I don't know the rules for where you're talking about in the Sierras (Golden Trout Wilderness?), but I would guess that there might be special regulations in place, like flies & lures only. Daisy's suggestion of the bubble & fly is good one, you can cover a lot of water with that set-up. Lures work also, but I've found them to be most effective early in the season.
If you're talking about fishing moving water, fly fishing would definitely be your best bet.