Lost River Camps

San Gabriel River, East Fork, Heaton Flat Camping and Fishing?

I am going to camp and fish at Heaton Flat, San Gabriel East Fork. Can any give me advise where to fish and what to expect from both fishing and camping experience. I have some experience at salt water fishing, but fresh water fishing is new to me. Advise? Plus, i am taking my first fly fishing rod with me. Advise for fly fishing at the San Gabriel River Eask Fork. Also, what are the rules and limits for taking different species of fish. Thank you.

Public Comments

1. I've never fished the river itself but I have had good luck fishing a stream that feeds into it about 8 or 9 miles upstream. You are going to have alot of competion with gold miners in the river. It is a popular recreational mining area. Bring a pan. I've had some luck panning the gravels. I even found one piece I could pick up and hold.
2. I would recommend not going. There have been too many "events" there to consider it even reasonably safe. If you do go, have a min of one knowledgeable companion with you. If you've got street smarts, keep 'em handy. Don't forget to register at the ranger station and get your passes. Tell a family member or friend when to expect your return. Go to CA DFG's site for fishing rules & regs. If you own a handgun AND are skilled/comfortable using it, you may decide you want to pack it along, too. The SGR probably won't be much of an experience for you. If you're local, fine. If not, it's your gas. Have fun, be safe, and pack some other trash out with you.
3. You'll probably be entertained by the leftover DFG stock trout. Yes, if you do have a weapon, take it. Definetly tell a ranger where you will be at. Good luck!