23 Fishing Lakes in CALIFORNIA (Serene, Picturesque, & Fun)
Are you in California and looking to have some fun?
Fishing is a great idea to consider.
Though mostly done for commercial or subsistence purposes, fishing can also be an excellent recreational activity and enjoyed as a sport.
Recreational fishing has been around for a long time, the first records of it appearing in Egypt around 2000 BC.
Like recreational hunting, it is a beautiful way to gather food while having fun.
Fishing also helps to keep you fit since it is a physical activity that works your heart, lungs, and muscles.
It is also a fantastic way to manage stress, as being near water can help reduce anxiety.
This article will guide you through 23 fishing lakes in California.
And by the way, you may also want to check out the most scenic Lakes in California.
Fishing Lakes in Los Angeles, California
1. Castaic Lake (Largest State Reservoir)
If you are in Los Angeles, look at this splendid location to go fishing.
Castaic Lake is the largest state water reservoir in Southern California and was formed by the Castaic Dam.
Located in the Sierra Pelona Mountains, it is about 1,500 feet deep and contains many different kinds of fish like largemouth and striped basses, catfish, crappie, rainbow trout, etc.
Its fishing pier is open all day and offers a range of other activities like swimming, boating, hiking, and even camping.
The lake is also close to the Castaic Lagoon, which serves as its second and lower body of water, suitable for such activities as non-power boating and canoeing.
You can easily reach this 320,000 acre.ft lake, where many of the action scenes in the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers films were shot, from Interstate 5.
Enjoy a day of fun and fishing with your family at this beautiful lake!
Address: 31540 Ridge Route Rd, Castaic, CA 91384-3358, United States
2. Belvedere Park Lake (Tranquil Urban Oasis)
This beautiful lake lies in East Los Angeles.
Covering about 1.7 acres, it is the perfect destination for fishing in the area, home to many fantastic fish species.
The park surrounding it has a tranquil environment, so you can also go on a quiet walk alone with your thoughts and enjoy the scenic environment.
Otherwise, you can participate in the myriad of outdoor activities the park has to offer.
There are benches, picnic tables, and even barbecue pits for you and your loved ones, so if you want to throw a mini party, you are also very welcome!
The park is so diverse that it even has a fitness center and exercise equipment if you wish to exercise.
You can fish from the shorelines or rent a boat to explore the water.
Address: 4914 East Cesar E Chavez Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90022, United States
3. Baldwin Lake (Historic Arboretum Location)
Baldwin Lake is another excellent destination for fishing in Los Angeles, California, with its rich history and picturesque environment.
This sag pond is located inside the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden in the San Gabriel Valley and has been referred to as the historic heart of the Arboretum.
The pond is four acres large and is fed by natural sources like stormwater and natural springs.
You will find a beautiful green meadow in the surrounding, as well as lush trees and exotic plants.
The ancient Tongva people who lived in the region for centuries originally called the pond Aleupkigna (a place of many waters.)
However, with the incursion of Spanish colonial officers into the region in the 18th century, the Tongva people were displaced, and the area was converted into an agricultural outpost.
There are many different types of fish to be caught in the pond, with rainbow trouts and largemouth and striped bass being some of the most caught species.
Address: 301 N Baldwin Ave, Arcadia, CA 91007, United States
4. Alondra Park Lake (Kayaking & Boating)
This gorgeous artificial lake is a must-visit for residents of Los Angeles!
Many tourists worldwide come to enjoy the scenic and tranquil atmosphere of the park surrounding the lake, where it gets its name.
Located in Lawnsdale, the lake is over 53 acres large, surrounded by a paved trail perfect for strolling, jogging, or biking.
In addition to fishing, Alondra Park Lake offers some other fun activities to visitors, such as kayaking and boating.
Many kinds of fish call this lake home, including common carp, channel catfish, and bass.
There are other wildlife animals like geese, ducks, turtles, etc., and you can also have fun feeding and playing with them.
You can visit this wonderful lake with your family or alone, so why not do so today?
