Big Bear is good along the north shore. Spots by Stanfield Cutoff, Serano Campground, the public launch ramps, the observatory and Red House are all good for soaking bait, throwing spoons or trout jigs.
For bait, the usual suspects. Power Bait and crawlers both work.
Spoons; Thomas Buoyant, Kastmasters, Jakes Spin-O-Lure and Super Duper work great.
Trout jigs are just plastic crappie jigs with a trout power worm tail. This combo can be killer especially by the dam in the warmer months.
If you have a boat, trolling is very productive.
Try pulling Needle fish, Super Dupers or any trout spoon on lead core. Trolling small Countdown Rapalas on light mono (4lb) can produce some monsters.
For almost guaranteed fish, I would hit Jess Ranch Lakes. Big trout, clean facilities in a very friendly environment. Plus they have a Skunk pond. If you don't have a fish by the end of the day you're allowed 1 fish per angler in the Skunk pond. Cost is about 20 per adult and 15 per child. 5 fish limit for adults and 3 fish limit for kids. If I remember correctly. Excellent place to introduce kids to trout fishing.