Fishing at Bullards Bar Reservoir, California
4,810-acre reservoir · Yuba County · 1,956 ft elevation · 3 species stocked
Stretching across 4,810 acres in Yuba County, Bullards Bar Reservoir is a reservoir known to anglers throughout California for its consistent fishery for its target species. Whether you're casting from a kayak or running deeper structure from a boat, the data on this page will help you plan your next trip.
Recent Stocking Reports
The most recent 6 stocking events on record for Bullards Bar Reservoir:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 5, 2026 | 🍣 Kokanee Salmon | 101,163 | 11.3″ |
| Dec 12, 2025 | 🌈 Rainbow Trout | 16,851 | 3.3″ |
| Oct 9, 2025 | 🐟 Smallmouth Bass | 2,093 | 3.6″ |
| Sep 26, 2025 | 🌈 Rainbow Trout | 24,535 | 9.7″ |
| Dec 24, 2024 | 🍣 Kokanee Salmon | 124,406 | 2.9″ |
| Sep 22, 2024 | 🐟 Smallmouth Bass | 1,514 | 10.2″ |
Species You Can Catch
- 🍣 Kokanee Salmon — best in summer
- 🌈 Rainbow Trout — best in spring, fall
- 🐟 Smallmouth Bass — best in late spring, summer, fall
Where to Catch Kokanee Salmon in California
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Bullards Bar Reservoir, the state-level guide ranks the top lakes by stocking volume — a good supplement to this page when planning a trip:
- Top Kokanee Salmon lakes in California
- Top Rainbow Trout lakes in California
- Top Smallmouth Bass lakes in California
Best Time to Fish Bullards Bar Reservoir
For kokanee salmon, the best fishing on Bullards Bar Reservoir is typically in summer, when surface temperatures fall in the 50–60°F range. That window matches the active feeding period for the species and aligns with reservoir thermal turnover, putting fish in predictable depths and structure. Check the recent stocking dates above — fish are easiest to locate in the first two to four weeks after a planting.
Gear Recommendations
Curated picks for the species stocked in Bullards Bar Reservoir. Links go to Amazon — as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
- rod: Light kokanee trolling rod
- reel: Line counter reel
- rod: Ultralight 6'6" spinning rod
- reel: Light spinning reel (1000 size)
- rod: Medium 7' spinning rod
- lure: Tube baits
Nearby Lakes
Other stocked waters within ~75 miles of Bullards Bar Reservoir:
- Lake Oroville — 20.5 mi (15,805 ac)
- Folsom Lake — 48.5 mi (11,450 ac)
- Lake Almanor — 58.6 mi (28,000 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid California fishing license is required at Bullards Bar Reservoir. Buy one online and check current regulations at the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Always confirm seasonal closures, size limits, and creel limits before fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fish are stocked in Bullards Bar Reservoir?
Bullards Bar Reservoir has been stocked with Kokanee Salmon, Rainbow Trout, Smallmouth Bass.
When was Bullards Bar Reservoir last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Feb 5, 2026, when 101,163 kokanee salmon were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Bullards Bar Reservoir?
Yes — a valid California fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.