Lake Isabella has increased to 51 percent of its storage capacity this week. The jig bite has slowed slightly, but anglers are still finding quality fish on 3/8- and 1/2-ounce football jigs in black and blue, paired with green pumpkin creature baits. Rapala black and blue Cleanup Craws, along with brown and purple jigs tipped with Chigger Craws, have also been producing solid bites. For numbers, drop-shotted soft plastics have been getting the job done. The crappie bite has been excellent over the past week, with anglers picking up slabs in 15 to 20 feet of water on mini jigs and live shiners. The trout bite continues to hold steady leading up to the annual derby, as the lake has received multiple plants. Trout anglers have been catching fish on trout jigs, Hook Up Baits, spinners, and garlic-doused pinched crawlers. The 35th Annual Lake Isabella Fishing Derby is scheduled for March 28 through March 30, 2026. For more information, contact Cope’s Tackle or visit KernRiverValley.com.

Contact Cope’s Tackle and Rod Shop at 661-679-6351 or check us out online at Tackle and Rod.com

Cope's Tackle and Rod Shop has the largest selection of fishing tackle in the Central Valley. We carry all the equipment from top manufactures to make your fishing trip more successful! Whether your fishing for Bluegill at a local pond or Bluefin Tuna far offshore we are your one stop shop for all your fishing needs.



Our mantra here at Cope’s is “for fishermen, by fishermen.” All our staff truly enjoy the sport and spend a lot of time helping make sure you are enjoying your time on the water. We can guarantee satisfaction when you enter our store - from tips and tricks to providing you with all the gear you will need to keep you on the water and in the game!



It is not only our goal to provide you with the right gear, we also strive to keep you informed of local events, trips, shows, and fishing opportunities.



Our price match guarantee assures each angler the opportunity to get out on the water with the best gear at the lowest price possible. We make it a point to regularly run deals and sales!


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