West Fork – San Gabriel River
This is a tailwater fishery that flows from Cogswell Reservoir eastward about 8 miles to its confluence with the North and East forks at Highway 39, approximately 12 miles north of Azusa. It is a relatively small stream; 20 to 30 ft across in most places. A service road, open to hikers and cyclists, parallels the stream from the highway to the reservoir. The section upstream from the second bridge (about 1 1/2 miles from the parking area) to the reservoir is under special regulations: zero limit, artificial flies or lures with single barbless hooks only. The stream is open for fishing all year.
Equipment
A light rod (2 to 5 wt) rigged with a floating line and leader tapered to 5X or 6X will work just fine.
Most trout fly patterns will work. Best bets are Adams Parachute (16, 18), Elk Hair Caddis w/dark body (16, 18), BWO Parachute (16, 18), Humpy / Red or Yellow (16, 18). Others to try are EC Caddis (16, 18), Black Ant (16, 18), Royal Trude (16, 18), Stimulator (14, 16).
Bring insect repellant (the black flies can be vicious), polarized sun glasses and sunscreen.
Waist high waders are OK most places or you can wet wade.
Water, snacks and/or lunch are essential for a full day of fishing.
Getting There
From the San Fernando Valley, drive east on I-210 to Azusa. Exit at Hwy 39, turn left and cross under the freeway. Drive north through Azusa about 4 miles, then up San Gabriel Canyon Road (Hwy 39) another 8 miles. Parking is located on the left side of the road just north of the highway bridge that crosses over the West Fork. You will need an Adventure Pass to park. There are picnic tables and restrooms adjacent to the parking area. The service road on the south side of the stream is accessed via a footbridge from the parking area.