Fishing Lower Otay Lake In Southern CA

AKA: Lower Otay Reservoir

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

Lower Otay Lake, CA

Popular Fish Species Lower Otay Lake, CA

Crappie Fishing

Crappie anglers can fish for both black crappie and white crappie at Lower Otay Lake. These two species tend to school separately. However, once located around cover, you may catch both species, as they often use the same cover. For best results when fishing for crappie, light line and small hooks are key, especially when fishing live or prepared baits. Crappie jigs are also productive her in a wide variety of colors. This is a good place to catch quantities of nice, fat slabs. Crappie fishing can be found in varying size schools, hanging around brush, vegetation, wood or other cover. Using a fish finder any time of year can help locate these crappie schools, which tend to stack vertically around cover. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. 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, especially areas with brush or timber in deeper water. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk.

Lower Otay Lake Popular Fish - Blue Catfish

Blue Catfish Fishing

This year blue catfish are running in the big to monster size in Lower Otay Lake. Most of the local guides offer catfish trips, and big blues are the favorite target. Fishing for blue catfish is most often productive during spring through summer around any kind of structure. Blue catfish are primarily found in large rivers, along the main channels, in and around tributaries flowing into impoundments of major river systems. They tend to move upstream in the summer in search of cooler temperatures, and downstream in the winter in order to find warmer water.The river end of the lake is often the area where the bigger catfish are caught. Road beds, creek channels and rocky points are all good places to begin. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with cut bait or other popular catfish baits. Channel catfish are also available here for anglers to pursue here.

Bluegill Fishing

Fishing for bluegill is a time-honored tradition at Lower Otay Lake. Young and old, beginners and seasoned anglers alike, all enjoy catching a bunch of fat bluegill. This year, much like recent years, the bluegill population is healthy and always looking for something to eat. Bluegill fishing is as basic as fishing gets. Any pole, reasonably small line and small hooks baited with anything edible, creates the ideal setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to position. Bluegill hang around brush, rocks, vegetation or any cover available.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, blue catfish, black crappie, white crappie, bluegill and green sunfish at Lower Otay Lake in California.

Lower Otay Lake Fishing Video

Bass, catfish, crappie and sunfish hide among the submerged timber in Lower Otay Lake, an 1,100-acre lake in southwest CA, 10 miles east of Chula Vista. Giant largemouth bass are caught with some regularity here, often weighing over ten pounds as well as many in the mid-range weights.

Lower Otay Lake, located in San Diego County, California, is a renowned fishing destination that offers an exciting angling experience. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, making it a favorite spot among fishing enthusiasts. One of the most sought-after species in Lower Otay Lake is the largemouth bass. Anglers can test their skills and techniques in pursuit of these feisty game fish known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights. The lake is also populated with other popular sportfish such as catfish, crappie, bluegill, and carp, providing ample opportunities for anglers to reel in a diverse range of species.

In addition to fishing, boating, and camping, Lower Otay Lake offers a range of recreational activities.

Access for fishing from the bank is available along most of the twenty five miles of shoreline, with some of the easiest along the west shore. Boat access is via Otay Lake City of San Diego Reservoir boat launch ramp on the west side of the lake, off Wueste Road. Rental boats are available at the concession near the boat landing, which also has bait, fishing tackle and snacks.

Primary fish species residing in Lower Otay Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lower Otay Lake Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: NEARBY
RV Hookups: NEARBY
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: NEARBY

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a popular activity at Lower Otay Lake, allowing anglers and recreational boaters to explore the expansive waters. The lake permits both motorized and non-motorized boats, including kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. Boaters can take advantage of the boat ramp and rentals available at the lake to launch their vessels and access prime fishing spots. Cruising the serene waters of Lower Otay Lake offers not only excellent fishing opportunities but also breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Fishing Otay Lake Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, off Wueste Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Fishing Guides On Lower Otay Lake

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 not available directly at Lower Otay Lake; however, there are nearby campgrounds and recreational areas that offer camping facilities. Visitors can find various camping options in the vicinity, allowing them to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region. These campgrounds provide amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms, ensuring a comfortable camping experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Pio Pico RV Resort & Campground - 619 421-0104

Sweetwater Summit Regional Park Campground - 619 472-7572