Fishing Lake Berryessa In Northern CA
AKA: Berryessa Lake
Popular Fish Species Lake Berryessa, CA
Rainbow Trout Fishing
Fishing for rainbow trout at Lake Berryessa can be effective using worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic prey. Use the lightest fishing line for the best possible results, based on conditions. Carefully planned stocking has helped to maintain a good population of rainbow trout. While fishing from a boat is often the preferred method, plenty of trout are caught here by anglers fishing from the bank. Additionally, floating or sinking flies, such as nymphs, streamers, or dry flies, are popular choices for fly anglers targeting rainbow trout. Trolling with lures or flies behind a boat, casting near shoreline structures, or still fishing with bait can all yield success. Adjusting lure size, color, and retrieve speed can enhance chances of enticing these colorful and spirited fish.
Brown Trout Fishing
Currently, fishing for brown trout in Lake Berryessa is delivering some nice catches. These hearty fighters migrate around the lake in search of baitfish and comfortable water temperatures, preferably in the 50 to 62 degree range. In spring brown trout, along with the baitfish, move to the shallows which warms first. As the days get warmer in summer they move deeper, again following schools of bait. As Fall and Winter arrive, browns tend to stay in deeper water. When these trout move deep, it is typically in the 20- to 45-foot range. Nightcrawlers are always a good bait for brown trout. In-line spinners, bait-colored crankbaits and small spoons are other options. Experiment with depth and retrieve speed.
Kokanee Salmon Fishing
Sockeye salmon which remain landlocked, never migrating to the ocean, are called kokanee salmon. On-going stocking of kokanee salmon by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife helps to maintain a nice population for the fishery. Typically kokanee average one to two pounds. As one of the premiere kokanee fishing lakes in California, Lake Berryessa is considered to be the best kokanee fishery in the state, with plenty of fish above normal averages. These tasty fish school in lakes at depths which remain at ideal temperatures of between 48 and 58 degrees. Once this depth is identified, use a fish finder to locate schools. Use small lures trolled at the appropriate depth. The can also be caught using corn, but the main way they are caught is using flashy lures which they attack when the lure intrudes their space.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, white catfish, black crappie, rainbow trout, bluegill, chinook salmon and kokanee salmon at Lake Berryessa in California.
Lake Berryessa Fishing Video
If you enjoy catching bass, trout and salmon all from the same spot, Lake Berryessa might become one of your favorite fishing lakes. This is a 20,700 acre lake, located ten miles west of Winters, CA in Napa County. The lake has a nice mixed bag of bass, catfish, crappie, trout, salmon and sunfish.
Lake Berryessa, located in Napa County, California, is a renowned fishing destination that offers a diverse range of angling opportunities. The lake is known for its thriving population of both warmwater and coldwater fish species, making it a favorite spot for anglers of all types. Bass fishing is particularly popular at Lake Berryessa, with both largemouth and smallmouth bass available in abundance. These bass provide exciting action and anglers often use techniques such as casting with lures or bait, or trolling to target them.
Lake Berryessa is also home to various other game fish species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon. These coldwater species provide additional angling opportunities, especially during the cooler months. Anglers can employ methods such as trolling with downriggers or casting with artificial lures to entice these trout and salmon.
With its diverse fishery, ample boating opportunities, and scenic camping spots, Lake Berryessa is a sought-after destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts in California. Whether you're targeting bass, trout, or salmon, or simply looking to enjoy a peaceful boating and camping experience, Lake Berryessa offers a memorable and fulfilling outdoor adventure.
Depending on time of year, you can focus on a certain species, and at other times you can catch a variety - even from the docks or fishing from shore. For fishing, Berryessa is blessed with both quantity and quality - giving you the opportunity to catch that fish of a lifetime. Bring the family and enjoy all that this lake has to offer.
Primary fish species residing in Lake Berryessa.
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Lake Berryessa Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a favored activity at Lake Berryessa, with its vast size and calm waters providing an ideal environment for watercraft. Anglers can launch their boats from multiple boat ramps around the lake, allowing for easy access to different fishing areas. Whether it's a fishing boat, kayak, or pontoon boat, there's plenty of room to explore the lake's scenic shoreline and search for the best fishing spots.
Fishing Boat Rentals
Lake Berryessa Boat and Jet Ski Rentals
Rentals: Fishing boats, kayaks and pontoons
707 966-4204
Pleasure Cove Marina, CA
Rentals: Fishing boats, canoes, kayaks and pontoons
707 966-9600
Marinas
Pleasure Cove Marina, CA
6100 CA-128
Napa, CA 94558
707 966-9600
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Capell Cove Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, off Berryessa Knoxville Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Markley Cove Resort Boat Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, off Highway 128, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.
Pleasure Cove Launch Ramp
Located at the southernmost tip of the lake, off Wagg Canyon Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Putah Canyon Campground Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, in the northwest section of the lake, off Berryessa Knoxville Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Fishing Guides On Lake Berryessa
Tight Lines Fishing Guide Service - salmon, trout
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a California fishing license.
Camping facilities are available at Lake Berryessa, providing an opportunity for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. Several campgrounds are situated around the lake, offering a range of camping options from tent camping to RV camping. Camping near Lake Berryessa allows anglers to make the most of their fishing excursions and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Steele Canyon Campground - 877 386-4383
Canyon Creek Resort Campground - 530 795-4133
Oak Shores Day Use Area - 707 966-2111
Manzanita Canyon Campground
Lake Berryessa CA Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Lake Berryessa
Pleasure Cove Marina
6100 Highway 128
Napa California 94558
707 966-9600
Fishing lakes in each state.
101724
Lake Berryessa in Northern California.
CALIFORNIA
Quality largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass fishing in northwest CA.
