Fishing At Lake Cachuma In Central CA

AKA: Cachuma Lake, Cachuma Reservoir

What to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, white crappie, rainbow trout, bluegill and redear sunfish at Lake Cachuma in California.

One of the top freshwater fishing lakes in Southern California, Lake Cachuma has a lot to offer visiting anglers. This is a 3,100 acre impoundment, located 18 miles northeast of Santa Barbara. Bass and trout over 10 pounds, catfish over 30 pounds, and plenty of quality fish reside here.

Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Rental Boats
Marinas
Boat Launch Ramps
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Lake Video
Contact Info

Lake Cachuma, located in the Santa Ynez Valley of California, is a renowned fishing destination offering a wide variety of species and a picturesque setting. The lake is well-known for its excellent bass fishing, with both largemouth bass and smallmouth bass thriving in its waters. Anglers can test their skills and techniques to lure these prized game fish, known for their hard fight and acrobatic leaps. Additionally, the lake is home to other popular species such as rainbow trout, catfish, crappie, and bluegill, providing anglers with diverse fishing opportunities throughout the year.

Boating is a popular activity at Lake Cachuma, allowing anglers to explore the expansive waters and access prime fishing spots. The lake has boat ramps available for launching various watercraft, including fishing boats, pontoons, and kayaks. Anglers can cruise along the scenic shoreline, target specific fishing areas, and enjoy the tranquility of the lake while pursuing their favorite species.

Camping facilities at Lake Cachuma offer a wonderful opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the area. The lake features several campgrounds with a range of options, from tent camping to RV sites, accommodating all types of campers. With picturesque views of the lake and surrounding hills, campers can enjoy a serene outdoor experience and be in close proximity to the fishing action.

Lake Cachuma also boasts amenities and activities beyond fishing. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, bird-watching, and wildlife observation in the surrounding Santa Ynez Mountains. The lake's calm waters are suitable for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming, providing additional recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

For those seeking a memorable fishing experience in a scenic setting, Lake Cachuma in California offers abundant opportunities. Whether you're targeting bass, trout, catfish, or panfish, the lake's diverse fishery and breathtaking backdrop make it a top choice for anglers of all skill levels. With boating facilities, camping options, and a range of recreational activities, Lake Cachuma provides a well-rounded outdoor experience for nature lovers and fishing enthusiasts alike.

Shoreline fishing, kayaks, canoes and all types of boats are methods for catching fish in this popular fishery. Trout stockings during cooler months keep the trout fishing active and help some of the monster bass in Cachuma grow even bigger.

Primary fish species residing in Lake Cachuma.

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake Cachuma Amenities

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