Fishing at Lake Del Valle

Located in the foothills of Alameda County, Lake Del Valle boasts one of the most varied fisheries in California, hosting trout, bass, salmon, sturgeon, stripers, and catfish. While the diversity of fish is impressive, the quality of fish is equally notable, as evidenced by the lake records (refer to the records table below). Recently the largemouth bass population has seen significant growth...

Recently the largemouth bass population has seen significant growth. Both smallmouth bass and stripers are present in good numbers, and angling for bass could potentially yield all three types. Given the plethora of species in the lake, bass have a wide variety of prey to choose from. Therefore, when selecting lures, it's wise to consider the predominant species present during that particular season.

During the winter, trout fishing thrives, with fish being stocked throughout the colder months. Occasionally, trophy-sized trout are also added. Trolling is the preferred method for many anglers, but those fishing from the shore often succeed near the boat launch or other areas close to deeper waters. It's worth noting that both kokanee and king salmon were stocked previously, but it seems their populations didn't establish well.

For those looking to spend more time at the lake, boat rentals, camping, and hiking opportunities are available, making Lake Del Valle an ideal spot for a weekend excursion.

Read Less

Species:

Rainbow Trout, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Striped Bass, White Sturgeon, Channel Catfish, Black Crappie, White Crappie, Lightning Trout, King Salmon, Kokanee Salmon

Fish Stocking:

Catfish stocked 2 weeks ago - View Schedule

Trophy Fish

Largemouth Bass: 18 lb 2 oz
Rainbow Trout: 22.6 lb
Smallmouth Bass: 5 lb 12oz
Striped Bass: 40 lb
Sturgeon: 25 lb

Boating / Access:

Most boats allowed. 10 mph speed limit. Must be inspected before launch

Geography:

Max Depth: 154 ft

Surface Area: 709.12 acres

Surface Elevation: 500 ft

Latest Fishing Reports

View all

Lake Del Valle

1 day ago

@fishcaddynorcal

Public

Plenty of action at Del Valle as the summer months approach. East Bay Parks have begun their catfish stockings, with the latest occurring during the week of June 16th. Shrimp and chicken livers are proving effective. The bass bite remains strong as the fish transition into post-spawn, a common trend...

The bass bite remains strong as the fish transition into post-spawn, a common trend among many California bass lakes right now. The morning topwater bite is active and should only improve throughout July. Throughout the day, smallmouth bass are holding near rocky drop-offs and points, hitting on small jerkbaits and spinners. Largemouth bass are responding to reaction baits early, then finesse soft-plastics as the weather warms.

Even trout are still being caught, primarily on the north side near the dam. Aim deep!

Read Less

Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Catfish

76°F Clear

Lake Del Valle

May 31

@fishcaddynorcal

Public

Del Valle is providing excellent fishing right now for a variety of species. The last stock of the season was on May 12 with 1,000 pounds of Lassen trout, and anglers are still catching'em. Kastmasters and PowerBait have been working well for both the recent stockers and a few larger lightning trout...

Bass action is very good for both largemouth and smallmouth. Both are hitting soft plastics and reaction baits (crankbaits and Rapalas), but smallies are holding in much deeper water (15-20 feet) off steep drop offs and points. Catfish action has also been good on cut bait, and there are rumblings of a good striper bite picking up shortly.

Read Less

Trout, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Catfish