Lake Perris
Riverside County, CA Trout, Bass, Catfish, Crappie
13 Share

Fishing at Lake Perris

Lake Perris is famed for its impressive spotted bass population, boasting several line-class world records. Alongside its reputation for spotted bass, the lake hosts a solid fishery for largemouth bass and rainbow trout. The spotted bass at Lake Perris can get big... very big. It has produced dozens of double-digit spots, with the lake record weighing in at an impressive 14 pounds, 2 ounces. But...

Lake Perris is famed for its impressive spotted bass population, boasting several line-class world records. Alongside its reputation for spotted bass, the lake hosts a solid fishery for largemouth bass and rainbow trout.

The spotted bass at Lake Perris can get big... very big. It has produced dozens of double-digit spots, with the lake record weighing in at an impressive 14 pounds, 2 ounces. But these big spots can be quite elusive. Some suggest there's more consistent action focusing on largemouth bass.

The lake's record for largemouth bass stands at an astounding 17 pounds, 6 ounces. To lure one of these giants, try using big trout imitation swimbaits. For smaller largies, topwater plugs can be extremely productive, as long as the water isn’t too cold.

Lake Perris is also home to a healthy population of rainbow trout, which are regularly stocked by the CDFW. These trout provide good action for both trollers and shoreline bait dunkers in the cooler months, when bass fishing can be sluggish.

It's worth noting that during the summer and fall, the lake becomes a hotspot for water-skiers. For a quieter experience, consider fishing during the early or late hours in the warmer seasons.

Species:
Rainbow Trout, Largemouth Bass, Spotted Bass, Striped Bass, Channel Catfish, Black Crappie, White Crappie, Channel Catfish
Fish Stocking: Trout
Forage / Baitfish:
Crawfish, Threadfin Shad
Trophy Fish
  • Largemouth Bass: 17 lb 6 oz
  • Spotted Bass: 9 lb 4.5 oz
  • Catfish: 30 lb
  • Rainbow Trout: 7 lb
  • Bluegill: 3 lb 15 oz
Boating / Access:
Open to all boating
Geography:
Max Depth: 85 ft
Surface Area: 2,250 acres
Surface Elevation: 1,563 ft

Latest Fishing Reports

A significant algae bloom was treated in the second week of June. Despite concerns about the treatment affecting fishing, it has had minimal impact. Bass anglers continue to find success around the lake, particularly using finesse presentations in rocky areas from 5-15 feet. Notably, drop-shotting...

A significant algae bloom was treated in the second week of June. Despite concerns about the treatment affecting fishing, it has had minimal impact. Bass anglers continue to find success around the lake, particularly using finesse presentations in rocky areas from 5-15 feet. Notably, drop-shotting, ned rigs, and Neko rigs have been most effective. However, the reaction bite (topwater, crankbaits) has been far less consistent.

Bass

Better late than never! The spring bass bite at Perris has been slow so far, but it's all changing now. The consistent warming weather has fired up these fish, and they are now very active. Topwater, swimbaits, crankbaits, and jigs are all catching fish. If those aren't working, finessing a drop...

Better late than never! The spring bass bite at Perris has been slow so far, but it's all changing now. The consistent warming weather has fired up these fish, and they are now very active. Topwater, swimbaits, crankbaits, and jigs are all catching fish. If those aren't working, finessing a drop-shot is guaranteed to get bites. A local angler caught a 9+ pounder a few weeks ago, so bigger bass are available. However, most fish are weighing in between 1-3 pounds.

The crappie bite is improving as well. Look for submerged brush in 15-20 feet of water.

Bass, Crappie

Other Nearby Reports

The bass bite at Lake Elsinore has slowed down slightly, but anglers are still catching fish. Preferred lure choices vary among anglers. Some report success only with drop...

Another late-season trout stock the week of June 9th has reinvigorated the trout bite. However, due to warming water and significant algae growth, these fish are seeking the...

Lake Perris Weather

Loading Weather...

Guides & Tackle Shops

Lake Perris Map

13 Share

Nearby Lakes & Rivers

13 miles away
Bass, Crappie, Catfish, Sunfish, Carp
15 miles away
Trout, Bass, Catfish, Crappie, Carp, Sunfish
Trout stocked 3 months ago
Bass, Trout, Catfish, Crappie, Sunfish
Last report: 2 weeks ago

Create your Free Account

Get updates from your favorite local water, and track your own fishing trips.

Sign Up