Lake fishing, stream fishing, stocking schedules, and everything you need to land the big one
A valid California fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older.
Most commonly stocked. Year-round. Limit: 5 per day. CDFW stocks regularly from fall through spring.
Excellent bass fishing. Limit: 5 per day, 12" minimum size. Best in warmer months near structures and coves.
Best in summer, especially night fishing. Limit: 10 per day. No size minimum. Use bait near bottom.
Panfish abundant near docks and structures. Great for kids learning to fish. 25 per day aggregate limit.
Popular shore fishing area. Good for trout in cooler months and bass in warmer weather. Parking and easy lake access.
Walk across the dam and fish from the south side. Consistently productive for stocked trout. Great for beginners.
Marshy area at the east end of the lake. Excellent for bass and panfish near structure. Quieter than other spots.
Multiple coves along the north shore with rocky structure. Great for bass fishing from boat or shore.
Sheltered bay near the Village. Good for trout and panfish. Several marinas nearby for boat rentals.
Deeper water area on the south shore. Good for trolling for trout and bass. Less shore fishing access.
| Guide Service | Price Range | Duration | What's Included |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big Bear Fishing Charters | $290–$390 | Half day (4–5 hrs) | Boat, guide, tackle, bait, fish cleaning. All skill levels welcome. 1–4 people per trip. |
| Local Shore Guides | $150–$250 | 3–4 hours | Shore-based instruction, tackle, bait. Great for families and beginners learning technique. |
Big Bear Lake hosts several fishing tournaments throughout the season including bass tournaments, trout derbies, and youth fishing events. Check with the Big Bear Chamber of Commerce or local tackle shops for current tournament schedules. The annual Big Bear Lake Fishing Tournament typically runs in summer.