Guide To Fishing At Trinity Lake In Northern CA

AKA: Clair Engle Lake

What to fish for...

Fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, rainbow trout, brown trout, bluegill, chinook salmon and kokanee salmon at Trinity Lake in California.

Located in the northwest part of the state in Trinity County, an easy drive from Redding, CA, Trinity Lake offers 16,500 acres of varied fishing opportunities. You can fish for both warm-water and cold-water species which both thrive in this picturesque, mountain lake.

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

Trinity Lake, located in Northern California, is a haven for fishing enthusiasts seeking a pristine and abundant fishing experience. The lake is known for its diverse fish species and breathtaking natural beauty, making it a popular destination for anglers of all skill levels.

One of the prized fish species in Trinity Lake is the rainbow trout. These trout are stocked regularly, providing ample opportunities for anglers to reel in some impressive catches. Rainbow trout can be caught using a variety of techniques, including trolling with lures, casting with spinners or spoons, or fly fishing. The lake's deep waters and submerged structures create ideal habitats for trout, making it a promising fishing spot throughout the year.

Another popular fish species in Trinity Lake is the smallmouth bass. Known for their spirited fights and aggressive nature, smallmouth bass offer anglers an exciting challenge. These bass can be found near rocky structures, submerged vegetation, or drop-offs. Techniques such as casting with jigs, crankbaits, or soft plastics are effective for targeting smallmouth bass in Trinity Lake.

In addition to rainbow trout and smallmouth bass, Trinity Lake is home to other fish species, including largemouth bass, kokanee salmon, and catfish. Largemouth bass can be found in the lake's coves, around submerged vegetation, or near structure. Kokanee salmon are often targeted by trolling with downriggers and using lures like spoons or dodgers. Catfish can be caught using various baits such as nightcrawlers, chicken liver, or stinkbaits, particularly during the warmer months.

Trinity Lake offers excellent opportunities for boating enthusiasts to explore its vast waters. Boaters can launch their boats from the available ramps and enjoy cruising, fishing, or engaging in water sports. The lake's scenic beauty, surrounded by majestic forests and mountains, provides a serene backdrop for boating adventures.

For those who want to extend their fishing trip, camping facilities are available near Trinity Lake. The campgrounds offer a range of amenities, including campsites, picnic areas, and restroom facilities, providing a comfortable and convenient camping experience. Camping near Trinity Lake allows anglers to immerse themselves in nature, enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings, and make the most of their fishing excursion.

It's important to be aware of fishing regulations and any specific guidelines that apply to Trinity Lake. Anglers should familiarize themselves with the bag limits, size restrictions, and fishing seasons for each species they intend to target. Additionally, obtaining the appropriate fishing licenses is necessary to ensure compliance with state regulations and support the conservation efforts of the lake's fish populations.

Trinity Lake in California offers a rewarding fishing experience with its diverse fish species, including rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, kokanee salmon, and catfish. Boating enthusiasts can enjoy the lake's scenic beauty and ample opportunities for water activities. Camping facilities provide a chance to immerse oneself in the natural surroundings and make the most of the fishing adventure. By respecting fishing regulations and practicing responsible angling, visitors can enjoy a memorable and sustainable fishing experience at Trinity Lake.

Fish from shore, from a fishing boat, or rent a houseboat and take the whole family fishing. Hailed an excellent bass fishery - especially smallmouth, you can also fish for hand-size bluegill or monster trout and salmon. There are plenty of places to camp around the lake, and convenient places to launch a boat.

Primary fish species residing in Trinity Lake.

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Trinity 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

Fishing Boat Rentals

Trinity Alps Marina
Rentals: Fishing boats and pontoons
530 410-2354

Trinity Lake Resort & Marina
Rentals: Fishing boats, kayaks and pontoons
530 286-2225

Marinas

Trinity Alps Marina
1 Fairview Marina Dr
Lewiston, CA 96052
530 410-2354

Trinity Lake Resort & Marina
45810 State Highway 3
Trinity Center, CA 96091
530 286-2225

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Bowerman Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, north side, off Guy Covington Drive, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.

Clark Springs Boat Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off Ranier Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.

Fairview Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, off Fairview Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.

Minersville Public Boat Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off Granite Peak Road, this is a single-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Stuart Fork Public Boat Ramp
Located on the west side of the lake, off Highway 3, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.

Tannery Gulch Lake Access
Located on the west side of the lake, off Tannery Gulch Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with limited parking.

Trinity Center Boat Ramp
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, west side, off Mary Ave, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with limited parking.

Click here for a California fishing license.