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Pyramid Lake Fishing Report 2024 [Tips, Spots, Pictures, and Everything You Need to Know]

How To Fish Pyramid Lake | Your Pyramid Lake Fishing Report

Pyramid Lake is a large lake that sits 56 miles away from Los Angeles (whichever is closer) and 327 miles away from San Francisco.

Overall it’s a moderate quiet lake that is best known for its bass fishing. Traditional largemouth and striped bass anglers flock to this lake. One the best parts of fishing this lake is there are no land restrictions where you are allowed to fish this lake. There are even reports of anglers catching striped bass that range over 40 pounds!

In this post you’re going to be given the blueprint to fish this lake.

So what are the best tips for fishing Pyramid Lake?

There are three important factors you must know if you want to know how to fish Pyramid Lake successfully. First, you need to know what kind of fish is in Pyramid Lake. Second, it’s important for you to know which part of the lake each species can be found. Lastly, knowing what are the best baits that work on Pyramid Lake is vital. However, tactics, baits, and locations will be different for each type of fish that you target. So let’s talk about the steps you need to take in order to give you the best chance of catching a fish on Pyramid Lake.

Key Takeaways

This lake gives locals and visitors the opportunity to test their luck in catching one of the many game species this lake has to offer, such as trout, bass, catfish, bluegill, and much, much more!

Here’s the most recent and updated Pyramid Lake Fishing Report – it gives you a quick and easy list of some really good fishing spots. If you’re looking for more detail on how to fish each spot scroll down into the article. 

  • Piru Creek
  • Carlos Canyon Cove
  • Nugget Point
  • Glory Hole Cove
  • Pyramid Dam
  • Posey Canyon Cove

Here are some additional fast and helpful tips just for you: 

  • The easiest way to fish this lake is by boat, but there are areas to fish from the bank, or by kayak or float tube.
  • There are public boat ramps to use.
  • Camping and RV parking is available.
  • You can buy tackle and groceries at the lake or at one of the tackle shops in Castaic, Santa Clarita and Sylmar.

About Pyramid Lake

Pyramid Lake is a deep body of water with the average depth being 150-225 feet and a maximum depth of 344 feet when the lake is completely full. Fishing Pyramid Lake can be incredible when you have over 21 miles of shoreline and over 1,360 acres to fish.

This reservoir was built along the high canyon walls around Piru Creek, and is the deepest lake in the California Water Project system.

In order to make room for US Route 99, builders had to carve out a pyramid-shaped rock, which gave the lake its name.

Pyramid Lake is known for its largemouth and striped bass fishing.

Important Lake Warnings

Algae blooms may be present which may affect fishing, swimming, and water contact in general. 

According to parks.ca.gov, “every one of California’s new laws requires boat operators to have a California Boating Card. The card is required for anyone under the age of 41 to operate a boat in California’s waters.”

If you are fishing and camping, fire bans may be in effect due to the ongoing drought conditions.

What Kind Of Fish Are In Pyramid Lake

  • Rainbow Trout
  • Largemouth Bass
  • Smallmouth Bass
  • Spotted Bass
  • Striped Bass
  • White and Black Crappie
  • Bluegill and Sunfish
  • Perch
  • Catfish

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Pyramid Lake Fishing Tips & General Strategies

Fishing at Pyramid Lake

  • Home to some of the largest largemouth bass that California has to offer!
  • Striped bass and smallmouth bass also make a splash in these waters
  • Known for its deep water, providing perfect hideouts for big bass

Water Clarity

  • Expect visibility up to 15 feet, so grab your polarized shades and spot those fish
  • Bass love the clear water, as it provides them with a great line of sight for ambushing prey
  • Watch out for the bass’ sneaky moves, because with water this clear, they can see you too

Structures & Fishing Cover

  • Rocky Reefs/Outcroppings
  • Points and Humps
  • Vegetation 
  • Docks and Piers

Springtime Fishing update

I got the latest scoop on Pyramid Lake in California, so listen up if you’re itchin’ to get out there and wet a line. Here’s the lowdown from our fellow anglers:

Water Temperature: 

  • It’s warmin’ up nicely, with temps hoverin’ between 58 and 65°F. Just right for a fishin’ frenzy!

Water Clarity:

  • The lake is crystal clear, so those fish won’t be able to hide from your keen eyes. Grab your polarized shades, partner!

Wind and Weather: 

  • You’ll want to pack a windbreaker and a hat, ’cause the breeze can be a bit gusty at times, especially in the afternoons. Expect some occasional rain, but nothin’ too severe.

