The California Department of Fish and Game (DFG) stocked the reservoir with rainbow trout during the spring of 2012 after a three-year hiatus (during which time the Department sorted through a broad environmental lawsuit over its hatchery practices). DFG provided two, 1,000-pound trout plants at that time and fishing was measurably improved over the prior few years during the stocking hiatus, though it was a modest restart of a program that once released 16,000 pounds of trout in a single year into the reservoir. We are hopeful that stocking will continue and possibly increase in the spring of 2013.
Largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish also maintain populations in the reservoir. All California State Fish and Game regulations apply. Fishing is permitted only when the Recreation Area is open.
Juvenile Oncorhynchus mykiss. Photo courtesy of NOAA Fisheries
Boat Restrictions at Loch Lomond
Due to the concern regarding contamination of the lake with aquatic invasive species such as Eurasian mussels, private boat launching will be restricted to boats that are stored at Loch Lomond for the season. There is a $25.00 inspection/decontamination fee as well as a $200 annual storage fee.
Entrance and launch fees still apply. Annual passes are also available for sale. Space is limited to about 100 boats. (Boat trailer space is not currently available.) Park staff can be contacted by calling 831-335-7424 for more information. The lake has a substantial boat rental fleet that is available on a first-come, first-served basis.