Fishing

Year-Round Fishing is available at Bullards Bar Reservoir. A variety of cold and warm water species are abundant with a reputation as having some of the best Kokanee Salmon fishing in northern California.

Kokanee Salmon is a land locked sockeye salmon species that is the primary and target cold water fishery at Bullards Bar. Kokanee and trout fishing generally picks up in the spring. Sizeable catches can be often found near the dam, up the north fork arm of the lake, near the Willow Creek inlet and Mill Creek Cove. As the water clears, begin trolling in 35 to 45 feet of water. As the water becomes warmer, the fish begin to move into deeper water even up to 90 feet. Kokanee fishing is excellent in the fall during the spawning season. Wedding rings, needlefish, flings, and triple teasers are preferred on the end of flashers and dodgers. Bait anglers find success using nightcrawlers and powerbait.

Bass fishing at Bullards Bar is some of the area’s best. Largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass can be found early in the season near the mouths of creeks and rocky points. Spinnerbaits and weighted plastic worms work best. Try grubs and jigs later in the year. Topwater baits are effective early in the morning or during twilight. Bass are also found in shallow areas during spawning season.

“I travel all over the country chasing fish for a living. I have been on a lot of beautiful lakes, but few are as scenic as Bullards Bar Reservoir. One of my favorite things to do during the off season is to take my family to Emerald cove marina and rent a houseboat for the week. The fishing is great the water is clean and we have a blast! So if you are looking for a great vacation, book one of their houseboats and have a trip of a lifetime. I hope to see you there.”

Skeet Reese, 2009 BassMaster Classic Champion

Crappie and Bluegill are usually found in 10 to 20 feet of water in coves and around submerged brush and debris. Try white or yellow mini jigs, bread, or worms.

Don’t forget to stop by the Emerald Cove General Store for your fishing tackle and bait needs.

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