Fishing San Luis Reservoir In Central CA
AKA: San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area
Popular Fish Species San Luis Reservoir, CA
Striped Bass Fishing
If you enjoy catching big fish, come fish for striped bass at San Luis Reservoir. The stripers are plentiful, run in schools and can grow to bragging size. In Spring and Fall work the upper end of the lake where water is flowing into the lake. Look for deeper water in the river channel, as a holding place for stripers. In Summer and Winter, stripers hang out in deeper water during the day Morning often draws the stripers to much shallower water, look for them from the surface down to around the 20-foot range as they feed on shallow-running schools of bait. The lake is filled with plenty of baitfish and sunfish to to keep the fishery thriving. Being successful at fishing for stripers is a matter of locating schools of bait, and the wolf packs of stripers which are likely to be nearby. Fish finders, and forward facing sonar, are a big help in locating these roaming schools. Live bait is very effective here, and stripers can be caught year round.
Black Crappie Fishing
A nice population of healthy, black crappie reside in San Luis Reservoir. Crappie tend to run in schools, and once a school is located, there is a good chance for catching significant numbers. Crappie fishing is easy and requires simple, basic gear. Virtually any fishing pole, reasonably small line and crappie jigs or small hooks baited with live bait, creates the ideal setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to maintain. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. Because crappie prefer cover and structure, locate brush and vegetation in appropriate water depths. Using a fish finder can help locate schools of crappie, which tend to stack vertically around cover. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels in deeper water.
Largemouth Bass Fishing
San Luis Reservoir is a popular bass fishing lake with beginner and accomplished bass anglers. Recent results by bass anglers attest to the fact that fishing for largemouth bass has been quite good. A history of careful fisheries management by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife has helped to maintain a thriving bass fishery. In San Luis Reservoir, bass often move shallow and become fairly aggressive when they are in a feeding mood. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, drop shot rigs, big worms, jigs and spoons are good options. In winter, spend your time fishing deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, rainbow trout, bluegill and striped bass at San Luis Reservoir in California.
San Luis Reservoir Fishing Video
Bragging size striped bass are caught with regularity at San Luis Reservoir, a 12,700 acre lake, located in the west central part of the state, 10 miles west of Los Banos. Just five miles off Interstate 5, this is an easy getaway for a weekend of boating, camping and fishing.
San Luis Reservoir, located in central California, is a popular fishing destination for anglers of all skill levels. The reservoir is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities and diverse range of fish species. Anglers can expect to catch a variety of fish, including striped bass, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegill.
One of the highlights of fishing at San Luis Reservoir is the abundance of striped bass. Known for their strong fight and impressive size, striped bass are a favorite among anglers. The reservoir's deep waters provide an ideal habitat for these fish, and catching a trophy-sized striped bass is not uncommon. The striped bass population in San Luis Reservoir is well-managed, ensuring a sustainable fishery for years to come.
It's important to note that San Luis Reservoir is a regulated water source for agricultural purposes, which can affect water levels and fishing conditions. It's advisable to check the water conditions and any fishing restrictions or advisories before planning your fishing trip. Additionally, anglers should be aware of the local fishing regulations and obtain the necessary fishing licenses and permits.
San Luis Reservoir in California offers a fantastic fishing experience with its diverse range of fish species, including striped bass, largemouth bass, and more. Boating on the reservoir allows anglers to explore different fishing spots and enjoy the picturesque surroundings. Camping near the reservoir provides an opportunity to relax and immerse oneself in the beauty of the area. When planning a fishing trip to San Luis Reservoir, it's important to stay informed about any fishing regulations, water conditions, and safety guidelines to ensure an enjoyable and successful fishing experience.
Bass, crappie, trout, catfish and bluegill inhabit the relative shallows of the fourteen miles of shoreline wrapping the lake. Stripers roam the deeper channels and ledges, many growing to trophy size. Lake levels drop and rise often, and the area can be excessively windy at times. Primary boating access is via the nice boat launch ramp and facilities at the Dinosaur Point State Park Entrance Station, on the west side of the lake on Dinosaur Point. A second boat landing is located at the Basalt Day Use Area in the southeast corner of the lake.
Primary fish species residing in San Luis Reservoir
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
San Luis Reservoir Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: NEARBY
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a popular activity at San Luis Reservoir, as it allows anglers to explore the vast expanse of the reservoir and access prime fishing spots. Anglers can bring their own boats or rent them from the marina, which offers a range of boat rentals suitable for different preferences. The reservoir's calm waters and ample space make it an ideal location for boating and fishing adventures.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Dinosaur Point State Park Boat Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off Dinosaur Point Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Fishing Guides On San Luis Reservoir
Roger George Guide Service - striped bass
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 available near San Luis Reservoir, providing anglers and outdoor enthusiasts with the opportunity to extend their fishing trip and fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. There are designated camping areas with amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and restroom facilities. Whether you prefer tent camping or RV camping, there are options available to suit different camping preferences.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Basalt Campground - 209 826-9709
San Luis Creek Campground - 209 826-1197
Medeiros Campground - 209 826-1197
Los Banos Creek Campground - 209 826-1197
Santa Nella RV Park - 209 826-3105
San Luis Reservoir CA Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
San Luis Reservoir
San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area
31426 Gonzaga Road
Gustine, CA 95322
209 826-1197
Fishing lakes in each state.
082024
San Luis Reservoir in Central California.
CALIFORNIA
Fishing for big striped bass in west central CA.
