With an abundance of rain during the 2023 and 2024 seasons, Cachuma Lake is currently at 91% capacity and is slated to receive 16,000 pounds of rainbow trout this stocking season. The first 4,000 pounds were recently delivered.

The stocking is done in cooperation with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

The fish range in size from half-pound “catchables” to eight-pound trophies that come from Mt. Lassen Trout Farms, Inc., in Paynes Creek, California.
 
“This is a great time of year to be at the lake not only for fishing, but also for viewing the migrating birds passing through with some that are staying on for the winter,” the county said. “Bring a pair of binoculars to look for visiting eagles, osprey, and American white pelicans.”

In addition to rainbow trout, large and smallmouth bass, crappie, carp, catfish, blue gill, and red-eared sunfish are ready to bite.
 
Note that due to the 30-day Quagga restrictions, boats must be inspected and tagged by Cachuma Lake staff at least 30 days prior to visiting. Kayaks, canoes and simple boats are eligible for same-day launch.

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