Fishing at Clear Lake, California
43,785-acre natural lake · Lake County · 1,329 ft elevation · 4 species stocked
Stretching across 43,785 acres in Lake County, Clear Lake is a natural lake known to anglers throughout California for its mixed warmwater and coldwater fishery. 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 7 stocking events on record for Clear Lake:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 13, 2026 | 🐠 Largemouth Bass | 1,260 | 10.0″ |
| Jul 7, 2025 | 🐠 Largemouth Bass | 1,069 | 8.8″ |
| May 10, 2025 | 🐟 Channel Catfish | 1,155 | 4.6″ |
| Jan 16, 2025 | 🐟 Channel Catfish | 3,631 | 3.6″ |
| Dec 3, 2024 | 🐟 Crappie | 6,638 | 6.9″ |
| Jun 26, 2024 | 🐟 Bluegill | 4,745 | 9.4″ |
| Feb 14, 2024 | 🐠 Largemouth Bass | 1,905 | 8.8″ |
Species You Can Catch
- 🐠 Largemouth Bass — best in spring, summer
- 🐟 Channel Catfish — best in summer
- 🐟 Crappie — best in spring
- 🐟 Bluegill — best in spring, summer
Where to Catch Largemouth Bass in California
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Clear Lake, the state-level guide ranks the top lakes by stocking volume — a good supplement to this page when planning a trip:
- Top Largemouth Bass lakes in California
- Top Channel Catfish lakes in California
- Top Crappie lakes in California
- Top Bluegill lakes in California
Best Time to Fish Clear Lake
For largemouth bass, the best fishing on Clear Lake is typically in spring and summer, when surface temperatures fall in the 65–80°F range. That window matches the active feeding period for the species and aligns with natural lake 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 Clear Lake. Links go to Amazon — as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
- rod: Medium-heavy 7' baitcasting rod
- reel: Baitcasting reel 7.1:1
- rod: Medium-heavy 7' catfish rod
- reel: Catfish baitcaster
- rod: Light 10' crappie rod
- reel: Light spinning reel
- rod: Ultralight panfish rod
- lure: Tiny jigs (1/64 - 1/32 oz)
Fishing Regulations
A valid California fishing license is required at Clear Lake. 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 Clear Lake?
Clear Lake has been stocked with Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish, Crappie, Bluegill.
When was Clear Lake last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 13, 2026, when 1,260 largemouth bass were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Clear Lake?
Yes — a valid California fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.