Across the bay from San Francisco is the scenic 866-acre San Pablo Reservoir. Thousands of pounds of rainbow trout (and some lightning trout) are stocked yearly, making them the lake's primary targets. Bass, catfish, and panfish are also available in good numbers during the warmer months.

Rainbow trout are typically stocked at three different locations spread evenly across San Pablo. The closed season in winter reduces fishing pressure and allows some of the trout to grow to impressive sizes—with the lake record surpassing 20 pounds. In spring and fall, the cooler water temperatures often lead trout closer to the shore, making bank fishing a viable option. However, during summer, as trout venture to deeper waters, boat fishing becomes more neccesary.

San Pablo also offers a solid bass fishery, featuring both largemouth and spotted bass. The many coves, brush, and downed trees give the largemouth plenty of cover. Summer water temperatures peak in the 70s (not overly warm), so the largemouth typically stay shallow throughout the warmer months. As both the weather and water temperatures drop, spotted bass activity rises. Since spots usually dwell deeper than largemouth bass, so cast accordingly.

Catfish are plentiful on San Pablo with the support from occasional stockings, and some reach over 10 pounds. Steep drops and shelves near deep water are great starting points, although flats can be epic in summer evenings. Crappie, bluegill, and other panfish also relate to the excellent cover spread along the lake’s western shoreline.