Fishing at Folsom Lake, California
11,450-acre reservoir · Sacramento County · 466 ft elevation · 4 species stocked
Stretching across 11,450 acres in Sacramento County, Folsom Lake is a reservoir 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 10 stocking events on record for Folsom Lake:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 26, 2026 | 🐟 Channel Catfish | 3,632 | 5.2″ |
| Apr 20, 2026 | 🐟 Channel Catfish | 3,343 | 11.5″ |
| Mar 21, 2026 | 🌈 Rainbow Trout | 8,161 | 11.2″ |
| Nov 26, 2025 | 🐟 Channel Catfish | 1,651 | 9.5″ |
| Oct 1, 2025 | 🐟 Smallmouth Bass | 2,340 | 7.2″ |
| Apr 14, 2025 | 🐟 Smallmouth Bass | 901 | 4.7″ |
| Dec 11, 2024 | 🐟 Smallmouth Bass | 660 | 11.3″ |
| Aug 5, 2024 | 🐠 Largemouth Bass | 2,258 | 11.5″ |
| Apr 28, 2024 | 🐟 Channel Catfish | 3,594 | 3.0″ |
| Mar 22, 2024 | 🐟 Smallmouth Bass | 914 | 3.1″ |
Species You Can Catch
- 🐟 Channel Catfish — best in summer
- 🌈 Rainbow Trout — best in spring, fall
- 🐟 Smallmouth Bass — best in late spring, summer, fall
- 🐠 Largemouth Bass — best in spring, summer
Where to Catch Channel Catfish in California
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Folsom Lake, the state-level guide ranks the top lakes by stocking volume — a good supplement to this page when planning a trip:
- Top Channel Catfish lakes in California
- Top Rainbow Trout lakes in California
- Top Smallmouth Bass lakes in California
- Top Largemouth Bass lakes in California
Best Time to Fish Folsom Lake
For channel catfish, the best fishing on Folsom Lake is typically in summer, when surface temperatures fall in the 70–85°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 Folsom Lake. Links go to Amazon — as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
- rod: Medium-heavy 7' catfish rod
- reel: Catfish baitcaster
- rod: Ultralight 6'6" spinning rod
- reel: Light spinning reel (1000 size)
- rod: Medium 7' spinning rod
- lure: Tube baits
- rod: Medium-heavy 7' baitcasting rod
- reel: Baitcasting reel 7.1:1
Nearby Lakes
Other stocked waters within ~75 miles of Folsom Lake:
- Bullards Bar Reservoir — 48.5 mi (4,810 ac)
- Lake Oroville — 60.7 mi (15,805 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid California fishing license is required at Folsom 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 Folsom Lake?
Folsom Lake has been stocked with Channel Catfish, Rainbow Trout, Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass.
When was Folsom Lake last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Apr 26, 2026, when 3,632 channel catfish were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Folsom Lake?
Yes — a valid California fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.