San Joaquin River Kayaking

This section of the San Joaquin River refers to is the Big Bend Cove on Millerton Lake to about sixteen miles up the San Joaquin River to Squaw Leap.

San Joaquin River lies protected from the wind by steep hillsides. Along the river are several boat-in campsites, that are ideal if you are paddling with a companion or if you happen to get caught in sudden wind conditions. However, if you begin your paddle at 6am, there is a good chance you won’t get caught in strong afternoon winds. There is a minimal amount of boat traffic on the river. 

The San Joaquin River salmon run was considered to be one of the best in the country. Unfortunately, everything changed after the dam’s completion. Over the years, with the planting of the Florida strain largemouth bass, the population has steadily increased.

The river also used to have a nice population of smallmouth bass, but a number of years ago, one of the upper reservoirs was drained, which took a heavy toll on the smallmouth. If you want to catch a bass, you’ll need to fish the headwaters where the San Joaquin flows into Millerton.

This destination is for the more adventurous paddlers.

Map of San Joaquin River

  
 
 
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