Cachuma Lake, located just outside of Santa Barbara, is a beautiful and serene reservoir boasting solid bass and trout fisheries. Since the water at Cachuma is designated as drinking water, gas motors and their accompanying water sports enthusiasts are prohibited. The reduced noise and crowd pressure allow the fish to be more comfortable, and the fishing experience idyllic. For its size and proximity, Cachuma is amongst the quietest in California to fish.

With healthy vegetation across the lake, areas like Cachuma Bay, Jack Rabbit Flats, and Arrowhead Island are prime for largemouth bass from the early spring to summer. The grass not only provides ideal cover, but it also attracts huge numbers of baitfish... perfect forage for these ambush predators. Smallmouth are also in abundance in Cachuma, primarily near rocky outcroppings, shelves, and deep water transitions. As the water cools during winter, slow down your presentation for both largemouth and smallmouth, and focus on deep points in the main lake.

Late fall, winter, and early spring are dominated by rainbow trout. The cooler water moves them shallower, and shore-casting can be quite productive. Summer pushes the trout deep, and boat fishing may be necessary.

There are also crappie, channel cats, and some steelhead in Cachuma.

Accommodations are convenient, with cabin and yurt rentals available, as well as RV, tent, and group camping. There is substantial shoreline access and several fishing piers. As with many California reservoirs, water levels shift often and are highly variable. Keep updated for safety and to monitor fishing conditions.