Hensley Lake offers a broad range of aquatic
activities. All boating is permitted as well as
water and jet skiing and paddling. This
widespread lake is located in the foothills
northeast of the town of Madera, 6-miles north of Millerton Lake.
The diverse terrain provides a stunning
array of scenic splendors to explore,
especially in the three coves along the
southeastern side of the lake.The coves are
accessible from a free boat launch located
off of Buck Ridge Road, which is an ideal
location for novice paddlers. It is also one
of the prettiest areas on the lake. Buck
Ridge Day Use Area is located directly on
the shore of Hensley Lake and surrounded by
the oak woodlands of the Sierra Nevada
foothills, offering a mixture of sun and
shade.
Hensley Lake is a good place for those
looking to do some fishing for largemouth
bass.Many kayak anglers consider Hensley
Lake to be a premier bass fishery. The lake
also holds a good population of crappie,
sunfish and bluegill as well as rainbow
trout.
With water releases for irrigation being
made at Hensley Lake, the lake’s water level
is decreasing. This can create problems and
challenges for boaters. Dropping water
levels means that more rocks and shallow
areas are being exposed every day, and less
water for paddling. Thankfully, California
got some much needed rain this year.
Map of Hensley Lake
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