Bluegill Fishing in California

Top 1 lakes ranked by stocking volume

California stocks bluegill in 1 known waters, ranging from small impoundments to multi-thousand-acre reservoirs. The lakes below are sorted by recent stocking volume — quantity isn't everything, but it's a strong proxy for how much effort the state agency is putting into a given fishery.

About Bluegill

The classic kid's fish. Aggressive, abundant, and surprisingly strong on light tackle. A 9-inch bluegill is a trophy.

Best seasons: spring, summer. Active water-temp range: 65–80°F.

Productive techniques

• worm under a bobber
• small poppers on a fly rod
• tiny jigs

Top Bluegill lakes in California

Gear for Bluegill

Tackle that consistently produces. Amazon Associate links — we earn from qualifying purchases.

• rod: Ultralight panfish rod
• lure: Tiny jigs (1/64 - 1/32 oz)
• bait: Red worms
• float: Small bobbers