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Fishing At Lake Skinner In California With Jimmy Nsx Fishing Guide!

Skinner Lake in California offers excellent fishing for striped bass, largemouth bass, catfish, and trout. With boat rentals, campgrounds, and scenic views, it’s a favorite destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts year-round.

Summary

Lake Details

Fish Types

Gear & Tackle

Directions

Skinner Lake Fishing Tips & Tackle Guide

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CATCH and COOK- Striped bass skiff send Lake Skinner!

Fishing License: Required for persons 16 years and older.

Skinner Lake in California is a super fun and exciting place to go fishing! Located in Riverside County, this beautiful lake is surrounded by rolling hills and offers peaceful views, lots of open space, and plenty of fish to catch. Whether you’re fishing from a boat or relaxing on the shoreline, Skinner Lake has something for everyone. It’s a hot spot for catching striped bass, largemouth bass, catfish, trout, and more. The lake is stocked regularly, and the fish here grow big! With great facilities, boat ramps, and picnic areas, it’s easy to spend a full day—or weekend—enjoying the outdoors. Bring your family, your friends, or just yourself and cast a line in one of Southern California’s favorite fishing spots. If you love fishing, Skinner Lake is a must-visit!

Lake Details

Skinner Lake Fishing Tips & Tackle Guide Highlights 🎣 🐟 :

  • Skinner Lake is well-known for its great fishing all year long. Located near Temecula, the lake is easy to get to and offers calm waters perfect for boaters and shoreline anglers alike. The lake is stocked with trout in the cooler months and offers strong action for bass, catfish, and panfish throughout the year.
  • Fish Species Types:
    Striped Bass     – Best caught by trolling or using anchovies.
    Largemouth Bass – Try plastic worms or crankbaits near cover.
    Rainbow Trout – Use PowerBait, nightcrawlers, or spinners in cooler months.
    Catfish – Chicken liver, stink bait, or cut mackerel work well near the bottom.
    Bluegill – Small hooks with worms or mealworms are perfect.
    Crappie – Use small jigs near submerged trees or docks.
    Carp – Dough bait or corn on the bottom can work great.
  • Fishing Techniques, Methods & Tips:
    Troll deep     for stripers or cast from the dam area.
    Use light line and natural colors for clearer water.
    Fish early in the morning or late in the evening for best bites.
    Fish near submerged structures and shaded coves for bass and crappie.
  • Fishing Conditions:
    Skinner Lake has warm summers and mild winters. Trout fishing peaks from fall to spring. Bass and catfish bite well in spring, summer, and early fall. The water can get warm and a little murky in summer.
  • Boating Regulations:
    Boating is allowed with speed limits in place. Electric and gas-powered boats are welcome. Life jackets are required. Boats must pass an inspection to prevent invasive species. Lake is open daily, 6 AM to sunset.
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  • 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
  • Skinner Lake
  • Location: Winchester, near Temecula, CA, Riverside County
  • Elevation: 1,500 feet
  • Shoreline: 12 miles
  • Lake Size: 1,200 acres
  • Avg Depth: 50 feet
  • Max Depth: 100 feet
  • Avg Water Temp:
    55°F–78°F
  • GPS Coordinates:
    33.6411° N, 117.0420° W
  • Marinas:
    Lake Skinner Marina
  • Boat Ramp Locations:
    Located at the north side of the lake near the marina
  • Hours and Days Open:
    Open daily, 6:00 AM – Sunset
  • Websites:
  • Rivcoparks.org
  • Rockymountainrec.com
  • Tripadvisor.com
  • Wildlife.ca.gov/Fishing

Lake Amenities

  • 🎣 Fishing Piers – Several fishing spots for shore anglers
  • 🐟 Fish Cleaning Stations – Easy clean-up right by the water
  • 🚤 Boat Ramp Access – Convenient boat launching area
  • 🧊 Bait & Tackle Nearby – Find bait and gear near the lake
  • 🛶 Kayak & Canoe Access – Smooth waters for paddling anglers
  • 🏕️ Campgrounds – Full hook-up and tent camping available
  • 🧺 Picnic Areas – Covered spots with tables and grills
  • 🚽 Restrooms & Showers – Clean facilities for all visitors
  • 🌲 Nature Trails – Scenic hikes around the lake
  • 🔥 BBQ Grills – Cook up your catch right on site
  • 🦅 Wildlife Watching – Spot birds, deer, and rabbits nearby
  • 🧒 Playgrounds – Great fun for the kids!

Nearby Lakes

California Freshwater Fishing Regulations

2025 Freshwater Sport Fishing – California v12Download

Directions

Getting to Skinner Lake is part of the fun!

Driving to Skinner Lake is super easy and totally worth the trip! If you’re coming from the Los Angeles area, take I-15 South toward Temecula, then hop on Winchester Road (Highway 79) heading east. Watch for signs pointing to Lake Skinner Recreation Area—it’s just about 15 minutes from Temecula and well-marked. From San Diego, take I-15 North and follow the same directions through Temecula. Roads are paved, wide, and perfect for cars, RVs, and trailers. Once you arrive, there’s parking near the marina, day-use areas, and campgrounds. Don’t forget to grab your fishing license and check in at the gate. Whether you’re here for a quick fishing session or a full camping weekend, Skinner Lake is easy to find and fun to explore. Don’t be surprised if you spot deer or hawks on your way in—it’s all part of the adventure!

FAQs

Yes, a valid California fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older.

Spring and fall are great for bass and trout. Summer evenings are awesome for catfish.

No, boat rentals are not available, but you can launch your own boat or kayak.

Yes! The lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout in cooler months.

Yes, the Lake Skinner campground offers tent, RV, and full hook-up spots.

Last Thoughts

Skinner Lake in California is a go-to spot for fun, relaxing fishing trips. With so many types of fish, awesome shoreline, and beautiful mountain views, it’s easy to see why anglers love it here. Whether you’re into bass, trout, or catfish, this lake has it all. The calm waters are great for kayaks and boats, and there’s plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the day. Add in the clean campgrounds, hiking trails, and picnic spots, and you’ve got the perfect weekend getaway. So grab your gear, round up your fishing buddies or the whole family, and get out to Skinner Lake. It’s a Southern California gem that delivers great fishing and good times every season!