Heading for the California desert, Borrego Springs, for 2 months (M-I-L snowbirds there from Montana and wife is taking a sabbatical). Planning on a lot of hiking and birdwatching, but there will be times when I'd like to get out and do some fishing. Besides the ponds around the golf courses (presently unknown if I can even get on them) and some lakes up towards Palomar and Ramona, it looks like my fishing options are somewhat limited; being that we're in the desert, this is understandable. I'm considering a trip or two (depending on when certain members of the family, related by marriage, decide to drop in) up to the southern Sierras to do some camping and try for golden trout - any reasons not to make the drive? Not looking for any specific info, just a "yes", "no", "steer clear of the Donners", etc. May bring along the 9wt and head to San Diego for some surf fishing. Any info would be greatly appreciated.

Regards,
Scott