Big Bear Lake Fishing Report

Big Bear water temps are now in the mid-50s, which has sparked excellent fishing for trout, bass, and crappie. Speaking of crappie... a 1.77-pound lake record was landed a couple weeks back, and it hasn't been a one-off. Quite a few hand-sized fish are being pulled out on mini jigs and worms around docks and submerged wood in 10-15 feet of water.

Trout action has been consistent following two CDFW plants in April. Thomas Buoyant spoons and Kastmasters are working well for trollers. Powerbait and floated nightcrawlers are getting a few for shore anglers.

The smallmouth bite has been excellent as well with the warming water temps. Rooster tails, small swimbaits, and mini jigs are landing bass that seem to be pushing shallow to spawn.

No confirmed trout stockings at Big Bear since November, outside of any quiet private drops that never made it public. Even so, the lake is producing a legit winter bite on holdovers. The dam area has been the most consistent, with orange and yellow mini jigs getting hammered by thick, hook-jaw rainbows running roughly 2 to 4 pounds. Bank anglers are also finding success soaking inflated nightcrawlers or mice tails, especially with garlic scent mixed in. Water clarity is high and temps are hovering in the low 40s, so lighter line is making a noticeable difference.