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High above the urban sprawl of Los Angeles are tiny mountain creeks, holding wild rainbow trout. They are few in number, small, and undeniably striking in a myriad of colors. Despite drought, habitat destruction, harvest by uneducated humans, and a host of other challenges, they continue to survive in stream pockets and pools off the beaten path. How much longer will these creeks continue to hold such beautiful finned treasures?  For Southern California  Oncorhynchus mykiss , catch and release fishing is the option for ethical anglers. 

Flows were low but still consistent on this wild stream deep in the Southern California mountains. We landed several beautiful brown trout from crystal-clear pools    Photos and video with BlackVue Sport Action Camera All trout were released safely.  Until next time! Video:

Took a little hike to the East Fork of the San Gabriel River. Fortunately, the water was flowing well, despite the recent drought. Unfortunately, the trash and destruction wrought by weekend crowds and careless gold prospectors still peppered the shoreline. I also could not find any trout, no wonder given the poor state of the stream. Did manage to land a tiny (or large for his usual size?) Arroyo Chub while fishing for trout. He was safely released, as seen in the following video of the trip. Tight lines!

Recently, I fished Lost Lake in the Cajon Pass, near Highway 215 in California. This little sag lake, in a fault line, is very, very deep. It is spring fed and has crystal clear water.   Video The fish were very wary and shoreline access was limited. However, between my friend and I, we managed to land 3 largemouth and one bluegill. It's a very odd lake that feels out of place amidst the dry scrub brush and nettles.

Went hiking and exploring the San Gabriel River for new spots. The weather was a little chilly, by California standards, but the clear skies made up for the cold. We found plenty of interesting water, including deep pools and bends, but no fish. Perhaps in the coming months these spots will be worth returning to. Still, it wasn't a bad trip, as the fantastic scenery is a testament to! Check the video below as well for a better idea of the variety of locations we scouted.