Staff Report
Halloween and a full, blue moon came upon Saturday, Oct. 31, and Cachuma Lake had a fresh supply of 4,000 pounds of rainbow trout delivered right in time for the holiday.
Three additional 4,000-pound releases are also slated for later this fall and spring of 2021, with fish ranging in size from half-pound “catchables” to 8-pound trophies. As in the past, the fish come from Mt. Lassen Trout Farms, Inc., in Paynes Creek, California.
By planting fish in the lake, County Parks hopes to encourage outdoor activity and a safe alternative to regular Halloween activities. Instead of trick or treating, catch a trout! The lake and shoreline offer fresh air and an abundance of space for proper social distancing while recreating. Skip the candy corn this year and enjoy the deliciousness of trout.
Everything an angler needs is available for rent or purchase at the Cachuma Lake Marina and Boat Rentals, which also offers pontoons, outboards and kayak rentals, as well as one-day and annual fishing licenses. Fishing from shore in the recreation area or from a boat is open year-round with a valid fishing license. The lake level is just under 70 percent, providing sufficient depths for trout fishing.
Visitors are advised to check recreation area hours, and road and weather conditions in advance. They are also reminded to follow the rules and guidelines related to COVID-19 posted throughout the park.
For up-to-date fishing tips and summaries, check out the Cachuma Lake Weekly Fishing Report at www.countyofsb.org/parks/cachumafishing.sbc. For more information, contact the marina at 805-688-4040.
For those who plan to bring their own boating vessels, note that due to the 30-day Quagga restrictions at the lake, boats must be inspected and tagged by Cachuma Lake staff at least 30 days prior to your visit.
Cachuma Lake Recreation Area is a full-service campground offering year-round cabin, yurt, RV and tent camping, recreational activities, nature programs for all ages and of course, rainbow trout fishing! For camping reservations and more information, go to www.sbparks.org.
