Fishing Shasta Lake In Northern CA
AKA: Lake Shasta
Popular Fish Species Shasta Lake, CA
Rainbow Trout Fishing
Fishing for rainbow trout at Shasta Lake can be effective using worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic prey. Brown and brook trout also reside her in decent numbers. Use the lightest fishing line for the best possible results, based on conditions. Annual 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.
Chinook Salmon Fishing
Chinook Salmon, like all Pacific salmon, die after spawning. Fishing for salmon can allow anglers the opportunity to catch large specimens. They grow large and put up a great fight when hooked. Chinook Salmon have been stocked in Shasta Lake for many years. Fish for chinook with down riggers to troll around the thermocline. Use flashers, trailed with bait for best results. The current California state record for chinook salmon stands at over 20 pounds. Chinook salmon are also known as king salmon.
Largemouth Bass Fishing
Shasta Lake is considered a good bass fishing lake by locals and tournament anglers alike. While fishing success can vary day to day, overall it's a good bass lake. Fishing for bass can be quite rewarding, with an occasional bass over 4 pounds being caught. Anglers can also catch smallmouth bass and spotted bass, which reside here in decent numbers. Bass often move shallow and become 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, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, white catfish, black crappie, rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout, bluegill, green sunfish, chinook salmon and sturgeon at Shasta Lake in California.
Shasta Lake Fishing Video
As one of the premiere tourist attractions, Lake Shasta gets lots of attention from anglers and vacationers alike. It is a 29,700 acre lake, located near Redding, CA in Shasta County. This famous bass fishery is also home to excellent trout and salmon fishing. Add catfish, sunfish and the potential to catch a monster sturgeon, and you have a great place to go fishing in Northern California. Just a few miles off Interstate 5, it has easy access with lots of amenities. This is a great place for kayak fishing.
Shasta Lake, located in Northern California, is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities and is a popular destination among anglers. The lake is known for its diverse fish population, offering a variety of species to target. Some of the popular fish species found in Shasta Lake include rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee salmon, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, and catfish.
Rainbow trout fishing is particularly popular at Shasta Lake, and it attracts anglers of all skill levels. These trout are known for their strong fight and can be caught using various techniques such as trolling, casting, or fly fishing. The lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout, ensuring a consistent fishing experience throughout the year.
Shasta Lake is also renowned for its bass fishing. Anglers can target largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and spotted bass in the lake's waters. The bass population in Shasta Lake is healthy, and it offers opportunities for both recreational anglers and tournament anglers seeking trophy-sized fish. Casting soft plastics, crankbaits, and topwater lures are popular techniques for bass fishing at Shasta Lake.
Before fishing at Shasta Lake, it's important to familiarize yourself with the local fishing regulations and obtain the necessary fishing licenses and permits. Additionally, checking the water conditions and any fishing advisories is crucial for a safe and successful fishing trip. Being well-prepared and informed will contribute to a memorable fishing experience at Shasta Lake.
Shasta Lake in California offers anglers a fantastic fishing experience with its diverse fish population, including rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee salmon, bass species, and catfish. The lake provides ample opportunities for boating, allowing anglers to access various fishing spots. Camping facilities near the lake enable visitors to enjoy an extended stay in the picturesque surroundings. Make sure to follow fishing regulations, obtain the appropriate licenses, and stay updated on water conditions to make the most of your fishing adventure at Shasta Lake.
Primary fish species residing in Shasta Lake.
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Shasta Lake Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a popular activity at Shasta Lake, providing anglers with easy access to different fishing spots and allowing them to cover more water. The lake has numerous boat ramps and marinas where visitors can launch their boats or rent them. Whether you prefer fishing from a motorboat, pontoon boat, or kayak, Shasta Lake offers options for every angler's preference.
Fishing Boat Rentals
Bridge Bay at Shasta Lake
Rentals: Fishing boats and patio boats
530 275-3021
Digger Bay Marina at Shasta Lake
Rentals: Fishing boats
530 275-3072
Holiday Harbor Marina
Rentals: Fishing boats and patio boats
530 238-2383
Silverthorn Resort Marina
Rentals: Fishing boats, deck boats and patio boats
800 332-3044
Marinas
Digger Bay Marina at Shasta Lake
15090 Digger Bay Rd
Shasta Lake, CA 96019
530 275-3072
Holiday Harbor Marina
20061 Shasta Caverns Rd
O'Brien, CA 96051
530 238-2383
Silverthorn Resort Marina
16250 Silverthorn Rd
Redding, CA 96003
800 332-3044
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Bailey Cove Public Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, in the McCloud River Arm, west side, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.
Bridge Bay at Shasta Lake
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, at the south end of the Cascade Wonderland Highway, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Centimudi Boat Launch
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, off Kennett Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Hirz Bay Public Boat Ramp
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, west side, off Hirz Bay Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Holiday Harbor Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, in the McCloud River Arm, west side, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.
Jones Valley Public Boat Launch
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, off Whiskeytown Shasta-Trinity Nra, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Packers Bay Public Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, off Packers Bay Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and plenty of paved parking.
Sugarloaf Public Boat Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off Shore Drive, this is a multi-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.
Fishing Guides On Shasta Lake
Eric Degraffenreid 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 available in the surrounding area, allowing anglers to extend their stay and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Shasta Lake. 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 accommodate different camping preferences.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Shasta Lake RV Resort & Campground - 530 238-2370
Mariner's Point Campground - 530 275-1589
Bailey Cove Campground - 530 275-8113
Lakehead Campground & RV Park - 530 238-8443
Shasta Lake CA Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Shasta Lake
City of Shasta Lake
1650 Stanton Drive
Shasta Lake, CA 96019
530 275-7400
Fishing lakes in each state.
101624
Shasta Lake in Northern California.
CALIFORNIA
Famously exceptional bass fishing in northern CA.