Address: 3850 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Lawndale, CA 90260, United States
5. Lake Piru (Varied Recreational Activities)
This is another lake located in the Sierra Pelona Mountains.
Only a few minutes from I-5, it is a reservoir 165 feet deep and over 1,200 acres in size, located in the Los Padres National Forest.
The lake’s environment is breathtaking and provides many options for recreational activities like hiking and camping.
In the lake, you can enjoy, other than fishing, other water activities like boating, jet and water skiing, etc.
There are boats and other equipment to be rented at the lake’s marina, in case you didn’t bring your fishing equipment.
You can also find a convenience store, a snack bar, and even a restaurant, so you can be assured of a relaxing time.
People from far and near come to enjoy this beautiful setting; it is also a famous and beloved fishing spot for enthusiasts.
Many streams and rivers pour into this lake, which the United Water Conservation District manages.
Take a day off and go fishing at this beautiful lake; you will only have great stories to tell!
Address: 4780 Piru Canyon Road Piru, CA 93060, United States
6. Hansen Dam Lake (Artificial Lake in San Fernando)
You can also go fishing at this artificial lake in the San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles.
Hansen Dam Lake, otherwise called Hansen Dam and Reservoir, was constructed by the United States Army Corps of Engineers, Los Angeles District.
Located at the meeting point of the Big and Little Tujunga Washes, it was built to manage flooding in the area and has since become a beloved recreational spot for residents and tourists.
Around the lake is a serene park offering various outdoor activities like trailing, skating, picnicking, etc.
The park is open daily, with a playground for kids and adults.
Hansen Dam Lake is fed by natural springs and the Pacoima Wash, a major tributary of the Tujunga Wash.
This lake is about 120 acres large, and you can go swimming, boating, or fishing.
Trouts, catfishes, carps, and bluegills are fish species to be caught in the lake.
Address: 11798 Foothill Blvd, Lake View Terrace, CA 91342, United States
7. Legg Lake (Surrounded by Parkland)
Located in El Monte County in east Los Angeles, this is another excellent destination for fishing.
It is within the larger Whittier Narrows Recreational Area, which has over 1,400 acres of parkland and is just off the 60 freeway.
The lake is about 28 acres large, surrounded by a park with a 2-mile loop around the water body.
Legg Lake was named after a businessman, William Legg, who donated the land to Los Angeles County in 1920.
Many kinds of fish call this lake home, such as bluegills, crappies, breams, panfishes, etc.
And in the environment, you can find different types of wildlife animals, including turtles, ducks, and various other species of birds.
Going fishing in this lake is rewarding indeed!
You will only have great stories to tell!
Address: 750 Santa Anita Ave. South El Monte, CA 91733, United States
Also see our article on Beaches in California.
Fishing Lakes in San Diego, California
1. Lake Murray (Mission Trails Regional Park)
In San Diego, you should consider fishing at this beautiful lake within Mission Trails Regional Park.
It is a reservoir running 95 feet deep and covering an area of over 170 acres.
The construction of the Murray Dam in the 1950s, which blocked the San Diego River’s natural flow, resulted in this lake’s creation.
Since then, it has become a beloved recreational destination for residents and tourists.
You will be delighted to meet many other anglers, as fishing is prevalent here.
There are several fishing tournaments held at this lake throughout the year.
And in addition to that, many other cultural events take place at the lake, such as the LakeFest event, which happens every year in May.
Fishes such as bluegill, bass, and catfish can be caught here, and you can either fish from the shoreline or hire a boat and go deep in the water.
Address: 5540 Kiowa Drive, La Mesa, CA 91942, United States
2. Miramar Reservoir (Spectacular Mountain Views)
Miramar Reservoir is another fantastic spot to go fishing in San Diego, California.
Owned and run by the City of San Diego, it is located in the Scripps Miramar community in northern San Diego.
The reservoir is one of the features of the Miramar Lake and Recreational Area, which offers a breathtaking view of the mountains in the environment and is a popular tourist attraction.
It is a significant drinking water source for San Diego residents, constructed in 1960 with over 6,800 acres of surface area and a depth of 165 feet.
