Hemet Lake - Mountain Center, CA

Lake Information

Fish Species: Rainbow Trout, Largemouth Bass, Common Carp, Bluegill, Redear Sunfish, Lightning Trout, Yellow Bullhead
Lake Hemet, situated in the scenic San Jacinto Mountains near Mountain Center, CA, offers a high-altitude angling experience surrounded by forested peaks and clear skies. This 470-acre reservoir is managed by the Lake Hemet Municipal Water District and is a favored destination for both day-use anglers and campers.

The lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout from fall through spring. These fish are easily caught using traditional baits like PowerBait and nightcrawlers, as well as small spoons and spinners. Cooler temperatures at elevation extend the trout season longer than many lowland Southern California lakes, giving fly and spin anglers alike ample time to target them.

During the summer months, the lake shifts toward warmwater fishing. Channel catfish are commonly targeted in the evenings using cut mackerel, chicken liver, and dough baits. Largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie inhabit the lake year-round, though they are not stocked. Anglers have success using crankbaits, plastic worms, and live bait near submerged brush and shallows.

Boating is allowed and encouraged, with rentals available on-site, including pontoons, aluminum boats, and kayaks. The lake also offers shoreline access and RV campsites. All anglers 16 and older must possess a valid California fishing license. With fresh mountain air and consistent fish production, Lake Hemet remains a reliable and scenic choice for anglers of all experience levels.



Latest Photos

6-2-2025
8 lbs. 8 oz.
Greg Helmer
6-2-2025
9 lbs. 8 oz.
Joe Revitte
3-16-2025
11-19-2024

Hemet Lake Whoppers

Species Weight Date Report
Largemouth Bass 11 lbs. 8 oz. 4-05-2018 View Report
Rainbow Trout 9 lbs. 8 oz. 3-16-2025 View Report
Lightning Trout 9 lbs. 2-01-2024 View Report
Rainbow Trout 8 lbs. 13 oz. 4-20-2023 View Report
Rainbow Trout 8 lbs. 8 oz. 2-21-2022 View Report
Lightning Trout 8 lbs. 8 oz. 2-02-2024 View Report
Rainbow Trout 8 lbs. 8 oz. 6-02-2025 View Report
Rainbow Trout 8 lbs. 4 oz. 11-30-2021 View Report
Rainbow Trout 7 lbs. 11 oz. 11-14-2021 View Report
Largemouth Bass 7 lbs. 7-06-2020 View Report

Latest Fish Plants

Plant DateSpeciesSourceTotal Pounds
6-09-2025Rainbow TroutCDFW 
5-26-2025Rainbow TroutCDFW 
5-12-2025Rainbow TroutCDFW 
4-22-2025Rainbow TroutLake Hemet2000
4-22-2025Lightning TroutHemet Lake2000


Latest Fish Reports

Date Report Author
6-2-2025 8.5 lb. Rainbow
TROPHY TROUT ALERT Greg Helmer just had an excellent... more »
Hemet Lake Staff
5-2-2025 TROUT SHOUT OUT ‼️
TROUT SHOUT OUT One of our favorite annual pass... more »
Hemet Lake Staff
4-25-2025 ‼️ WE ARE TROUT READY ‼️
WE ARE TROUT READY Lake Hemet privately stocked 4,000lbs... more »
Hemet Lake Staff
3-26-2025 Double Trout Stock
DOUBLE TROUT STOCK Lake Hemet privately stocked 4,000lbs of... more »
Hemet Lake Staff
3-16-2025 9.5 lb. Rainbow
    WHALE OF A TALE     Trout fishing has been great... more »
Hemet Lake Staff

Detailed Map