north moklumne river question.

[troutbm]

I've never been there but plan to try it this weekend. Question is would one want to fish above or below salt springs reservoir ? Might stay near hermit vally off hwy 4, Or off what I think is highland lakes road I think its also forest service road 8n01 to bloomfeild meadows. Also notice grouse creek and possible beaver ponds ? Any info. is greatly appriciated. P.M's welcome.

[El Rey]

You'll come across the NF Moke on Hwy 4 above, or at?, Hermit Valley. It's a small stream up there, and it meanders through a nice, buggy--read mosquito infested, meadow. Lots of little willing fish. If you want to fish downstream on the Moke from Hwy 4, it's a pretty brutal hike with no real trails, but the fishing is better.

Or, take the road to Highlands Lakes just before the summit. After a few miles it will rejoin the stream. Lots of places to stop and fish for small willing trout--some reach 8" to 10" if you're lucky. I think there are USFS campgrounds somewhere along that road, but I'm not sure.

If you want more adventure, continue up the road to the Highlands Lakes. They're pretty open, barren, and subject to lots of wind, but they do have fish. One lake drains into the NF Moke, the other into Highland Creek. For a real workout hike down Highland Creek as far as you can manage. It's wild. Remember, you have to hike back up, unless you want to pack in all the way to Spicer Resvr--a long trip, and you'll need a shuttle.

When I was a Boy Scout at Camp Wolfeboro back in the 50's that area was our Trek destination. Been back a few times, but then I'm not 30 anymore--hell, I'm not even 60 any more. I stick to the roadside fishing on the NF Moke for my fun. Beautiful country and not too popular. (I hope this report doesn't result in crowds of people there.)

Enjoy,
El Rey