Irvine Lake is considered a “big fish” destination for Southern California anglers, offering a wide variety of species that grow to trophy size. Rainbow trout, catfish, and largemouth bass attract the most attention.

Rainbow trout are plentiful in Irvine Lake, thanks to regular stockings by both OCParks and CDFW. The rainbows are most active during the winter months when they remain closer to the surface. However, as temperatures rise, they retreat deeper, making fishing more challenging during the summer months. This can be problematic for summer trout anglers, as boating is restricted so trolling is not an option.

While brown trout and steelhead can be found in the lake, their numbers are limited since they are no longer stocked.

Catfish also thrive in Irvine Lake, with steady stockings throughout the warmer months. Some catfish in this lake have achieved remarkable sizes, exemplified by a former state record blue catfish weighing 89.6 pounds. To safeguard the significant catfish population, the lake enforces a catch-and-release policy for catfish measuring over 24 inches. Approved catfish baits include worms, mackerel, dough baits, or artificial lures (no live bait).

The largemouth bass fishery at Irvine Lake is also impressive. Double-digit bass are not uncommon, and the stocker rainbow trout provide excellent nutrition for these growing giants. The bass population remains steady as all caught bass, regardless of size, must be released.

It's important to note that Irvine Lake is only open on weekends (including Fridays) and access is limited to the shoreline. There is also a five-acre pond for families with children to fish.