Fishing Lake Elsinore In Southern CA
Popular Fish Species Lake Elsinore, CA
Channel Catfish Fishing
To fish for catfish on Lake Elsinore, most any rod and reel will work, as long as the line is strong enough. For serious catfish enthusiasts, using the right equipment improves success. A medium action, to medium-heavy action rod is ideal, in the 6' to 7' range. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with popular catfish baits on at least 10-pound line. Use sharp hooks with bait holders on the shank, or circle hooks for live bait. Lake Elsinore has a decent population of channel catfish, and they are eager to bite. The typical fish are about 2 pounds, with larger ones caught frequently. Night fishing for catfish often delivers better results than daytime fishing. Fishing for channel catfish is often most productive around any kind of structure in the area. In Spring channel catfish migrate toward incoming water, so stay up river away from the main lake. In early summer look for rocky banks, the bigger the rocks the better. In summer and winter deeper structure is where to look. The river end of the lake is often the area where the bigger catfish are caught. Road beds, creek channels and rocky points are all good places to begin.
Crappie Fishing
Crappie anglers can fish for both black crappie and white crappie at Lake Elsinore. 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 12 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.
Bluegill Fishing
Fishing for bluegill is a time-honored tradition at Lake Elsinore. Young and old, beginners and seasoned anglers alike, all enjoy catching a bunch of fat bluegill. This year, much like recent years, the bluegill population is healthy and always looking for something to eat. Bluegill fishing is as basic as fishing gets. Any pole, reasonably small line and small hooks baited with anything edible, creates the ideal setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to position. Bluegill hang around brush, rocks, vegetation or any cover available.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, blue catfish, white catfish, black crappie, rainbow trout, bluegill, green sunfish, redear sunfish and striped bass at Lake Elsinore in California.
Lake Elsinore Fishing Video
At over 3,300 surface acres it is Southern California's largest freshwater lake. Is a getaway for a wide variety of outdoor and water sports. Lake Elsinore is surrounded by the town with multiple access points for boating, swimming, picnicking and walks along the shore.
Lake Elsinore, located in Southern California, is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. The lake boasts a variety of fish species, making it an excellent spot for anglers of all skill levels. One of the most sought-after species in Lake Elsinore is the largemouth bass. The lake is known for its trophy-sized bass, providing an exciting challenge for avid bass anglers. In addition to bass, the lake is home to other fish species such as catfish, crappie, bluegill, and carp, offering anglers a diverse range of fishing opportunities.
Lake Elsinore is not only a great fishing destination but also offers a range of recreational activities for visitors. The lake is known for its water sports, including jet skiing, wakeboarding, and water skiing. Anglers can take breaks from fishing to indulge in these thrilling water activities and make the most of their time on the lake.
Overall, Lake Elsinore provides a wonderful fishing experience with its diverse fish species, boating opportunities, and camping facilities. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, the lake's tranquil surroundings and abundant fishing options make it an ideal destination. Whether you're casting your line for bass, exploring the lake by boat, or enjoying a camping trip with family and friends, Lake Elsinore offers an enjoyable and memorable fishing experience in the heart of Southern California.
Camping facilities are available at the lake as well as in campgrounds and RV parks nearby. Boat rentals are available, hourly or by the day. Excellent boat launching facilities make lake access a breeze. Bring the entire family and enjoy a day at the lake.
Fishing At Lake Elsinore
Whether fishing from a boat or from shore, you have the opportunity to catch bass, crappie, bluegill, wipers and catfish. Fishing has improved with the addition of artificial structure and fish stockings. Plenty of bass over five pounds are showing up. Visit the California bass fishing page for tips and techniques for catching these quality bass.
Primary fish species residing in Lake Elsinore.
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Lake Elsinore 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
Lake Elsinore Fishing Reports, Forums & Blogs
Weekly fishing reports and photos.
Today's Weather & Forecast
Average high and average low, monthly temperatures at Lake Elsinore.
- January 66° - 39°
- February 68° - 41°
- March 72° - 43°
- April 77° - 47°
- May 84° - 52°
- June 91° - 57°
- July 98° - 62°
- August 98° - 66°
- September 94° - 59°
- October 83° - 52°
- November 73° - 44°
- December 66° - 38°
Boating is a popular activity on Lake Elsinore, allowing anglers to explore the vast waters and access different fishing spots. Whether you prefer cruising in a motorboat, paddling a kayak, or casting your line from a fishing boat, there are plenty of options available to suit your boating style. The lake is well-suited for boating, with several boat ramps and marinas providing convenient access to the water.
Marinas
Lake Elsinore Marina & RV Resort
32700 Riverside Dr Lot #117
Lake Elsinore, CA 92530
800 328-6844
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
SeaPort Boat Launch
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, off Lakeshore Drive, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking. - 951 245-9308
Launch Pointe Recreation Destination Boat Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off Riverside Drive, this is a six-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
La Laguna Resort & Boat Launch - 951 471-1212
Fishing Guides On Lake Elsinore
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.
For those who enjoy camping, Lake Elsinore offers several camping options nearby. Campgrounds with scenic views of the lake and surrounding mountains provide a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere for overnight stays. Whether you prefer tent camping or RV camping, there are facilities available to accommodate your needs. Camping near Lake Elsinore allows you to maximize your fishing time and enjoy the serene beauty of the area.
Camping & Campgrounds At Lake Elsinore
Crane Lakeside Park & RV Resort - 951 678-2112
Lake Elsinore Marina & RV Resort - 951 678-1300
Lake Park RV Resort - 888 505-2537
Lake Elsinore CA Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Lake Elsinore
City of Lake Elsinore
130 South Main Street
Lake Elsinore, CA 92530
951 674-3124
Fishing lakes in each state.
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Lake Elsinore in Southern California.
CALIFORNIA
Bass, crappie and catfish fishing in southwest CA.