Fishing Big Bear Lake In Southern CA

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, rainbow trout, brook trout, brown trout, bluegill and pumpkinseed sunfish at Big Bear Lake in California.

Located twenty five miles northeast of San Bernardino, Big Bear Lake is an easy trip from the city. Excellent camping and fishing opportunities, during the warm months, attract visitors from across the state. The lake is six mile long. Camping facilities with RV hookups are available, on the water, at Serrano Campground. The town of Big Bear offers a variety of accommodations, restaurants, bars and shopping. The scenery is spectacular with mountains and ski slopes for the winter visitors.

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

Lake Video

Big Bear Lake, located in the picturesque San Bernardino Mountains of Southern California, is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. The lake is known for its abundant fish population and offers a variety of fishing opportunities for both locals and visitors.

One of the most sought-after fish species in Big Bear Lake is the rainbow trout. These beautiful fish are regularly stocked in the lake, ensuring a consistent fishing experience. Anglers can find rainbow trout throughout the year, with prime fishing seasons in the spring and fall when the water temperatures are optimal.

Aside from rainbow trout, Big Bear Lake is also home to other fish species such as largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and catfish. Bass fishing in particular is popular, with anglers enjoying the thrill of catching these feisty fish. Additionally, you may encounter species like bluegill, crappie, and carp, adding to the diversity of the fishing experience at the lake.

Big Bear Lake provides an alluring combination of fishing, boating, and camping opportunities, making it a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning natural scenery, diverse fish species, and recreational activities, it's no wonder that anglers and nature lovers flock to this serene mountain lake for a memorable fishing experience.

Fishing At Big Bear Lake

Trout, bass, crappie, catfish and sunfish populate the lake. At 7,000 feet elevation the lake freezes over during winter, however it is not safe. Ice fishing is prohibited with warnings to keep off the lake.The warm months offer good fishing with trout excelling during spring and fall.

Trout Fishing

Trout are stocked to support the resident population. The lake record rainbow trout is 21 pounds so there are trophy trout available as well. Early spring and late fall are the best times to catch lunkers. The first and last couple hours of the day increase your odds of catching bigger fish.

Other Fishing

During the warmer months the lake offers decent bass, crappie and catfish fishing. Summertime is best for catching sunfish.

Primary fish species residing in Big Bear Lake.

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Big Bear 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

Fishing Reports, Forums & Blogs

Updated fishing reports

CA Fishing Forums

Today's Weather & Forecast

Average high and average low, monthly temperatures at Big Bear Lake.

January 47° - 21°
February 47° - 22°
March 52° - 25°
April 59° - 29°
May 69° - 36°
June 76° - 42°
July 81° - 48°
August 80° - 47°
September 73° - 42°
October 64° - 33°
November 54° - 27°
December 47° - 21°

Boating is a common activity on Big Bear Lake, with numerous rental options available for those who want to explore the lake's waters. Anglers can take advantage of boat rentals to reach their favorite fishing spots and cover more areas of the lake. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular choices for a more serene and intimate fishing experience.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Big Bear Marina
Rentals: Fishing boats, kayaks and pontoons
909 866-3218

Captain John's Fawn Harbor & Marina
Rentals: Canoes, kayaks and pontoon boats
909 866-6478

Big Bear Kayak Rentals
Rentals: Kayaks
909 878-3155

Lighthouse Trailer Resort & Marina
Rentals: kAYAKS
909 866-9464

Pine Knot Marina
Rentals: Fishing boats and pontoons
909 633-7511

Pleasure Point Marina
Rentals: Fishing boats, kayaks and pontoons
909 866-2455

Marinas

Big Bear Marina
500 Paine Ct
Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
909 866-3218

Captain John's Fawn Harbor & Marina
39369 N Shore Dr
Fawnskin, CA 92333
909 866-6478

Lighthouse Trailer Resort & Marina
40545 N Shore Ln
Big Bear, CA 92314
909 866-9464

Pine Knot Marina
439 Pine Knot Ave
Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
909 633-7511

Pleasure Point Marina
603 Landlock Landing
Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
909 866-2455

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Big Bear Marina
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, off Lakeview Drive, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and no parking for vehicles with trailers.

Carol Morrison East Public Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, off N Shore Drive, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Duane Boyer West Public Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off N Shore Drive, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Camping opportunities abound in the Big Bear Lake area, making it an ideal destination for anglers who want to immerse themselves in nature. There are several campgrounds and RV parks in the vicinity that offer convenient access to the lake and its fishing grounds. Whether you prefer tent camping or RV camping, you can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding mountains and the tranquility of the lake.

Camping & Campgrounds At Big Bear Lake

Pine Tree RV Park - 909 866-2015

Click here for a California fishing license.

Big Bear Lake CA Map - Fishing & Camping Areas

Rentals & Lodging Nearby Big Bear Lake

This is a year-round vacation area with snow skiing in the winter and plenty of boating and fishing during the warmer months. Whatever your style or budget for accommodations you can find it here. Motels, hotels, resorts, cabins and vacation rentals are plentiful. The town is built for tourists and offers a vacation paradise to outdoor lovers.