To fish in the Miramar Reservoir, purchase a permit online or at the lake office.
The recreation area around the water is open every day from morning to night but be prepared to pay a parking fee if you’ll be going in your car.
Address: 10710 Scripps Lake Drive, San Diego, CA 92131, United States
3. El Capitan Reservoir (Picturesque El Capitan Canyon)
This fishing destination has a stunning location, the El Capitan Canyon, from which it gets its name.
Deep within the Cuyamaca Mountains, it is a reservoir owned and managed by the City of San Diego’s Public Utilities Department.
It was formed by the El Capitan Dam, a 237-foot dam on the San Diego River built in 1934.
About 30 miles from San Diego, this reservoir covers about 1562 acres and can contain up to 112,800 acre-feet of water.
You will hardly find yourself alone at this location, as it is a popular tourist attraction.
People come not only to fish but also to boat, hike, and even camp.
Redear sunfish, carp, bullhead catfish, and crappie are some fish species to be caught in the reservoir.
You will have a thrilling time here, so why not visit today?
Address: 16852 El Monte Rd, Lakeside, CA 92040, United States
4. Dixon Reservoir (Escondido Fishing Spot)
Or you can head on to Dixon Reservoir in Escondido, San Diego.
This lake came into existence following the construction of the Dixon Dam in 1971.
It is named after a former manager of the City of Escondido, Robert Dixon, who was significant in developing the lake and its surrounding park.
Officially owned and operated by the City of Escondido, this lake/reservoir is an excellent destination for anyone looking to have some fun in the area—especially fishing enthusiasts.
When you visit, you will be delighted to see the picturesque environment: the hills, the verdant trees, and the serene atmosphere.
It has been used for recreational fishing since 1971, but since the State of California granted the lake an Aquaculture Permit, you no longer need a license to go fishing in the water.
Isn’t that exciting?
Hurry up and catch some fantastic fish!
Address: 1700 La Honda Drive, Escondido, CA 92027, United States
5. Lake Hodges (Recreational Haven)
This lake/reservoir is over a century old and has been a great fishing location since its inception.
It came to be with the construction of the Hodges Dam in 1918.
The dam was built on the San Dieguito River and served as a significant water source for residents of San Diego.
You can take a day off and visit the lake with your family for an excellent time.
It is around 50 kilometers from Downtown San Diego.
Along its shoreline are several parks and recreational areas to spend some real quality time, like the Lake Hodges Overlook Park, the Del Dios Community Park, and the Rancho Bernardo Community.
People come here for the views, the fresh, nature-scented air, and the myriad of recreational activities it offers.
In addition to fishing, you can also go boating, hiking, picnicking, etc.
Address: 20102 Lake Drive Escondido, CA 92101, United States
6. Lake Cuyamaca (Mountainous San Diego Setting)
Lake Cuyamaca is an artificial lake in the mountains of San Diego County, situated at around 4,620 feet above sea level.
It was created in 1888 following the construction of a dam on the South Fork of the San Diego River.
You can head out on a lovely bright day; your destination will be only two miles north of the Paso Picacho Campground.
The dam at this lake is the second-oldest in California and still a significant drinking water source for San Diego.
This lake was operated by the Lake Cuyamaca Recreation and Park District following the latter’s creation in 1960.
You can come here to fish, boat, hike, birdwatch, and even throw a wedding party!
There is a convenience store, a restaurant, and even a pub for your satisfaction!
Address: 15027 Highway 79. Julian, CA 92036, United States
Also see our article on Mountains in California.
Fishing Lakes in Fresno, California
1. Millerton Lake (Near Downtown Fresno)
For residents of Fresno, California, looking to have a great time fishing in the city, Millerton Lake provides a splendid opportunity.
This artificial lake is located near Friant town, only 15 miles from downtown Fresno.
The reservoir was created in 1942 when the Friant Dam was constructed on the San Joaquin River.
Situated in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, the lake extends over 4,900 acres, with a depth of up to 319 feet.
