Hello everyone. I am new to this forum, but have enjoyed looking through old threads for the good information y'all post.
I grew up in Michigan boat fishing for bass, bluegill, and pike. From 2008-13 I lived in CO and learned to fly fish the river that ran through the canyon near town (Fort Collins), but also fished some mountain lakes in Rocky Mountain NP. Now I live in LA and visit Mammoth from time to time, mostly to ski, but visited for the first time in the summer last year. My wife and I scoped out good campsites in the basin last summer and will be at the Coldwater Campground From July 16-22. I'm bringing my fly-fishing gear, but also just got some small poles for my kids (age 5, 7, 9) to use so that I can give them their first real fishing experience.
I have a few questions and perhaps some of you may be able to help me.
1) Mary Lake is within walking distance to our campground, so we're going to go there and fish from shore. Is it better to fish the north side or the south side (or east or west)? From Google Earth the lake appears to be shallow on the east end. And is it a good idea to bring waders and go into the water a bit from shore?
2) Are there any spots in the Basin I shouldn't miss for fly-fishing? I got the impression from other threads that Mammoth Creek is good, even through town. I don't have a float tube.
3) We're going to spend some time hiking up to the other lakes above the campground. Is it worth bringing a fishing pole with me?
I looked at the schedule for fish plants and it seems this area gets stocked pretty well so that's promising. I also plan to stop at a couple fishing shops in Mammoth to buy whatever lures or bait they recommend there.
Thanks for any advice you can offer. I'll post pictures afterwards if I get some good ones.