Rex Emerson
Special to the Sun

With the Isabella Lake Fishing Derby fast approaching, there is a lot of work being done to make this the best event ever.

Earlier this week, a second delivery of Alpers trout were brought to Isabella Lake. Prior to the derby, the Kern River Valley Chamber of Commerce plans to have two more truckloads of Alpers trout planted in the lake.

At right, Les Johnson, volunteer with Lake Isabella Fish and Game Habitat Club, assists in the delivery of 1,200 pounds of Alpers trout on Jan. 27, for the 21st annual Isabella Lake Fishing Derby. Fred and Elaine Roach round up those that appear to be a bit lake-shy.

Since November, volunteers from the Fish & Game Habitat Club and the community, have been feeding and watching over the trout that will be released prior to the start of the derby.

As of today, those wishing to register for the 21st Annual Isabella Lake Fishing Derby, can do so by going to our website: http://derby.kernrivervalley.com

The U.S. Forest Service also announced on Jan. 29 that the boat dock at Launch 19, located on the west side of Engineer Point at Lake Isabella will be removed for repairs on Friday, Feb. 12. It is necessary to make these repairs for public safety and to prepare for the upcoming Isabella Lake Fishing Derby. It is expected to have the dock repaired and operational by Monday, March 1.

Repairs include; general maintenance, replacing strapping that holds the float under the dock, replacement of bolts to secure the metal handrails, and replace all 10 cleats on the dock.

During the last two months, Forest Service personnel have repaired three docks located at the South Fork Recreation Area, Old Isabella Road and Tillie Creek. With no water near the Tillie Creek campground this dock remains on high ground. However it will be back up and operational when the water level of Isabella Lake rises. With the low lake level, South Fork Recreation Area and Old Isabella Road will be the only boat docks available while Launch 19 is being repaired.

The Forest Service appreciates the public’s patience while these necessary repairs are being completed, said Geri Adams, of the Forest Service.

What is an Alpers?

Alpers trout aren't just any fish. They’re hand-fed and raised in the streams and ponds of Alpers Owens River Ranch in Mammoth Lakes. Alpers trout average 2 to 3 pounds and are prized trophies sought by anglers.

In the family since 1906, the Alpers Owens River Ranch was originally a cattle ranch. It was converted into a fishing ranch in the 1920s. During the '70s and '80s, Tim Alpers and his father raised fish primarily to stock their family ponds.

Today, raising trout is Alper's primary occupation. Local and private funding helps stock over 60,000 pounds of Alpers trout in lakes and streams from southern Inyo County to northern Mono County.

"Alpers trout are exclusive to the Eastern Sierra. These are

fish raised on the bounty of the Eastern Sierra to benefit the local economy. You won't find these trout anywhere else in the world," Alpers said.