Lafayette Reservoir
Contra Costa County Trout, Bass, Catfish, Crappie, Sunfish
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Lafayette Reservoir Fishing Overview

Water Description

Lafayette Reservoir, situated in the East Bay hills, spans 126 acres and provides a popular fishery for both cold and warm water species. From winter to spring, anglers focus predominantly on trout. Both CDFW and EBMUD consistently stock the lake. The majority of these trout measure the standard 10-12 inches, though occasionally, larger trophy fish are stocked. During the early spring, the influx of anglers can make shore fishing challenging due to the limited space and crowds. To mitigate this, it's advisable to fish during early mornings or...

Lafayette Reservoir, situated in the East Bay hills, spans 126 acres and provides a popular fishery for both cold and warm water species.

From winter to spring, anglers focus predominantly on trout. Both CDFW and EBMUD consistently stock the lake. The majority of these trout measure the standard 10-12 inches, though occasionally, larger trophy fish are stocked. During the early spring, the influx of anglers can make shore fishing challenging due to the limited space and crowds. To mitigate this, it's advisable to fish during early mornings or on weekdays.

Largemouth bass are another highlight at Lafayette. Each year, a handful of trophy-sized bass are caught. The stocked rainbow trout serve as a significant food source, aiding in these bass reaching trophy status. While many of the bass caught weigh between 1-2 pounds, it's not uncommon to catch bass weighing over 5 pounds. However, the increased fishing pressure in summer can affect the frequency of bites.

While the use of gas motors is not allowed, electric motors are permitted. Many anglers choose to fish at Lafayette from kayaks or the shoreline. There’s plenty to do in the area for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The area includes bike/hike trails, a playground, picnic areas, etc. Please note, day use fees do apply and annual passes are available.

Species:
Rainbow Trout, Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish, Crappie, Bluegill
Stocked Date:
Trout stocked 3 months ago - View Schedule
Boating / Access:
No gas motos. Electric motors, kayaks okay. Rentals available.
Geography:
Surface Area: 126 acres
Surface Elevation: 500 ft
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Latest Fishing Reports

Trip Report
1 Rainbow Trout
62°F Sunny with No Wind
55°F Clear

Managed to wet a line between precipitative systems mid week. Nice weather but slow action overall. But you never know it takes one bite. Ended up with an 8.8lb Rainbow Trout. The fish was so big in girth, it reminded me of the Steelhead I have caught. Strange enough, the fish had no pectoral fins but fought like hell trying to go beneath the dock...

Managed to wet a line between precipitative systems mid week.
Nice weather but slow action overall.
But you never know it takes one bite.
Ended up with an 8.8lb Rainbow Trout.
The fish was so big in girth, it reminded me of the Steelhead I have caught. Strange enough, the fish had no pectoral fins but fought like hell trying to go beneath the dock. A memorable day!

7 anglers found this report useful
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Good Trout bite
Trout, Bass

Lafayette is set for another trout stocking this week, following two in early December. You might spot a few trout cruising shallow—try throwing a Panther Martin or jig. But the go-to methods here are PowerBait or floated nightcrawlers, usually cast and soaked from one of the fishing docks. Some folks rent a boat and troll with spoons. With water...

Lafayette is set for another trout stocking this week, following two in early December. You might spot a few trout cruising shallow—try throwing a Panther Martin or jig. But the go-to methods here are PowerBait or floated nightcrawlers, usually cast and soaked from one of the fishing docks. Some folks rent a boat and troll with spoons.

With water temps dropping, bass action has slowed, though a 4-pounder was nailed last week on an underspin. This time of year, your best bet for bass is working slow finesse techniques, like a drop-shot with a small soft plastic, fished deep.

10 anglers found this report useful
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Latest Stockings

Trout CDFW
Trout CDFW
Trout CDFW

Other Nearby Reports

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The trout action continues to be very good, with a fresh 1,000-pound plant of Lassen rainbows and lightning trout dropped in last week, and more plants are expected throughout...

Lafayette Reservoir Weather

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Guides & Tackle Shops

Lafayette Reservoir Map

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