It is a popular recreational spot for residents and tourists alike.
You can enjoy the views, atmosphere, and myriad recreational activities.
But this lake is also central in the power generation and irrigation systems of the San Joaquin Valley.
Salmon, bass, trout, and catfish are some fish species to be found in the water.
The California Department of Water Resources manages the lake.
Address: 5290 Millerton Road, Friant, CA 93626, United States
2. Hume Lake (Recreational Paradise)
There is also Hume Lake to consider.
You can visit this popular recreational spot in Fresno not only to have a great fishing time but also to enjoy the fantastic atmosphere of its environment.
With its serene air, charming pine trees, and other natural scenery, this is a great location to kick your legs out and have fun!
The reservoir is 5,200 feet high in the Sequoia National Forest in the Sierra Nevada.
It was created in the 1900s as a water source for the Central Valley of California and covers about 87 acres.
Around the lake is a park that offers various exciting outdoor activities, like mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking, etc.
Trouts of various types (rainbow, brown, and brook) can be caught here, besides other fish species like smallmouth bass and bluegill.
Address: 64144 Hume Lake Rd, Hume, CA 93628, United States
3. Huntington Lake (Big Creek Hydroelectric Project)
This is another lake also located in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
It is an excellent choice if you want to take a break from the world and disappear into an oasis.
Situated at an elevated point of about 7000 ft, Huntington Lake is fed by waters from Southern California Edison’s Big Creek Hydroelectric Project and other streams in the area.
It was constructed in 1912, together with the Big Creek Hydroelectric Project, and is named after an American railroad magnate, Henry Edwards Huntington, who sponsored the development of the Big Creek project in its earliest days.
Around the water body is a park that offers many fun outdoor activities for visitors of all ages.
If you change your mind about fishing, you can instead go swimming, boating, and other water activities in the water.
The lake is full of trout and salmons to be caught, but because of government regulations, you can only catch between five and ten fish each day.
Address: 58910 Huntington Lake Rd Lakeshore, CA 93634, United States
4. Pine Flat Lake (Foothills Artificial Lake)
This is yet another artificial lake in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Like Millerton Lake above, it is situated at the foothills of the mountains.
It was formed when the United States Army Corps of Engineers built the Pine Flat Damon the Kings River in 1954.
With a storage capacity of about 1,000,000 acres.ft, it was initially designed to control flooding in the area.
However, it also helps with irrigation and water drainage and is a popular recreation spot for tourists and residents.
Also, since 1984 when the Jeff L. Taylor Pine Flat Power Plant was commissioned, it has been central to power generation in the area, generating about 165 Megawatts of hydroelectric power.
Some fish species found in the lake are salmon, catfish, crappie, and bluegill.
You need to have a valid state license to fish here, and you must ensure to follow all the state’s fishing rules and regulations.
So go fishing today!
Address: Pine Flat Lake, Sanger, CA 93657, United States
Also see our article on Water Parks in California.
Fishing Lakes In Oakland, California
1. Lake Temescal (Wildlife Refuge Designation)
If you are in Oakland, California, you should check out this fantastic fishing location.
Lake Temescal is a little reservoir in northeastern Oakland’s hills, named for the stream from which its water comes, the Temescal Creek.
In 1868, this stream was dammed and established as a source of drinking water for the East Bay area.
The lake was formed due to this damming and has become a significant tourist attraction in the region.
Tourists come to spend time in this beautiful oasis surrounded by lush grasses and tall trees.
The lake is home to many wildlife animals, like turtles, ducks, and geese, and provides various fish species for fishing, such as redear sunfish, bluegill, catfish, trout, etc.
There is also a beach house where you can spend the night if you wish, or have a wedding reception.
Address: 6500 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94618, United States
2. Lake Merritt (Heart of Oakland)
Visit Lake Merritt in Oakland, California, for its vibrancy.
It is in the city’s heart, surrounded by a picture-perfect park and incredible skyline views.
This saltwater lake was originally a branch of the San Francisco Bay and serves as the first official wildlife refuge in the United States, so designated in 1870.
