Saddlebag Lake 8/23-25

 

  What are the campsites on the lake like?  I usually sleep in back of truck (Campershell) so not to concerned about having tent blow away. (EZ- tarp maybe but not tent)  Are the sites close to the water?

The campground above the lake is a bit open to the elements, but you'll have supplied water and clean, housed pit-toilets onsite... although I curse the person who decided to install metal crapper seats at that altitude - brrrrr. I watched a 5th wheel get up to the site so you shouldn't have any trouble with a camper. I don't remember there being many spots, and I think they may fill up on the weekends (there were several spots open when I arrived on Sunday afternoon). I think they may be on the small side too. But you'd be very close to the water. Wake up at 7:00 (no need to get up earlier), get some breakfast at the lodge on your way down to the lake (a 2 minute walk), and then drop a kayak in the water and enjoy the day. A pair of bald eagles will keep you company overhead. If you keep your eyes peeled, you may even see some mountain goats or bighorn sheep on the slopes surrounding you.

  Think it was an Aston DB9

Great report! I haven't been to Saddlebag since the late 80's...just realized how much I missed it.

Nice report--I am heading up there sometime this year for sure--at least once. I love the High Sierra even if the fish are lot smaller than the ocean or Bay--the scenery more than makes up for it. There are lot's of great hike-in lakes that offer great fishing including some with Goldens and Cutties--some I've fished and other at least used to according to Ralph Cutter's guidebook. I love that pooch shot. Our Springers do the same thing after they crash.

Thomas Bouyants (1/4 oz or so) in Gold with red spots are the survey winner (Rock Creek fishing forum) for Sierra Trout lake spin fishing--by far--nothing else came close and it's my go to lure from kayak, tube, or shore. Panther Martins edged them out for streams but I mostly use flies in streams anyway. From my experience, if you are going to fish flies that need a slow delicate presentation (Buggers, Carey Specials, midges, damsel nymphs, etc.), a kayak only works if there is nearly no wind or if you anchor. I once had a 12 fish morning at Crowley but only once I anchored my Neck Dolphin--for the first hour I got nothing drifting--then I anchored, lit a cigar, put my feet over the side and had the first fish on a Midge in 5 minutes. If it is windy, I always bring the float tube just in case. But frankly, I really haven't liked the lack of mobility in a float tube now that I've experienced kayak fishing--I only bring it out when the wind gives me no choice.

Think it was an Aston DB9

Looks more like a DB8 not a 9 to me--definitely Aston Martin though.

Cool report and great shot of Tex.   

Excellent report. It is helping me make my mind up for next weekend to hit the mountains and find a fun lake to explore.