Fishing at Lake Shasta, California
30,000-acre reservoir · Shasta County · 1,067 ft elevation · 4 species stocked
Stretching across 30,000 acres in Shasta County, Lake Shasta 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 6 stocking events on record for Lake Shasta:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 11, 2026 | 🐟 Smallmouth Bass | 755 | 9.6″ |
| Nov 16, 2025 | 🟫 Brown Trout | 3,768 | 4.0″ |
| Mar 29, 2025 | 🍣 Kokanee Salmon | 12,856 | 5.2″ |
| Feb 12, 2025 | 🟫 Brown Trout | 4,312 | 4.0″ |
| Nov 19, 2024 | 🌈 Rainbow Trout | 5,329 | 7.8″ |
| Sep 18, 2024 | 🟫 Brown Trout | 4,162 | 6.4″ |
Species You Can Catch
- 🐟 Smallmouth Bass — best in late spring, summer, fall
- 🟫 Brown Trout — best in fall, winter
- 🍣 Kokanee Salmon — best in summer
- 🌈 Rainbow Trout — best in spring, fall
Where to Catch Smallmouth Bass in California
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Lake Shasta, the state-level guide ranks the top lakes by stocking volume — a good supplement to this page when planning a trip:
- Top Smallmouth Bass lakes in California
- Top Brown Trout lakes in California
- Top Kokanee Salmon lakes in California
- Top Rainbow Trout lakes in California
Best Time to Fish Lake Shasta
For smallmouth bass, the best fishing on Lake Shasta is typically in late spring, summer and fall, when surface temperatures fall in the 60–75°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 Lake Shasta. Links go to Amazon — as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
- rod: Medium 7' spinning rod
- lure: Tube baits
- rod: Medium-light 7' spinning rod
- lure: Jerkbaits
- rod: Light kokanee trolling rod
- reel: Line counter reel
- rod: Ultralight 6'6" spinning rod
- reel: Light spinning reel (1000 size)
Nearby Lakes
Other stocked waters within ~75 miles of Lake Shasta:
- Lake Almanor — 73.2 mi (28,000 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid California fishing license is required at Lake Shasta. 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 Lake Shasta?
Lake Shasta has been stocked with Smallmouth Bass, Brown Trout, Kokanee Salmon, Rainbow Trout.
When was Lake Shasta last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Mar 11, 2026, when 755 smallmouth bass were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Lake Shasta?
Yes — a valid California fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.