Craig Park Lake in California is a peaceful urban fishing spot stocked with catfish, bluegill, bass, and trout. Learn top techniques, lake details, park amenities, and nearby fishing spots for a fun family day!
Summary
Lake Details
Fish Types
Gear & Tackle
Directions
Craig Park Lake Fishing Tips: Best Bait & Tackle Guide 🎣
Fishing License: Required for persons 16 years and older.
Craig Park Lake in California is a lovely 3-acre lake tucked inside Ted Craig Regional Park in Fullerton, Orange County. Surrounded by grassy hills, picnic spots, and shaded trails, this lake welcomes everyone—from kids learning to fish to pros honing their skills. It’s stocked regularly with channel catfish and bluegill, plus a surprise mix of bass and trout. With two fishing piers and calm water, you can cast from shore or the dock and enjoy easy, relaxing fishing under mature trees.
Craig Park Lake Fishing Tips: Best Bait & Tackle Guide 🎣 Highlights 🎣 🐟 :
Fish Types: Anglers can catch largemouth bass, bluegill, spotted bass, smallmouth bass, steelhead, and black bullhead.
Stocked Fish: The park features a 3-acre lake that is stocked with rainbow trout during the winter months and channel catfish in the summer.
Boating Info: No, boating or watercraft/floats are not allowed at the lake.
Misc: The lake is equipped with two piers to facilitate fishing activities.
Craig Park Lake Fishing Tips: Best Bait & Tackle Guide 🎣 Highlights 🎣 🐟 :
Craig Park Lake is a friendly spot for urban anglers and families. It’s stocked at least once a year with catfish and bluegill, and locals enjoy catching bass and trout too. With two piers and easy shore access, it’s simple to spend the day catching fish while enjoying the park’s natural beauty.
Fish Species Types: Channel Catfish: Best fished with stink baits or chicken liver on bottom rigs. Bluegill: Use worms or crickets under a bobber near shallow areas. Largemouth Bass: Cast plastic worms or crankbaits near structures or at dusk. Smallmouth & Spotted Bass: Similar tactics to largemouth; fish near shade or structure. Rainbow Trout: Sometimes stocked in cooler months; try PowerBait or small spinners.
Fishing Techniques, Methods & Tips: Pier and Shore Fishing: Ideal for beginners—cast from piers or edge. Bait Match by Species: Summer: catfish baits; cooler months: PowerBait for trout. Structure Fishing: Fish around docks, rocky edges, and shaded spots. Light Tackle Setup: 6–12 lb test line, bobbers for bluegill, bottom rigs for catfish.
Fishing Conditions: The lake is stocked annually with catfish and bluegill, plus occasional trout. The calm, urban water and proximity to trees make it great for steady, easy fishing. Morning and late afternoon yield the best catches—cooler water triggers more fish activity.
Boating Regulations: No full-size boats—only model sailboats are allowed on the water. All anglers 16+ must have a California fishing license. One pole per angler is enforced.
For the most current information on fishing conditions, regulations, and amenities, it’s advisable to consult the California Department of Fish & Wildlife‘s official resources or contact local authorities directly.
Lake Information
Name
Craig Park Lake
Location: Ted Craig Regional Park, 3300 State College Blvd, Fullerton, CA (Orange County)
Elevation: 400 feet
Shoreline: 0.6 miles
Lake Size: 3 acres
Avg Depth: 8 ft
Max Depth: 15 ft
Avg Water Temp: 55°F–85°F seasonally
GPS Coordinates: 33.870° N, –117.922° W
Boat Access: Only model sailboats allowed; no full-size boats or floats:
Driving to Craig Park Lake is easy and fun! From I‑5, take Alicia Parkway and head east to La Paz Road. Turn left and follow the signs into the Regional Park entrance. You’ll find parking close by—grab your gear and stroll down one of the paved trails to the lake’s shore or piers. As you drive in, take in the shade trees and open green space; it feels almost like a natural urban escape. The route is simple, scenic, and stress‑free—makes you feel like a rockstar angler before even casting your line!
FAQs
Yes—Anglers aged 16+ must have a California Department of Fish and Wildlife license along with OC Parks entry fee.
Trout are stocked from November through April, with weekly to monthly trout plants from CDFW/OC Parks.
Chicken liver, stink bait, or nightcrawlers on the bottom are top choices for cats.
No—only shore and pier fishing allowed; all float tubes or boats are prohibited.
Park is open 7 am–9 pm during daylight savings, and 7 am–6 pm rest of the year.
Last Thoughts
Craig Park Lake in Fullerton is a hidden urban treasure for anglers. Stocked with catfish and bluegill, and home to bass and trout, it’s great for easy fishing from tranquil piers. The park’s trails, playgrounds, sports courts, and rose garden keep the whole family entertained. With single-pole fishing, no boats, and straightforward rules, it’s stress-free and fun. Spend a morning or afternoon casting lines, spotting birds, and enjoying the green space. Pack snacks, bring your license, and head to this local gem for a memorable day on the water!
Disclaimer: The information provided on https://fishingdirectories.org/ regarding Craig Park Lake Fishing Tips: Best Bait & Tackle Guide 🎣 website page is intended for general reference only. While we make every effort to ensure the content is accurate and up to date, we cannot guarantee the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information and is always subject to change. The content is provided “as is,” without warranties of any kind. For the most current and official updates, we recommend visiting the official lake’s website or relevant government agency website.
