Guide: Fishing Whiskeytown Lake

Whiskeytown Lake is a go-to spot for anglers in Shasta County, especially those looking for kokanee salmon. The lake spans 3,220 acres, offers 36 miles of shoreline, and sits at an elevation of 1,200 feet, making it a prime fishing destination just a short drive from Redding.

Thanks to regular plantings from the Department of Fish and Game, there are plenty of kokanee to catch, along with rainbow and brook trout. If you’re after bass, you’ll find them here too, though they can be a bit tricky in the clear waters. Whether you’re on a boat or fishing from the shore, you'll want to pay attention to depth—kokanee are often more active at about 15 feet in the spring but can go as deep as 70 feet later in the summer.

Historical Fish Plants

Loading weather forecast...

General Background

You know, the fishing at Whiskeytown Lake just keeps getting better. Located just a short drive from Redding, this 3,220-acre lake sits at an elevation of 1,200 feet and is becoming quite the draw for anglers in Northern California. With thousands of kokanee salmon planted here by the Department of Fish and Game, there’s a buzz around hooking one of these feisty fish. Spring and early summer typically see anglers dropping their lines around 15 feet deep, with depths reaching up to 70 feet later in the season. Try your hand at trolling with a Sling Blade dodger and Koke-a-Nut, and you'll quickly see what the hype is all about.

While kokanee salmon are the main attraction, Whiskeytown isn’t a one-trick pony. Rainbow and brook trout are also abundant, particularly near the Highway 299 bridge and powerhouse, where running water can really turn on the bite. Bass enthusiasts can find largemouth and smallmouth species here too, though catching them requires a bit of finesse due to the lake's clear waters. If you're bank fishing, the Whiskey Creek arm has accessible shoreline when the lake's at full capacity. Just remember, light lines are crucial as wary bass don’t take kindly to heavy tackle.

How to Plan Your Trip

So, when you head to Whiskeytown Lake, you’re stepping into a solid fishing spot in Northern California. The lake’s reputation is largely due to the kokanee salmon, which have been making a real comeback. If you want to target these beauties, using a Sling Blade dodger with a Koke-a-Nut can be a winning combo, but keep an eye on your depth. Spring’s a good time when 15 feet often does the trick, while summer can see you fishing as deep as 70 feet. If the kokanee aren’t feeling it, switching over to night crawlers can snag you some nice rainbow and brook trout.

The area near the Highway 299 bridge and the powerhouse tends to be a hot spot for trout, especially when the powerhouse is running. For those angling from shore, Whiskey Creek's arm opens up when the lake's full, giving folks tons of space to find a good cast. While bass are in there, the clarity of the water means lighter line should be your go-to; a heavy line will just scare them off. The local campgrounds, including Brandy Creek and Oak Bottom, are handy for a longer stay, and while the wind can kick up in early summer, enjoy the peaceful moments that come amid the waves. Always check the conditions ahead of time, bring along snacks and plenty of water, and let someone know where you'll be.

Species to Catch and Gear

So, getting into it, Whiskeytown Lake has a solid assortment of fish that keep anglers coming back. You’ve got rainbow trout swimming all over, especially in the deeper waters near the dam, which is a popular spot. Kokanee salmon have been making waves, too, thanks to the planting efforts by the Department of Fish and Game. You can find them in those shallower areas from spring through fall. For a bit of a challenge, king salmon are worth targeting, usually lurking deeper but also in the rivers feeding into the lake.

You might even encounter some catfish at night for a different experience. And while bass aren't the main event here, both largemouth and smallmouth can be caught if you know where to look, especially near the shore and in those deeper spots. When you're out there, pay attention to the surroundings. The clear waters can make for some great sight fishing, but also bring in the need for lighter lines to avoid spooking the bass. If you’re fishing from the shore, the Whiskey Creek arm provides good access, and don't overlook the powerhouse area for trout. Just remember that the wind can pick up in early summer, which might shake things up a bit, especially for those peaceful fishing moments.

Final Notes for the Water

It's all about having the right mindset and gear when you’re at Whiskeytown Lake. With kokanee salmon putting up a good showing and the reliable presence of rainbow trout, each trip here can be a new adventure. Whether you’re casting off from the shore or navigating the waters by boat, there's ample opportunity to catch something worth bragging about. Just remember, while it’s a prime spot for some quality fishing, staying updated on local rules and regulations is crucial.

They can change, and variability between the seasons can impact your experience. If you're planning to head out, keep an eye on water levels and weather forecasts—the conditions can shift quickly. Those relaxed shores and the beauty of the lake draw many, but it takes a bit of strategy to really tap into what Whiskeytown has to offer. So, grab your gear, consider the tips, and maybe even come prepared to try a few different techniques.