Carbon Canyon Park Lake in California is a cozy, family-friendly fishing spot perfect for bass, catfish, trout, and bluegill. Learn top techniques, lake details, amenities, and nearby lake ideas for an awesome angling day!

Carbon Canyon Park Lake Fishing Tips Guide

YouTube video
We Used Sonar To Find The Fish At Carbon Canyon!

Fishing License: Required for persons 16 years and older.

Carbon Canyon Park Lake in California is a calm, 4-acre fishing lake nestled in Carbon Canyon Regional Park, Brea (Orange County). With two fishing piers and regular stockings of trout in winter and catfish in summer, it’s perfect for beginners and families. You’ll cast your line under shade from redwoods, enjoy a picnic nearby, and easily reach the lake from parking lots. Regular anglers praise its accessible shore fishing and friendly vibe—ideal for helping kids learn to fish.

Lake Details

Carbon Canyon Park Lake Fishing Tips Guide Highlights 🎣 🐟 :

  • Carbon Canyon Park Lake is a small but well-stocked spot that offers year-round chances to hook fish. Its central location in the park, along with easy pier access and shaded banks, makes it a great choice for relaxing family outings and teaching new anglers the basics.
  • Fish Species Types:
    Rainbow Trout (winter): Use PowerBait, small spinners, spoons, or worms.
    Largemouth Bass: Try plastic worms, crankbaits; fish near structure.
    Bluegill: Use worms or crickets on light line near shallow areas. Channel Catfish (summer): Use stink baits, chicken liver on bottom rigs.
    Crappie and Occasionally Carp: Use small minnows or jigs.
  • Fishing Techniques, Methods & Tips:
    Pier & Shore Fishing: Easy access; ideal for kids and beginners.
    Bait Selection: Match bait by season—winter trout, summer catfish.
    Strike Zone: Fish near tree shade, structure, and deeper edges.
    Tackle Setup: Light rods 4‑8 lb test; bottom rigs for catfish, floats for trout and bluegill.
    Best Times: Early morning and late afternoon offer peak catches.
  • Fishing Conditions:
    The lake is regularly stocked: trout in winter, catfish in summer.
    Its small size and shaded banks offer calm, dependable fishing conditions.
    Water clarity can vary; fish can be spooked in bright sunlight—try shaded spots.
  • Boating Regulations:
    No boats or floats allowed at all—shore and pier fishing only.
    All anglers over 16 need a valid California fishing license.
    Fishing permitted during park hours (7 AM–6 PM fall/winter; 7 AM–9 PM spring/summer).
Carbon Canyon Park Lake Fishing Guide
  • 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
  • Carbon Canyon Park Lake
  • Location:
    Carbon Canyon Regional Park, 4442 Carbon Canyon Rd, Brea, CA (Orange County)
  • Elevation: 400 feet
  • Shoreline: 0.6 miles
  • Lake Size: 4 acres
  • Avg Depth: 8 ft
  • Max Depth: 15 ft
  • Avg Water Temp:
    55°F–80°F seasonally
  • GPS Coordinates:
    33.920° N, –117.901° W
  • Marinas:
    None; shore/pier access only
  • Boat Ramp Locations:
    None
  • Fishing Hours:
    7 AM–6 PM (Fall–Winter), 7 AM–9 PM (Spring–Summer)
  • Open Season:
    Year‑round; trout stocked in winter, catfish in summer
  • Websites:
  • Ocparks.com
  • Californiathroughmylens.com
  • Tripadvisor.com
  • Wildlife.ca.gov/Fishing

Lake Amenities

  • 🎣 Fishing Piers: Two sturdy piers for easy casting.
  • 🧺 Picnic Areas: Tables & BBQ grills near lake.
  • 🚶 Hiking Trails: 1.1-mile trail to redwood grove.
  • 🏞️ Redwood Grove: Unique coastal redwoods on-site. 🚻
  • Restrooms: Clean restrooms near lake & main park.
  • 🅿️ Parking Lots: Near lake entrance; fee-based ($3–$5).
  • 🏀 Sports Courts: Tennis, volleyball, softball fields.
  • 🎾 Playgrounds: Several playground areas.
  • 🚴 Bike Trails: Paved trails through scenic park.\
  • 🌳 Shelters: Reservable picnic shelters available.
  • 🐕 Pet-Friendly: Dogs allowed, on leash only.
  • 🧭 Nature Center: Park info, brochures, ranger programs.

Nearby Lakes

California Freshwater Fishing Regulations

Directions

Getting to Carbon Canyon Park Lake is part of the fun!

Driving to Carbon Canyon Park Lake is easy and fun! From Phoenix, take I‑10 West to CA‑57 North near Anaheim. Merge onto CA‑90 East (Imperial Hwy), then turn right onto Carbon Canyon Road. Follow the scenic road into Brea, and you’ll see signs for Carbon Canyon Regional Park. Once inside, follow signs to the lake and parking. It’s only about 30 minutes from Anaheim, but the drive feels like a peaceful escape with redwood views and hills around. Grab your rod and tackle as soon as you park—your relaxing fishing day starts as soon as you arrive!

FAQs

Yes, anglers 16+ need a California fishing license.

No—only pier and shore fishing is allowed.

Trout in winter; catfish in summer. Check OC Parks’ schedule.

7 AM–6 PM (Fall/Winter), 7 AM–9 PM (Spring/Summer).

Absolutely! Piers, playgrounds, trails, and restrooms.

Last Thoughts

Carbon Canyon Park Lake in Brea is your hidden fishing playground—cozy, welcoming, and full of life. Whether you’re targeting trout in the winter or catfish in the summer, its accessible piers and diverse fish make it a top pick for beginners and families. You’ll also love the shaded redwood grove, picnic areas, and walking trails around the lake. Remember your license, pack snacks, and enjoy a chill day casting into calm waters surrounded by beautiful hills. It’s a perfect spot to catch fish—and memories.