Mile Square Park Lake in California offers fun, family-friendly fishing with catfish, bluegill, bass, trout & carp. Discover top techniques, lake info, amenities, and nearby lakes for your next fishing outing!

Mile Square Park Lake Fishing Tips& Tackle Guide

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SoCal Lake Series: First time fishing the Big Lake (Mile Square Regional Park)!

Fishing License: Required for persons 16 years and older.

Mile Square Park Lake in California is a peaceful urban oasis nestled within Mile Square Regional Park in Fountain Valley. Consisting of two connected lakes inside this 607-acre park, the waters host catfish, bluegill, largemouth bass, trout, and carp. With fishing piers and quiet shorelines perfect for casting, it’s popular with beginners, families, and pros. Shadows from nearby trees keep the water cool and fish active. The lakes are regularly stocked, and with no boats allowed, anglers can focus on relaxing, catching fish, and enjoying the park’s trails, picnic areas, and wildlife.

Mile Square Park Lake Fishing Tips& Tackle Guide Highlights 🎣 🐟 :

  • Fish Types: Anglers can expect to catch species such as rainbow trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, catfish, and carp.
  • Stocked Fish: The park features two fishing lakes that are regularly stocked with rainbow trout during the winter months and channel catfish in the summer, enhancing the fishing experience.
  • Boating Info: No, boating or watercraft/floats are not allowed at the lake.

Lake Details

Mile Square Park Lake Fishing Tips& Tackle Guide Highlights 🎣 🐟 :

  • Mile Square Park Lake is a dependable spot for anglers of all levels. Its calm, urban waters are stocked seasonally—with trout in winter and catfish in summer—while bass, bluegill, and carp swim year-round. Easy shoreline and pier access make it convenient for families, seniors, and new anglers to fish and enjoy nature without hassle.
  • Fish Species Types:
    Rainbow Trout: Thrive in winter; catch with PowerBait, spinners, or worms.
    Channel Catfish: Best in warmer months using stink bait or chicken liver on bottom rig.
    Largemouth Bass: Cast plastic worms, crankbaits around piers and shady banks.
    Bluegill: Use small worms or crickets on a bobber near shallow cover.
    Crappie: Fish near docks with small jigs or minnows in spring.
    Carp: Catch with corn or doughballs near muddy edges.
  • Fishing Techniques, Methods & Tips:
    Pier & Shore Fishing: Bring light tackle; easy and relaxing for all anglers
    Bait Guidance: Winter = trout; Summer = catfish; Year-round = bass, bluegill, carp
    Structure Fishing: Cast near piers, tree shadows & vegetation
    Gear Setup: 6–12 lb test lines; bobbers for sunfish, bottom rigs for catfish/carp
    Top Times: Early mornings and late afternoons offer best chances in summer
  • Fishing Conditions:
    – The lakes are stocked regularly: trout (winter), catfish (summer)
    – Calm, urban setting means easy float or pier fishing
    – Tree coverage keeps conditions pleasant even on hot days
  • Boating Regulations:
    – No boats permitted, but model sailboats are allowed
    – One fishing pole per angler; CA fishing license required for 16+
    – Practice catch-and-release for bass and crappie
Mile square park lake fishing tips report guide california 01
  • 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
  • Mile Square Park Lake
  • Location:
    Mile Square Regional Park, Fountain Valley, Orange County
  • Elevation: 30 ft
  • Shoreline: 1 mile total between two lakes
  • Lake Size: 8 acres combined
  • Avg Depth: 12 ft
  • Max Depth: 12 ft
  • Avg Water Temp:
    55°F–85°F seasonally
  • GPS Coordinates:
    33.742° N, –117.993° W
  • Marinas:
    None
  • Boat Ramp Locations:
    None, except model sailboats only
  • Fishing Hours:
    7 AM–6 PM (Fall–Winter), 7 AM–9 PM (Spring–Summer)
  • Open Season:
    Year-round, with seasonal stocking of trout and catfish
  • Websites:
  • Ocparks.com
  • Funorangecountyparks.com
  • Yelp.com
  • Wildlife.ca.gov/Fishing

Lake Amenities

  • 🎣 Fishing Piers – Multiple piers for easy casting
  • 🐟 Designated Fishing Areas – Plenty of shoreline access
  • Model Sailboats Allowed – RC boats welcomed
  • 🧺 Picnic Tables – Scattered around lake sides
  • 🚻 Restrooms – Several clean facilities nearby
  • 🅿️ Ample Parking – Large parking lots
  • 🚶 Walking Trails – Scenic loop around lakes
  • 🚴 Bike Paths – Paved trails for cycling
  • 🏀 Sports Courts – Tennis, basketball, volleyball
  • 🍔 BBQ Grills – Public charcoal grills available
  • 👶 Playgrounds – Fun areas for kids
  • 🐾 Dog-Friendly – Leashed pets allowed
  • 🐦 Birdwatching – Waterfowl and wildlife sightings
  • 💪 Fitness Course – Outdoor exercise stations
  • 🌳 Shade Trees – Plenty of shade for comfort

California Freshwater Fishing Regulations

Directions

Getting to Mile Square Park Lake is part of the fun!

Driving to Mile Square Park Lake is easy and fun! From I‑405, take the Brookhurst Street exit; head south into Fountain Valley. Turn left onto Heil Ave and follow signs into the park. Park near the lake parking lot and walk a short path to the fishing piers. The drive takes about 20‑30 minutes from Anaheim and winds past green fields and tree-lined pathways. Pack your rod, bring bait and license, and settle into a relaxing spot—peaceful fishing awaits!

FAQs

Yes—California license required for anglers 16+.

No full-size boats; RC sailboats only.

Trout (winter) and catfish (summer); bluegill, bass, crappie & carp year-round.

One pole per angler—park rule.

Early mornings and late evenings are prime times.

Last Thoughts

Mile Square Park Lake in California is a great urban getaway for anglers. With diverse fish—trout, catfish, bass, bluegill, crappie, and carp—and easy shoreline access along piers and shaded banks, it suits families and solo anglers alike. The park’s trails, picnic spots, playgrounds, and fitness course make it perfect for a full-day outing. Just bring your gear, license, and bait, and enjoy peaceful fishing and parkside fun!