Fishing Lake Oroville In Northern CA
AKA: Oroville Reservoir
Popular Fish Species Lake Oroville, CA
Spotted Bass Fishing
Lake Oroville is considered by many to be the top bass lake in the state. It is home to many local, state and national bass tournaments annually. Spotted bass are are a favorite of many locals. Smallmouth bass and largemouth bass also reside here in decent numbers. Spots and are often found in small schools on steep banks, around rocky or sandy shorelines, points and ledges. They often prefer hanging out in slightly deeper water than largemouths. Here at Lake Oroville, they are a favorite of many local anglers, as they are plentiful and put up a good tussle when hooked. Fishing for spotted bass can be good anytime you can locate them. Their diet consists mainly of crayfish and insects, but they also eat small baitfish, small sunfish and small bluegill. Most of the time, spots prefer to stage on steep rocky or gravel banks, and may move up and down the water column throughout the day. When shallow, use topwater or shallow crankbaits around rip rap. When they are deep, use drop-shot worms and jigs. Throughout winter, spend your time on deeper structure with small worms, jigs and spoons.
Chinook Salmon Fishing
Chinook Salmon, like all Pacific salmon, die after spawning. Fishing for salmon can allow anglers the opportunity to catch large specimens. They grow large and put up a great fight when hooked. Chinook Salmon have been stocked in Lake Oroville for many years. Fish for chinook with down riggers to troll around the thermocline. Use flashers, trailed with bait for best results. The current California state record for chinook salmon stands at over 80 pounds. Chinook salmon are also known as king salmon.
Crappie Fishing
Crappie anglers can fish for both black crappie and white crappie at Lake Oroville. These two species tend to school separately. However, once located around cover, you may catch both species, as they often use the same cover. For best results when fishing for crappie, light line and small hooks are key, especially when fishing live or prepared baits. Crappie jigs are also productive her in a wide variety of colors. This is a good place to catch quantities of nice, fat slabs. Crappie fishing can be found in varying size schools, hanging around brush, vegetation, wood or other cover. Using a fish finder any time of year can help locate these crappie schools, which tend to stack vertically around cover. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 20 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels, especially areas with brush or timber in deeper water. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, redeye bass, channel catfish, black crappie, white crappie, rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout, bluegill, chinook salmon, coho salmon and white sturgeon at Lake Oroville in California.
Lake Oroville Fishing Video
With one of the broadest range of fish species in California, Lake Oroville has much to offer anglers with varied interests. This is a 15,800 acre lake, located in the north-central part of the state in Butte County. Fluctuating water levels often has an impact on the fishery, both positive and negative.
Lake Oroville, located in Northern California, is a renowned destination for fishing enthusiasts. The lake boasts a diverse range of fish species, making it an angler's paradise. Anglers can test their skills and try their luck in catching species such as bass, including largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass, as well as rainbow trout, Chinook salmon, catfish, and crappie. With its abundant fish population, Lake Oroville provides ample opportunities for anglers of all levels to enjoy a rewarding fishing experience.
Beyond fishing, boating, and camping, Lake Oroville offers a range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. The lake's clear blue waters invite swimmers to take a refreshing dip during the warmer months. Hiking and biking trails wind through the surrounding hills, offering breathtaking views and opportunities to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the area. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to spot bald eagles, osprey, deer, and other animals that call Lake Oroville home.
Lake Oroville in California is a prime destination for fishing, boating, camping, and outdoor recreation. With its diverse fish species, expansive waters for boating, and well-equipped campgrounds, the lake offers a memorable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Whether you're casting a line, cruising on a boat, pitching a tent, or simply enjoying the natural beauty, Lake Oroville provides a captivating setting to create lasting memories and enjoy the best that the outdoors has to offer.
When the levels are stable the fishing can be quite good. As one of the top bass fishing lakes in CA, it is host to plenty of bass fishing tournaments annually. In addition to big bass, there are quality crappie, catfish, trout and salmon swimming these waters. Fishing from shore, kayaks and other fishing boats are all options. There is a marina, boat rentals, public boat launches and plenty of camping options.
Primary fish species residing in Lake Oroville.
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Lake Oroville Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating enthusiasts will find Lake Oroville to be a haven for water recreation. The expansive lake offers plenty of space for boaters to explore and enjoy various activities. Whether it's leisurely cruising, water skiing, wakeboarding, or kayaking, there's something for everyone. The lake features multiple boat ramps and marinas, providing convenient access for boaters. With its calm waters and stunning scenic beauty, Lake Oroville sets the stage for unforgettable boating adventures.
Fishing Boat Rentals
Bidwell Canyon Marina
Rentals: Kayaks and pontoon boats
530 589-9175
Lime Saddle Marina
Rentals: Kayaks and pontoons
530 877-2883
Marinas
Bidwell Canyon Marina
801 Bidwell Canyon Rd
Oroville, CA 95966
530 589-9175
Lime Saddle Marina
3428 Pentz Rd
Paradise, CA 95969
530 877-2883
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Bidwell Canyon Boat Ramp
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, off Bidwell Canyon Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Enterprise Boat Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, off Rocky Point Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.
Loafer Creek Boat Ramp
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, off Loafer Creek Road, this is a multi-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Oroville Dam Boat Launch
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, off Orville Dam Road, this is a multi-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Stringtown Car-top Boat Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, off Stringtown Road, this is a portage area with paved parking.
Fishing Guides On Lake Oroville
Bass Union Guide Service - bass
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 at Lake Oroville is a popular choice for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. The lake offers several campgrounds, both developed and primitive, catering to different camping preferences. From lakeside campsites to shaded areas nestled among the trees, campers can choose their ideal spot to unwind and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. Amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and clean restrooms are available to enhance the camping experience. Whether you prefer tent camping or RV camping, Lake Oroville provides a picturesque setting to relax and connect with nature.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Lake Oroville State Recreation Area - 530 538-2219
Loafer Creek Campground - 530 538-2217
River Reflections RV Resort & Campground - 530 533-1995
Goat Ranch Campground
Lake Oroville CA Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Lake Oroville
Lake Oroville State Recreation Area
1416 9th Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
916 653-6995
Fishing lakes in each state.
101424
Lake Oroville in Northern California.
CALIFORNIA
A wide variety of warm-water and cold-water fishing in north-central CA.
