Fishing Bucks Lake In Northern CA

AKA: Upper & Lower Bucks Lake

Popular Fish Species
Bucks Lake Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Fishing Boat Rentals
Marinas
Local Fishing Guides
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Bucks Lake, CA

Popular Fish Species Bucks Lake, CA

Rainbow Trout Fishing

Although fishing for mackinaw and kokanee salmon is popular here, fishing for rainbow trout here gets more attention from weekend anglers. Worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors all can catch trout in Bucks Lake. Use the lightest fishing line for the best possible results, based on conditions. Continual stocking by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife has helped to maintain a good population of rainbow trout. While fishing from a boat is often the preferred method, plenty of trout are caught here by anglers fishing from the bank. Additionally, floating or sinking flies, such as nymphs, streamers, or dry flies, are popular choices for fly anglers targeting rainbow trout. Trolling with lures or flies behind a boat, casting near shoreline structures, or still fishing with bait can all yield success. Adjusting lure size, color, and retrieve speed can enhance chances of enticing these colorful and spirited fish.

Brook Trout Fishing

Brook trout thrive in cool, clear, well-oxygenated water. Clean inflows of water are prime areas to fish. Fishing for brook trout in Bucks Lake is popular due to the abundance and size of these tasty brookies. Brookies are most actively feeding at dawn, and again at dusk. Brook trout feed on plankton, worms, leeches, insects, mollusks, and small baitfish. They spawn in the Fall, rather than the Spring, and they are quite prolific spawners. Other times they tend to move deeper and are more difficult to locate. Brook trout can be easily caught on minnows, flies, small spinners, worms, maggots and wax worms.

Brown Trout Fishing

Currently, fishing for brown trout in Bucks Lake is delivering some nice catches. These hearty fighters migrate around the lake in search of baitfish and comfortable water temperatures, preferably in the 50 to 62 degree range. In spring brown trout, along with the baitfish, move to the shallows which warms first. As the days get warmer in summer they move deeper, again following schools of bait. As Fall and Winter arrive, browns tend to stay in deeper water. When these trout move deep, it is typically in the 20- to 45-foot range. Nightcrawlers are always a good bait for brown trout. In-line spinners, bait-colored crankbaits and small spoons are other options. Experiment with depth and retrieve speed.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for rainbow trout, brook trout, brown trout, lake trout and kokanee salmon at Bucks Lake in California.

Bucks Lake Fishing Video

Terrific trout and kokanee fishing draws anglers from near and far to Bucks Lake, a 1,800 acre lake in the north central part of California, 50 miles west of Chico. Big lake trout (Mackinaw over 16 pounds), plentiful rainbow, brook and brown trout, and kokanee salmon thrive in the cool, clear water of this fertile fishery.

Bucks Lake, nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of Northern California, is a picturesque destination that offers excellent fishing opportunities for anglers of all levels. The lake is known for its pristine waters and abundance of fish species, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. One of the primary game fish species found in Bucks Lake is the rainbow trout. These trout thrive in the cold, clear waters of the lake and provide exciting angling action. Anglers can try their luck by casting from the shore, trolling with lures or bait, or fly fishing to entice these beautiful trout.

Aside from rainbow trout, Bucks Lake is also home to brown trout, kokanee salmon, and smallmouth bass. Brown trout, known for their elusive nature, offer a rewarding challenge for anglers seeking a bit of excitement. Kokanee salmon, a landlocked variation of sockeye salmon, are prized for their fighting ability and delicious taste. Smallmouth bass, with their strong fighting spirit, are sought after by anglers looking for some bass fishing action.

In addition to fishing and camping, Bucks Lake offers opportunities for swimming, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The surrounding forests and trails provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration.

With its stunning natural beauty, diverse fishery, and range of recreational activities, Bucks Lake is a haven for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts in California. Whether you're casting for trout, targeting salmon or bass, or simply enjoying a tranquil camping experience, Bucks Lake offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

The lake has seventeen miles of shoreline, much of which is private property, but there is still plenty of room at numerous places around the lake for fishing from the bank. Boating access is via boat launch ramps at Sandy Point Day Use Area, Bucks Lake Marina, Lower Bucks Campground, Bucks Lakeshore Resort and Haskins Valley Family Campground.

Primary fish species residing in Bucks Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Bucks Lake Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a popular activity at Bucks Lake, and anglers can take advantage of the calm waters to explore the lake and access prime fishing spots. The lake offers boat rentals and has multiple boat ramps available for easy launching. Whether you prefer a fishing boat, kayak, or pontoon boat, Bucks Lake provides ample space for boating enthusiasts to enjoy their time on the water.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Bucks Lake Marina
Rentals: Fishing boats, kayaks and pontoons
530 283-4243

Marinas

Bucks Lake Marina
16469 Bucks Lake Rd
Quincy, CA 95971
530 283-4243

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Bucks Lakeshore Resort Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, off Bucks Lake Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and limited parking.

Sandy Point Day Use Area and Boat Launch
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, off Highway 33, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp paved parking.

Fishing Guides On Bucks Lake

Big Daddy's Guide Service - trout, salmon

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

Fishing License

Click here for a California fishing license.

Camping is another popular activity at Bucks Lake, with several campgrounds nestled along its shores. These campgrounds offer a range of camping options, from tent camping to RV camping, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the serene natural surroundings. Camping near Bucks Lake provides anglers with the convenience of staying close to the fishing action and enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the area.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Bucks Lake Marina RV Park & Campground - 530 283-4243

Bucks Lake Camp & RV Park - 530 283-2221

Haskins Valley Family Campground - 916 386-5164

Sundew Campground - 707 799-4453

Lower Bucks Campground - 530 283-0555