Lake Elsinore - Lake Elsinore, CA

Lake Information

Fish Species: Striped Bass, Channel Catfish, Rainbow Trout, Largemouth Bass, Black Crappie, White Crappie, Wiper, White Bass
Lake Elsinore, the largest natural freshwater lake in Southern California, is located in Riverside County and offers a diverse warmwater fishery. While the lake has experienced periodic challenges with water quality and algae blooms, ongoing revitalization and aeration projects have improved fish habitat and public access. Today, the lake supports healthy populations of channel catfish, largemouth bass, crappie, and carp.

Channel catfish are the most reliable species for most anglers. Fishing for them peaks in the summer months, especially at night, using baits like chicken liver, cut mackerel, and stink bait fished on the bottom. Large catfish are regularly reported, and night fishing is particularly productive near boat docks and shoreline structures.

Largemouth bass provide additional sport fishing opportunities in spring and fall. Bass are best caught near submerged vegetation, boat docks, and rock points using soft plastics, spinnerbaits, and swimbaits. Crappie are found around submerged structures and artificial reefs, typically fished with small jigs or live minnows.

Shoreline fishing is popular and accessible, and a public boat launch accommodates both recreational and angling vessels. All boaters must comply with inspection and safety regulations. A California fishing license is required for all anglers aged 16 and older. With its size, diversity, and improving conditions, Lake Elsinore continues to reestablish itself as a worthy destination for Southern California anglers.



Latest Photos

5 lbs. 14 oz.
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lake Elsinore
Jon Caffery
6-12-2020
10 lbs. 5 oz.
3-18-2018
Just another day at the office!
Steve Duncan Bugman
11-22-2016
Photo Credit: Williams Bait & Tackle
4-13-2016

Lake Elsinore Whoppers

Species Weight Date Report
Channel Catfish 10 lbs. 5 oz. 3-18-2018 View Report
Channel Catfish 5 lbs. 14 oz. 6-12-2020 View Report

Latest Fish Plants

Plant DateSpeciesSourceTotal Pounds
4-26-2024Channel CatfishGolden State Bait2400


Latest Fish Reports

Date Report Author
5-21-2025 🎣 Just 4 Kids Fishing Derby! 🎣
Just 4 Kids Fishing Derby! Grab your fishing poles... more »
Lake Elsinore Staff
5-2-2024 1th Annual Dream Extreme Fishing Derby
Get ready to reel in the excitement! The... more »
Lake Elsinore Staff
3-15-2024 11th Annual Lake Elsinore Dream Extreme Fishing Derby
Get hooked on the excitement! Dive into the... more »
Lake Elsinore Staff
6-22-2021 8th Annual Dream Extreme Fishing Derby!
It's BACK! Get your rods, reels, bait and... more »
Lake Elsinore Staff
11-24-2020 1.5 Lb. Carp
Wyatt from Corona caught this 1.5 lb. Carp... more »
Lake Elsinore Staff

Detailed Map