Fishing with kiddos

[fishdad]

Hi everyone, I'm new to this site.  I started an annual trip with my boys last year up to the Eastern Sierras.  I'm planning on taking them over to Rock Creek since I've hears such great things about it, but I don't know the area real well.  My boys are 7 and 4 and any suggestions on best places in that area to get them on the fish would be much appreciated.  I've heard the little lakes valley is nice, but not sure if it will be too much of a hike for the little guy. 

thanks again

[TEX]

Welcome to the board!  Thanks for asking; there is quite a Bit of knowledge here; and sure more will chime in.
You can drive right up and part at RCL. Fishing the outlet is right there and can be real productive. Now; as far as what you use and have the time/patience for is another consideration. Bait: power bait and nightcrawlers work well. As far as lures, the normal Kastmasters, super dupers etc. A red/gold Thomas Bouyant works very well if they especially the 7y.o. can handle cast and retrieve.  There are snags close to shore though.
BTW I assume it's a car camping trip and not a backpacking trip?

[wshawkins]

Little Lakes Valley is the major draw for most folks, so get to Mosquito Flats trailhead parking early as it fills up quickly.  My daughters started hiking on their own at 4 or 5 years of age (mostly).  If not, they would get a free ride on dad’s strong shoulders. 

The good news is the lakes with fish are not that far!  The first lake out of Mosquito Flats is Mack Lake at 0.5 mile, Marsh Lake is about 1.0 mile and family favorite Heart Lake is about 1.20 miles.  There is one hill that’s called “Crank Case Grade” where it may slow down your boys a little.  You’ll catch mostly Brook Trout in these waters, but Rainbow and some Brown Trout are present too.

Of course you can just drive to Rock Creek Lake and fish along the shoreline just about anywhere for larger trout if the hike up Little Lakes Valley doesn’t pan out.  The possibilities are endless.  Have fun!

[fishdad]

Thank you both for your comments. I think the boys can handle a short adventure (dad is really wanting one).  I was looking at Mack lake and looks pretty close so we may have to hit that up in addition to the rcl.

Thanks again!

[playingmenace]

Mack is easy to hike right on by, as it's not visable from the trail.

Marsh is the next lake, is really close and extremely scenic. May not be the best to fish as it's surrounded by reeds, but a great pic spot with the head wall in the back ground.

Enjoy your trip!

[damer419]

The LLV trail is perfect for kids......last year my 3.5 year old and my 5 year old hiked all the way to Heart Lake and back by themselves. We fished a lil but wont bring our rods next time. The kids had way more fun fishing the creek in our campground and at the inlet at the lake. That Canyon is special. I am a relative Newbie only been going past 4 years, but try and go 2-3 trips a year. Started when my boys were 2.5 and 1.5 years old. They love it.

When will you be up there?

[fishdad]

The LLV trail is perfect for kids......last year my 3.5 year old and my 5 year old hiked all the way to Heart Lake and back by themselves. We fished a lil but wont bring our rods next time. The kids had way more fun fishing the creek in our campground and at the inlet at the lake. That Canyon is special. I am a relative Newbie only been going past 4 years, but try and go 2-3 trips a year. Started when my boys were 2.5 and 1.5 years old. They love it.

When will you be up there?

Hi, thanks for your advice.  We plan to be up mid August.  I can't wait!  We only have a day and a half so we may just stick to the lake and creek as you said. 

Thanks again for everyone's advice!

[saudust]

fishdad, don't forget that the altitude at Rock Creek Lake takes some time to get used to before the little guys start trekking.  I'll just bet your anticipation is ramping up!