Isabella
Lake ...

Welcome to
Isabella Lake, one of the largest reservoirs in Southern California with
over 11,000 surface acres. From fishing to boating, camping to picnicking,
the lake offers one of the best fresh-water recreation experiences in
close proximity to Los Angeles and Bakersfield year –round. Elevation
ranges from2,500 to 2,600 feet and fishing is open year round. All
developed campgrounds and group camping areas operate under a
concessionaire program with California Land Management (CLM). Please
contact the Lake Isabella Visitor Center listed in the Government section
for further information.Boat
Permits ...
Annual Isabella Lake boat permits
are required and available at all marinas. See lake map for locations. See business
listings for telephone numbers.
Marinas ...
Lake Isabella has three marinas for
your convenience. Each offers a variety of goods from food, sodas and snacks, to boat, jet
ski and fishing equipment rental, fishing licenses, and boat permits, as well as slip
rentals available at long term or short term rates. The marinas are open year round from
sunrise to sundown.
Boat Ramps ...
Most small boats can be launched
just about anywhere around the lake. Larger, heavier ones should use the paved ramps
located by the marinas and close to the Visitors Center.
Campsites ...
Some come and camp with a
tent (that’s me), some drive up to the shore with a motor home and state
"we’re here". Both enjoy the bliss of camping out and listening to a
crackling fire at night.
Fishing
Licenses ...
Fishing licenses are a necessity
for anyone over 15 years of age wanting to enjoy the popular sport and are available at
selected locations throughout the valley including bait and tackle stores, marinas,
markets, and mini-marts.
Boating
- Power ...

With an estimated 38 miles of
shoreline and over 11,000 surface acres, there is plenty of room on Isabella Lake for
powerboats of all kinds. Fishing, skiing or just enjoying the scenery from a boat is one
relaxing way to spend the day. |
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Boating
- Sailing ...
The colorful
sails can be seen from most anywhere around the lake. Sailboats are a joy
to watch as they’re maneuvered through the waters of Isabella Lake and
the afternoon winds make it the perfect place to enjoy the peace and quiet.
Jet Skiing
...
Jet skiing has become an
increasingly popular sport on Isabella Lake. Watercraft enthusiasts can test their skill
during the races held on the lake.Water
Skiing ...
Water skiing on Isabella Lake is a
wet and wild sport enjoyed by many visitors and residents. The refreshing waters on the
lake make for great water play. Skiing is allowed in designated areas.
Swimming ...
The cool waters of Isabella Lake
are tempting and inviting. Swimming is allowed and two swimming locations are recognized
on the lake, but neither of these locations is marked. Check with the U.S. Forest Visitors
Center for a map showing the areas. Safety comes first so swimmers should stay within 300
feet of the shoreline and always wear a flotation device.
Ride the Wind ...
Steady winds in the afternoon on
Isabella Lake provide an ideal situation for sailboarders. Brilliant splashes of colors
decorate the lake near the dam on a regular basis.
Hunting -
Shooting ...
From deer and bear to birds and rabbits hunters find the Kern River Valley the place on
which to set their sights. Approximately 10,000 deer tags are filed each year. Turkey,
pheasants, quail, duck,
dove, and chucker are abundant around the shores of the lake.
Hook a Fish
...
Open year
round, fishing Isabella Lake is ranked as a top bass lake in California.
It’s deep, cool waters invite fishing enthusiasts to exercise their
skill. Each year Isabella Lake hosts a trout fishing derby with more than
$60,000 in prizes offered. The grand prize of $10,000 goes to the lucky
angler who catches " Bucky Finn" during the three day event.
Either from the shore, or in a boat, the fish are here and the lake is
stocked on a regular basis. Take a look at the
fish and find out the lake records, where their favorite hiding places are or what kind of
bait attracts them. "Always check the latest Fish & Game regulations"
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