I've worked in Bakersfield for close to 2 1/2 years now off and on and have never fished the Kern even though it's right outside of town. I'll have to pack a rod next time I fly out. Nice looking fish. How is the lower Kern? I've had several sport injuries so hiking 10 miles is not my cup of tea. The lower Kern right off 178 looks like it would be a lot easier to fish.