Don Pedro Reservoir, CA fishing report, guides, and info

Fishing at Don Pedro Reservoir, located in the Sierra Nevada foothills of California, offers anglers a rich experience with a diverse array of fish species and scenic beauty. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make the most of your fishing trip:

Key Fish Species

1. Rainbow Trout: Commonly stocked and found in cooler, deeper waters.

2. Kokanee Salmon: Prefers deep water, especially during the warmer months.

3. Largemouth Bass: Found around structures, weed beds, and in coves.

4. Smallmouth Bass: Prefers rocky areas and deeper water.

5. Spotted Bass: Frequently found in deeper parts of the lake.

6. King Salmon: Present in deeper waters, especially during spring and fall.

7. Catfish: Typically located near the bottom in coves and deeper areas.

8. Crappie: Found around submerged structures and brush piles.

9. Bluegill: Common near docks, weed beds, and shallow areas.

Best Fishing Spots

• Fleming Meadows: Excellent for bass and trout with access to deep water.

• Blue Oaks Area: Known for bass and catfish.

• Woods Creek Inlet: A prime spot for trout and bass.

• Moccasin Creek: Great for trout, particularly where the creek enters the lake.

• Middle Bay: Popular for kokanee and king salmon.

• Big Creek Inlet: Good for crappie and bluegill.

Fishing Techniques

• Trout and Kokanee Salmon: Trolling with lures such as spoons, spinners, or hoochies. Downriggers are useful for reaching deeper waters where these fish often reside.

• Bass Fishing: Use crankbaits, jigs, or plastic worms near structures and drop-offs. Topwater lures can be effective during early morning or late evening.

• Catfish: Night fishing with stink baits, chicken liver, or cut bait on the bottom.

• Crappie: Small jigs or minnows around brush piles and submerged trees.

• Bluegill: Worms or small insects near docks and weed beds.

Seasonal Tips

• Spring: Bass and trout are active near spawning grounds. Shallow water techniques are effective.

• Summer: Fish deeper for trout and bass due to warmer water temperatures. Kokanee and king salmon are deeper during this time.

• Fall: Bass and crappie move back to shallower waters. It’s a good time for topwater baits and trolling for salmon.

• Winter: Focus on deeper waters for trout and salmon, using slower presentations.

Regulations and Licensing

• Ensure you have a valid California fishing license.

• Familiarize yourself with size and bag limits for each species to comply with state regulations.

• Check for any specific local regulations or restrictions that may apply to Don Pedro Reservoir.

Additional Tips

• Weather and Water Conditions: Check weather conditions before heading out as they can affect fish behavior. Water levels can fluctuate, so be aware of current conditions.

• Gear: Bring appropriate gear for the species you are targeting. A fish finder can be very helpful for locating schools of fish in this large reservoir.

• Safety: Ensure your boat is well-equipped and that you have all necessary safety gear. Always wear a life jacket and be cautious of changing weather conditions.

Resources

• Don Pedro Lake Official Website: Provides updates on water levels, fish stocking schedules, and local regulations.

• Local Bait and Tackle Shops: Great for getting the latest fishing reports and tips on what’s working well on the lake.

Fishing at Don Pedro Reservoir offers a rewarding experience with the potential for catching a variety of fish species in a beautiful and serene environment. Happy fishing!