It is about 3.4 miles wide and home to many types of wildlife animals, like over 200 species of birds and fishes, turtles, and even California sea lions that migrated there from San Francisco Bay.
So there’s a lot to interest you here!
The lake is also a cultural hub for city residents: museums and cultural centers surround the Oakland Museum of California and the African American Museum and Library.
In addition to these, you can go there to enjoy the popular restaurants, cafes, and shops.
You can rent boats and kayaks to explore the waters.
Address: 568 Bellevue Ave., Oakland, CA 94610, United States
Also see our article on Indoor Water Parks in California.
Fishing Lakes in Bakersfield, California
1. Lake Ming (Motorboat & Water-Skiing)
If you want to go fishing in Bakersfield, California, consider this lake.
Though primarily a motorboat and water-skiing lake, it is also great for fishing.
The Department of Fishing stocks it up with trouts every winter, so there are tons of that to be caught.
There are also basses and catfishes to be found here.
It is a relatively recent lake created in the 1950s by Kern County Water Agency for flood control, irrigation, and recreational activities.
Lake Ming is around 600 acres wide, surrounded by rolling hills and greenery.
Even if you don’t plan to fish, you should visit with your family to enjoy the splendid sights and many recreational activities.
If you plan to fish, though, you can either do this from the shorelines or rent a boat to explore the waters.
You won’t regret it!
Address: 13375 Lake Ming Rd, Bakersfield, CA 93301, United States
2. Hart Park Lake (Shallow Lake in Hart Park)
You can also visit this shallow lake in Hart Memorial Park, Bakersfield.
It is open to fishing all year!
The lake and its surrounding park are named after a local businessman and philanthropist, William A. Hart.
Hart Park Lake is approximately 30 acres in size, and you can rent a boat to explore the entire breadth of the water.
The park around the lake is great for many recreational activities, and there are several barbecue pits and picnic areas to hang out in with friends and family.
It also offers a great hiking trail with a breathtaking landscape view.
Seriously, the environment will take your breath away!
Many people go there to watch birds, as Hart Park Lake is home to some beautiful bird species and other animals.
The environment is peaceful; you can fish or explore the water from the shores.
Address: 2900 Manor St, Bakersfield, CA 93308, United States
Also see our article on Waterfalls in California.
Fishing Lakes in Santa Barbara
1. Lion Canyon Creek (Popular Hiking Trail)
If you are in Santa Barbara, you should visit this excellent fishing location!
This creek flows through the Los Padres National Forest.
You may already know of the Lion Canyon Trail, a popular hiking trail that follows the creek through the forest and mountains.
This trail is about 6.5 miles on a round trip, and it offers fantastic views as you go.
Fishing in this creek is an unforgettable experience you want to share with loved ones.
Trouts are the most common fish, with many species, like the rainbow and brown trouts.
The California Department of Fish regulates fishing in Lion Canyon Creek, so you need a fishing permit there.
There is enough time to plan a trip, as the fishing season usually falls between April and November.
Go fishing at Lion Canyon Creek today!
Address: 3505 Paradise Rd. Santa Barbara, CA 93105, United States
2. Lake Cachuma (Home to Various Fish Species)
Go and have the time of your life fishing at Lake Cachuma!
The lake covers an area of about 3100 acres, boasting a variety of fish such as rainbow trout, largemouth bass, catfish, bluegill, etc.
Many campgrounds are around the lake, so you can also go with your family and your camping gear and plan to camp.
You will also find many spectacular trails in the area perfect for hiking, like the Lakeview Trail and the Santa Ynez River Trail.
Lake Cachuma came to exist following the 1953 construction of the Bradbury Dam by the United States Bureau of Reclamation.
It gets its name ‘Cachuma’ from a Native American Village in the area.
You may be lucky to run into the University of California’s rowing team, as they often go there to practice.
Unfortunately, you won’t be able to swim or water ski because this body contact activities like these have been banned.
Nevertheless, you will have a fantastic time fishing, so hurry now!
Address: 2225 Highway 154, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, United States
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