Goodbye Big Bear Lake, So Long Lake Tahoe: This Crystal-Clear Fishing Paradise Offers Uncrowded Mountain Beauty

Both Big Bear Lake and Lake Tahoe are known for their scenic mountain landscapes and clear waters. Each lake is also renowned as an excellent angling destination. However, they are also both known for drawing big crowds. With that in mind, fishermen looking to cast a line into scenic, crystal-clear waters but who want to avoid crowds while they enjoy nature should venture to Florence Lake instead. In fact, for anglers who value solitude over amenities and relish a little adventure along the way, Lake Florence is an idyllic fishing paradise.

Situated within the Sierra National Forest, Florence Lake was formed by placing a dam across the South Fork of the San Joaquin River. It is considered a strong fishery, particularly for big brown trout. The lake also offers scenery on par with that of Big Bear Lake and Lake Tahoe, including clear water surrounded by a dramatic landscape of towering trees and mammoth mountain peaks. However, the ruggedly beautiful surroundings are also largely the reason why the lake doesn't draw more visitors. Kaiser Pass Road, which leads to the lake, is narrow, rough, and not inviting for those driving RVs or pulling travel trailers.

Additionally, while camping is allowed, there are no developed campgrounds on the lake. So, anglers wishing to overnight are limited to primitive tent camping in first-come, first-served sites to which one has to hike or boat. There is, however, a seasonal campground along the San Joaquin River just above the lake that can be reached by car. Jackass Meadows Campground is open from June through September and features campsites with picnic tables, fire rings, and bear-proof lockers. The campground also has vault toilets. Campers will also have the option of purchasing supplies at the Florence Lake Store on the north end of the lake, which is open from late spring through mid-September.

Covering less than 1,000 acres, Florence Lake is not large. However, thanks to the sparse crowds, anglers have plenty of room to roam. There are over 8 miles of shoreline wrapping around the deep, clear, trout-filled waters. Additionally, anglers can shore launch paddle craft. There is also a boat ramp on the north end of the lake, and the Florence Lake Store offers boat rentals. During summer, boatless anglers who don't wish to walk the length of the lake's shoreline can also hop on the ferry that runs from the store to a landing near the dam.

When it comes to fishing, big brown trout are the headliners in Florence Lake. However, rainbow trout also thrive in the cold, clear waters of this high-altitude lake, as do brook trout. The best fishing is typically found on either end of the lake, in the deeper water near the dam on the northern end or near the mouth of the river on the southern side. However, enthusiasts can experience good fishing at times along much of the shoreline. Anglers can also fish in the river itself, both above and below the lake. Although many visitors come to Florence Lake to fly fish for trout, spin fishermen can also do quite well.

Because it is deep in the national forest, Florence Lake is a long drive from anywhere. The simplest way is to join up with CA-168 in Clovis (a charming California getaway in its own right), and head northeast until you reach Kaiser Pass Road just past Huntington Lake (another under-the-radar mountain lake in California). From there, just follow Kaiser Pass Road until it hits Florence Lake Road, which leads to the picnic area on the north end. Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT), located about 15 minutes outside of Clovis, is the closest commercial airport.