Santee Lakes Fishing Guide 🎣

YouTube video
How to Catch Fish at Santee Lakes, San Diego! (TONS OF FISH)

Santee Lakes Fishing Guide 🎣, in Santee, California, is a fun and family-friendly spot for fishing and outdoor activities. With seven lakes to choose from, it’s a great place for anglers of all ages and skill levels. The lakes are stocked with fish like catfish, trout, and bass, so there’s always a chance to reel in a good catch. You can fish from the shore, docks, or even rent a pedal boat for extra fun on the water. The park surrounding the lakes is packed with amenities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, walking trails, and even cabins for overnight stays. It’s a perfect spot for a family outing, a relaxing solo trip, or just some fun with friends. The peaceful vibe and beautiful scenery make Santee Lakes a local favorite for fishing and enjoying the great outdoors. It’s a must-visit for outdoor lovers! 🎣 🐟

Lake Details

Santee Lakes Fishing Guide 🎣 Highlights 🎣 🐟 :

  • Fish Species: The seven lakes are regularly stocked with catfish and rainbow trout on a seasonal basis. Bass and bluegill are also prevalent.
  • Fishing Access: Lakes 1 through 5 are designated for day-use fishing, while Lakes 6 and 7 are reserved for registered campground guests.
  • Permits and Licenses: No state fishing license is required; a fishing permit from the General Store is all you need.
  • Fishing Rates: As of the latest information, the rates are:
  • Adult Day Permit (Ages 16+): $10
  • Senior Permit (Ages 60+): $6
  • Junior Permit (Ages 15 and under): $6
  • Extra Pole Stamp: $4
  • Fishing Events: Santee Lakes hosts various fishing events throughout the year, including night fishing sessions during the summer months. For example, the Catfish Opener is scheduled for April 20 & 21, 2024, with 2,500 lbs. of catfish to be stocked.
  • Amenities: The park offers amenities such as a campground, picnicking areas, boating, playgrounds, and a sprayground, enhancing the overall recreational experience.
YouTube video
San Diego Freshwater Bass Fishing Santee Lakes, California With Some Catch Company Lures | SDFS |

Top Fish at Santee Lakes Lake 🐟

Lake Information

  • Name/Location:
    Santee Lakes
  • Address:
    9310 Fanita Parkway
    Santee CA 92071
  • County: San Diego County
  • Hours:
  • Varies. See website for more info
  • Website:
  • Santeelakes.com
  • Fishing License: No State fishing license required. A fishing permit from the General Store is all you need

Lake Amenities

  • Stocked lakes
  • Fishing events
  • Exclusive fishing for campground guests
  • Floating cabins
  • Boating
  • Camping
  • Picnic areas
  • Playgrounds
  • Two swimming pools, including one heated
  • Spa
  • Laundry facilities
  • Clubhouse
  • Bark Park off-leash pet area 

Fish Types

Bass Fishing

Fish Spots & Tips

  • Where to Fish for Bass:
    Fishing along the shoreline and inlets is great for catching Bass. Look for spots with vegetation, fallen branches, and rocks where these fish like to hide.
  • Bass Fishing Tips:
    Bass thrive in warmer waters and are most active during the spring and summer
  • Baits: Live shad, crayfish, and plastic worms
  • Lures: Crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and topwater lures
  • Tackle: Medium to heavy spinning or baitcasting gear with 8-12 lb test line

Rainbow Trout Fishing

Fish Spots & Tips

  • Where to Fish for Rainbow Trout:
    Center of the lake offers deeper, cooler waters in the center of the lake are ideal for catching Rainbow Trout. You can reach these areas by casting from the fishing docks or using a small boat if allowed.
  • Rainbow Trout Fishing Tips:
    Suspend these baits on the right at different depths with a bobber.
  • Baits: PowerBait, worms, and small minnows
  • Lures: Spinners, spoons, and small jigs
  • Tackle: Light to medium spinning gear with 4-6 lb test line

Bluegill Fishing

Fish Spots & Tips

  • Where to Fish for Bluegill:
    Bluegill are commonly found in the shallow areas of the lake, especially around docks and vegetation.
  • Bluegil Fishing Tips:
    They are active throughout the day, particularly in the summer.
  • Baits: Worms, crickets, and small pieces of bread
  • Lures: Tiny jigs and small spinners
  • Tackle: Ultra-light spinning gear with 2-4 lb test line

CatFish Fishing

Fish Spots & Tips

  • Where to Fish for Catfish:
    Channel Catfish are bottom dwellers and can be found in the deeper, murkier parts of the lake.
  • Catfish Fishing Tips:
    Catfish are popular among night anglers. They are most active after sunset.
  • Baits: Stink bait, chicken liver, and cut bait
  • Lures: Not commonly used, as they prefer natural baits
  • Tackle: Medium to heavy spinning or baitcasting gear with 12-20 lb test line

Gear & Tackle

Directions

FAQs

Santee Lakes are stocked with catfish and rainbow trout seasonally. Other species include bass, bluegill, and carp, offering a variety of fishing opportunities for anglers.

No, a California fishing license is not required to fish at Santee Lakes. However, a fishing permit must be purchased daily from the General Store or online through the Santee Lakes website.

Fishing is allowed during the park’s operational hours, typically from sunrise to sunset. Anglers must adhere to Santee Lakes’ specific rules, including catch limits and restrictions on certain bait types. Consult posted regulations for detailed guidelines.

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