5 Best Fishing Lakes in California
Last Updated on August 7, 2024 by Boatsetter Team
California’s diverse landscapes and climates offer anglers a treasure trove of fishing opportunities. From the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe to the bass-rich reservoirs of Southern California, the Golden State’s lakes are a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. Whether you’re after trophy trout or hard-fighting bass, California’s lakes have something for every angler. Let’s explore some of the best fishing lakes in California, where you can cast a line and potentially make your own mark in the state’s rich fishing history.
Lake Tahoe
From May to September, anglers flock here for the chance to land a trophy-sized catch. Lake Tahoe’s deep, cold waters are rife with Mackinaw trout, rainbow trout, and brown trout. The lake gained national attention in 1975 when angler Robert Aronsen caught a 37-pound Mackinaw trout, a state record that stood for over 40 years. Book a guided fishing experience to learn how to “troll with downriggers,” a popular fishing technique here, allowing anglers to target fish at specific depths (where award-winning Mackinaws lurk).
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Clear Lake
Often called the “Bass Capital of the West,” Clear Lake is renowned for its exceptional largemouth bass fishing. This natural, shallow lake consistently produces big bass, with many anglers reporting catches in the 5-10 pound range. Clear Lake’s unique ecosystem and abundant food sources contribute to the impressive growth rates of its bass population. The lake’s official record for largemouth bass stands at 17.52 pounds, caught in 1990 by Jerry Basgal. The lake also offers excellent crappie and catfish fishing, providing diverse opportunities for anglers year-round.
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Shasta Lake
As California’s largest reservoir, Shasta Lake offers diverse fishing opportunities for bass, trout, and salmon. Shasta’s numerous arms and coves provide ample structure for fish, making it an exciting challenge for anglers. Spring and fall are prime seasons for bass fishing, while trout and salmon can be targeted year-round in the lake’s cooler, deeper waters.
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Don Pedro Reservoir
Located in the Sierra Nevada foothills, Don Pedro Reservoir is a fishery known for its excellent bass, trout, and kokanee salmon fishing. The lake’s deep, clear waters and numerous submerged trees provide ideal habitat for a variety of fish species. Spotted bass fishing has gained popularity here, with many anglers reporting quality catches. The reservoir’s kokanee salmon fishery has also seen increased interest in recent years, offering a unique opportunity to target these landlocked salmon.
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Lake Oroville
Known as the best fishing lake in California, this lake hosts several pro fishing tournaments a year. With several record breaking catches, by locals and pros including a 97-pound white sturgeon in 1989, a trophy catch is possible for all anglers no matter their experience level. The lake is home to both largemouth and spotted bass. Plan a fishing trip for the spring or fall as it tends to be productive seasons for bass fishing here.
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California’s fishing lakes offer an incredible array of angling opportunities, from the trophy trout of Lake Tahoe to the monster bass of Clear Lake. Whether you’re chasing state records or simply enjoying a day on the water, these lakes showcase the best fishing in California. So pack your gear,
rent a fishing boat in California, and set out to create your own fishing legacy in the Golden State’s pristine waters.
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