of fish species and breathtaking scenery.

📈 Latest Fish Plants

Fish here often?

  • Bookmark this page to check recent fish plant data before you head out on your trip.
  • Subscribe and get weekly California Fish Plant Data right in your inbox for the week ahead. We send out fish plant data for ALL fishing locations in California every Saturday at 7am PT🎣
  • Get additional subscriber-only data including 📈 historical fish plant data and 🗺️ interactive maps with 📍 pins on our best spots at that location:
How To Read Fish Plant Graphs

To interpret fish plant graphs effectively, consider the following key elements:

  1. Blue Vertical Bars and Numbers:
    • Representation: The blue vertical bars on the graph represent individual fish plants.
    • Weight Measurement: The associated numbers indicate the total weight of the plants in pounds (lbs.) that occurred during a specific week.
    • Significance: Monitoring these bars helps identify weeks with higher planting activity, aiding anglers in selecting optimal times for fishing near recent plantings.
  2. Orange Trend Line:
    • Purpose: The orange trend line represents the moving average of all fish plant activities at the specified location.
    • Indicator of Activity: A rising trend line suggests a consistent increase in planting activity over the designated period. This indicates the potential for more catch opportunities and signifies a growing fish population over the weeks.
  3. Interpreting the Moving Average:
    • Upward Trend: A rising moving average implies an upward trajectory in planting activity, indicating an increasing number of fish being introduced into the area. This suggests a positive outlook for anglers, as it implies a larger and potentially more accessible fish population.
    • Downward Trend (Not Specified): The description does not provide information on the interpretation of a decreasing trend in the moving average. It might be beneficial to include information on what a decreasing trend could signify in terms of fishing prospects.
  4. No Data Present:
    • Possible Explanations: If no data is visible on the graph, it may indicate that the location had no fish plants in the last three months. Alternatively, the absence of data could be due to non-disclosure of fish plants for that location.
    • Natural Population: Some fishing areas in California rely on the natural growth of fish populations, and graphs may not show plants if this is the case.
  5. Graph Disclaimer:
    • Data Source: The graphs reflect a combination of publicly disclosed data and estimates. Some locations may disclose fish plants without specifying exact amounts.
    • Not Universal: Not all fishing areas have fish plants, and the natural growth of fish populations plays a significant role in many California fishing locations.

Understanding these elements will empower anglers to make informed decisions about when and where to fish based on historical fish plant data.

Note: If no data is present in the graph above, this location may not have had any plants the last 3 months, or may not have publicly disclosed plants. Graphs reflect both publicly disclosed data and estimates, as some locations disclose plants, but not exact amount.

🗺️ Map & Fishing Location

Types of Fish You Can Expect to Catch Here

  1. Rainbow Trout: Abundant and acrobatic, rainbow trout are the stars of Lake Edison. From rocky shorelines to island perimeters and inlets, these fish provide an exciting challenge for anglers using lures, flies, or bait.
  2. Lahontan Cutthroat Trout: Smaller yet full of fight, these native beauties thrive in shallower areas with weeds and structure, particularly in the spring and fall.
  3. Brown Trout: Less common but feisty, brown trout favor deeper waters and structures like logs and rocks. Active during mornings and evenings, they offer a thrilling experience for early risers or night anglers.
  4. Kokanee Salmon: Adding a unique dimension to the fishery, these landlocked salmon become prominent in the summer months. Trolling with lures or downriggers in open water promises an exhilarating fight.

A Glimpse into the History of Lake Edison

Situated at an elevation of 7,650 feet and fed by the cold, pure waters of Mono Creek, Lake Edison is a remote haven accessible by an extremely twisty and narrow road. It boasts a rich history as one of the most secluded lakes in California that you can drive to. The lake is stocked with fingerlings and catchable trout, including elusive giant brown trout that are best pursued during ice-out, providing a unique angling experience for those brave enough to venture onto the frozen lake.

As the road opens up post ice-out, boaters employ standard trolling techniques, reaping rewards with rainbow trout, occasional brook trout, and large brown trout. Shoreliners, willing to hike or use the hiker’s shuttle boat, find success along the north side of the lake and up towards the inlet, especially during the evening bite. With the trail connecting to the John Muir Trail, Lake Edison serves as an excellent jump-off point for hikers, offering stream-fishing access along Mono Creek.

Top 5 Tips for Anglers Fishing at Lake Edison for the First Time

  • Explore the Inlet: The area where Rush Creek enters the lake is a hotspot for hungry trout. Whether casting streamers or jigs near the mouth or trolling crankbaits further out, this location promises exciting catches.
  • Shore Fishing Secrets: Don’t underestimate the power of shore fishing. Cast towards weed beds, drop-offs, and around the dam, particularly in the early mornings and evenings. Bait, lures, and flies all prove effective.
  • Midge Magic: Tiny midges hatch in abundance throughout the summer, driving the trout into a feeding frenzy. Use tiny flies or midge emergers to mimic these insects for epic catches.
  • Respect the Dam Outflow: The water released from the dam can be strong and unpredictable. Stay clear of the area and follow posted warnings to ensure safety.
  • Rent a Boat or Kayak: While Lake Edison is relatively small, renting a boat or kayak allows you to explore hidden coves and cover more water, enhancing your overall fishing experience.

Top 5 Strategies and Tactics for Optimal Fishing at Lake Edison

  • Inlet Exploration: Target the Rush Creek inlet for hungry trout. Employ streamers, jigs, or crankbaits for an exciting angling experience.
  • Shoreline Mastery: Master the art of shore fishing by casting towards weed beds, drop-offs, and the dam. Vary your approach with bait, lures, and flies for the best results.
  • Midge Imitation: During the summer, mimic the abundant midges with tiny flies or midge emergers to entice trout into a feeding frenzy.
  • Safe Dam Fishing: While fishing directly below the dam is prohibited, focus on the surrounding areas. Cast lures or nymph near edges and structure for productive results.
  • Explore Hidden Coves: Venture into the small coves and inlets around the lake. These less-frequented spots often hold hidden treasures, especially for fly fishing away from boat traffic.

Top 5 Recommendations for Fishing Gear at Lake Edison

  • Rods: Opt for versatile, medium-weight rods suitable for diverse fishing conditions.
  • Reels: Select reels with smooth drag systems capable of handling the powerful runs of aggressive trout.
  • Lures: Pack a variety, including imitations of stoneflies, midges, and small fish to match the diverse hatch at Lake Edison.
  • Fishing Line: Use high-quality lines with sufficient strength to withstand the challenges posed by the wilderness environment.
  • Explore Our Gearlist: Visit our Gearlist account for specific recommendations on rods, reels, lures, and other gear used to maximize your fishing experience at Lake Edison.

Check out our Gearlist for the gear we use for trips like this

Embark on an angling adventure at Lake Edison, where tranquility meets the thrill of the catch. Respect the wilderness, adapt to changing conditions, and savor the magic of this secluded destination. As you cast your line into the crystal-clear waters, may you discover your own secret fishing hole and create lasting memories in this unique corner of California.

And lastly, don’t forget to check the local regulations and fishing reports. They can change depending on the season and fish populations. Respecting the rules ensures a healthy fishery for everyone.