O'Neill Forebay
Merced County, CA Bass, Catfish, Sunfish, Carp
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Fishing at O'Neill Forebay

O'Neill Forebay, located next to the massive San Luis Reservoir, may be smaller in size but it packs a big punch when it comes to fishing for striped bass. This lake has gained recognition as a top striped bass destination, with multiple fly-fishing line-class world records. Aside from the impressive striped bass fishery, O’Neill also features good fishing for largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish...

O'Neill Forebay, located next to the massive San Luis Reservoir, may be smaller in size but it packs a big punch when it comes to fishing for striped bass. This lake has gained recognition as a top striped bass destination, with multiple fly-fishing line-class world records. Aside from the impressive striped bass fishery, O’Neill also features good fishing for largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish.

Fall is considered the best time to fish at O'Neill Forebay for stripers, typically starting in late October when the cooler weather brings the fish to the surface. Typically, this is when the biggest fish are caught.

It's worth noting that O'Neill Forebay can get quite crowded, especially on weekends and holidays, throughout the warmer months.

Species:
Striped Bass, Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish, Smallmouth Bass, Spotted Bass, Common Carp, Bluegill
Trophy Fish
  • Striped Bass: 67 lb 8 oz (1992)
Boating / Access:
Open to all boating. Be aware of speed restrictions. Boats are prohibited at North Beach
Geography:
Surface Area: 2,250 acres
Surface Elevation: 225 ft

Latest Fishing Reports

Largemouth action continues to be solid at O'Neill, and not just for numbers. 4-5 pound fish are being caught fairly often. Soft plastics are still the name of the game. Senkos, ned rigs and shakey heads.

Largemouth Bass
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Bass action has been quite good for anglers throwing senkos and rubber worms. White bass are biting primarily on jerkbaits, flukes and other baitfish imitations.

Bass, White Bass
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Other Nearby Reports

Almaden has been churning out some chunky bass and slap crappie this spring. Anglers are getting bigger bass on jigs and long soft plastic worms, while dropshots and ned rigs...

As the water warms at Calero, the grass is getting thicker, but so are the bass! Quality fish are being caught all over the lake, with a couple of reports of fish just over 7...

O'Neill Forebay Weather

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Guides & Tackle Shops

O'Neill Forebay Map

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