Forget Lake Tahoe, Visit The Sierra Nevada's Lesser-Known Mountain Lake With Crystal-Clear Waters And Fishing

The Sierra Nevada Mountains are home to about 1,000 named lakes and countless other unnamed ones. Of those, Lake Tahoe is widely regarded as the best-known and most popular. Sitting at an elevation of 6,225 feet, it is the largest alpine lake in North America and the second-deepest lake in the United States. Its crystal-clear waters and scenic shoreline, along with its myriad of hotels, restaurants, and resorts, draw visitors from around the world. In fact, an estimated 15 million people head to Lake Tahoe each year. For lake lovers who enjoy solitude, those numbers likely aren't very appealing. In that case, the better option is to forget Lake Tahoe and visit a quieter alternative like Lake Sabrina, a lesser-known Eastern Sierra gem that also features crystal-clear waters, stunning scenery, and outstanding fishing, sans the crowds and commercial development.

Despite all its natural beauty, Lake Sabrina isn't actually a natural lake. Instead, it is a reservoir formed between 1907 and 1908 as part of the Bishop Creek Hydroelectric System. Covering just under 200 acres, Lake Sabrina is not particularly large. However, the array of angling options and watersport opportunities available at the lake belies its size. Situated at more than 9,000 feet, the lake features clear, deep water ensconced in towering mountains and an assortment of trees that show various foliage colors throughout the year. Adding to the serenity of Lake Sabrina is the fact that it is located within Inyo National Forest, some 20 miles from the nearest town.

Fishing is the big draw for many visitors to Lake Sabrina. Unlike some other California fisheries, this alpine lake doesn't have an expansive list of target species. However, it offers outstanding trout fishing, with brook, brown, and rainbow found in good numbers. The population of these popular trout species is augmented by regular stocking efforts as well. Beyond just numbers of trout, Lake Sabrina is also known for producing fish of impressive proportions. For example, the lake record rainbow trout weighs nearly 16 pounds, a true trophy by any standard.

Anglers can access the lake in a few different ways. Good shore access is available around most of the lake, as well as along the creek both above and below it. Anglers can also use boats to fish the deeper main lake areas and some of the more secluded coves. To that end, while the shoreline of Lake Sabrina is almost entirely undeveloped, one notable exception is Lake Sabrina Boat Landing. This facility, located near the dam, features a boat launch, store, café, and boat rentals.

When it comes to catching trout, boating anglers often spend their time trolling. Fly fishers are typically found casting various nymphs, streamers, and dry flies on the southern shoreline near the creek inflows or along the creeks themselves. There is also plenty of shore access near the dam. Trout season here runs from the last Saturday in April through mid-November. However, the lake often doesn't thaw until May, so the first few weeks of the season are typically restricted to ice fishing. 

There is plenty to do besides fishing at Lake Sabrina. During the heat of summer, swimming in the cold, clear water is a popular way to spend the day. The lake is also among the more scenic and serene places for paddle sports. Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, in particular, are popular and can be enjoyed from late spring through fall. Thanks to its typically calm conditions, Lake Sabrina appeals to paddlers of varying skill levels. Tandem kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes are available for rent at Lake Sabrina Boat Landing.

Not all the fun at Lake Sabrina takes place on or in the water. Hiking around the lake, as well as to numerous other nearby lakes, is quite popular and for good reason. The scenery is striking, whether you take a quick day hike or embark on a multi-day backcountry journey along one of the numerous trails near the lake. Given that Inyo National Forest is one of California's top destinations for fall foliage, hikers are treated to even more spectacular vistas during autumn.

Although it is fairly remote, getting to Lake Sabrina is relatively easy. From Bishop, the trendy destination for endless adventure, simply take Highway 128 west for about 20 miles. The Eastern Sierra Regional Airport (BIH) also offers limited commercial flights on a seasonal basis. Lake Sabrina is generally accessible by road from late spring through fall. Those looking to stay near the lake can camp seasonally at Sabrina Campground, which is 3 miles away and offers 18 campsites. Just a bit further away in the national forest are several campgrounds within Bishop Creek Canyon, including some of the most stunning campgrounds in the Eastern Sierras.