Just returned from a fishing trip on the River Trail (Aug 21-22). The trail is in rough shape. Rocky, eroded, and fallen trees across the trail. Don't even bother with a mountian bike. Fish are pretty scarce for the first few miles of the trail. About 3 miles in, the average size is around 8". All native Rainbows. I hiked to where the trail cut off to the Rincon (about 4 miles in) and stayed the night. My Uncle and I fished for two days. We managed to land some fish in the 10-12" range and I landed a solid 14" Rainbow. Also caught a 7" Brown (they still exist on the Kern). All were released, pictures are attached. These fish are still fun to catch. They fight harder than any log of a stock trout fights. Even the 6"rs will jump from the water in attempt to free itself from the tackle. After fishing the River Trail for Over 20 years, I have yet to land the "Big One". But as long as I'm physically able, I'll still be making the trip every year with the vision of hooking into that fish that sends adrenaline through your whole body and and makes you "WhooHoo" like a kid as you net it. Good luck to the rest of you.
James