Now let’s dive deeper into the fish and how to catch ’em:

  • Largemouth Bass

      • Jig-n-pig or Texas-rigged soft plastics are your go-to baits around submerged structure and rock piles. Keep an eye out for weed lines and drop-offs, too.
      • Topwater action can be phenomenal early in the mornin’ and late afternoon. Poppers, buzzbaits, and walk-the-dog baits can do the trick.
      • Anglers are hookin’ big bass near the dam and along the western shoreline, especially around isolated cover like laydowns or docks.

  • Smallmouth Bass

      • Crankbaits and spinnerbaits should be your go-to lures, especially when the wind picks up. Work ’em around rocky points, ledges, and drop-offs.
      • Soft plastic tubes and finesse jigs are also great for tempting those smallies out of their rocky hideouts. Just remember to keep it slow and steady.
      • Reports say the smallies are bitin’ near the main lake points and the eastern shoreline. Don’t forget to probe the deeper water near submerged boulders and rocky shoals.

  • Rainbow Trout

      • Tie on a Kastmaster, flashy spoon, or small jerkbait and toss it in the deeper water. Vary your retrieval speed to see what those rainbows are likin’.
      • Floatin’ some PowerBait or nightcrawlers off the bottom can also produce big results, especially when rigged with a sliding sinker setup.
      • Fly anglers should try woolly buggers, nymphs, or streamers to get those trout’s attention.
      • Trout are cruisin’ near the dam and the inlet area. Look for birds divin’ and baitfish boilin’ on the surface to find the hotspots.

  • Striped Bass

      • Live shad or swimbaits are the ticket for these hard-fightin’ fish. Toss ’em around schools of baitfish, and hold on tight!
      • Trollin’ deep-diving crankbaits or umbrella rigs is also effective for coverin’ water and locatin’ those schools of hungry stripers.
      • Early mornin’ and late afternoon topwater action can be explosive when the stripers are actively chasin’ baitfish. Keep a spook or pencil popper at the ready.
      • Stripers are bein’ caught in the middle of the lake, often near schools of baitfish. Keep an eye on your fish finder to locate those submerged bait balls.

  • Catfish

    • Chicken liver, nightcrawlers, or stink baits are workin’ like a charm for these bottom dwellers. Try to fish on or near the bottom, where catfish love to prowl.
  • Don’t forget to rig up a slip-sinker setup or a three-way rig for maximum success. It’ll keep your bait in the catfish’s strike zone.
  • Night fishin’ can be super productive for cats, so bring your headlamp and some snacks for a late-night adventure.
  • The catfish have been found lurkin’ near the coves, inlets, and the deeper holes along the eastern shoreline. Patience is key when targeting these whiskered critters.

  • Crappie

    • Break out those tiny jigs, grubs, or small minnows to entice these tasty panfish. Vertical jiggin’ around brush piles and submerged timber is the name of the game.
    • A slip-bobber rig with a small jig or minnow suspended just above the brush is a great technique for coaxin’ those crappie to bite.
    • Look for schools of crappie to be hangin’ around marina docks and submerged vegetation, especially in the southern part of the lake.
    • Early mornin’ and late afternoon are prime time for crappie action, so plan your fishin’ trip accordingly.

So, there you have it, fellas! That’s the spring fishin’ report for Pyramid Lake in California. Now grab your gear, get out there, and rip some lips! And don’t forget to share your catch with us. Tight lines, amigos!

Pyramid Lake – Summer Fishing update

Alright fellas, let me fill you in on the scoop from the local anglers at Pyramid Lake this summer. It’s been a reel adventure out there! Here’s what you need to know:

Water Temperature: 

  • It’s been consistently around 72°F – 78°F. These temps got the fish feeling lively, so make sure you’re ready to match their energy.

Water Clarity: 

  • Visibility has been ranging from 4 to 8 feet. Not crystal clear, but not muddy either. Just right for working those stealthy lures.

Wind & Weather: 

  • You better pack some sunscreen, ’cause it’s been sunny with highs in the upper 80s. The wind can pick up in the afternoons, making it a bit choppy at times. Plan for a breezy ride back to the dock.

Now, let’s talk about the catch of the day:

Largemouth Bass:

  • They’ve been munching on topwater lures, especially during early mornings and late afternoons. Think poppers and frogs for that explosive surface bite.
  • Anglers have been flippin’ and pitchin’ jigs and soft plastics into submerged vegetation, rock piles, and drop-offs. This is where the big boys are hiding.
  • Hot spots: Northeast corner near the dam (Posey Canyon Cove) and the south shore along the rocky points.

Smallmouth Bass:

  • These feisty fish have been loving crankbaits and spinnerbaits in shad or crawdad colors. Keep it movin’ for the best action.
  • Fish near boulders and steep banks. They’re using these as ambush points to snag unsuspecting prey.
  • Hot spots: North shore by the coves (Carlos Canyon Cove) and the rocky shoreline near the marina.

Striped Bass:

  • They’ve been going bonkers for live bait. If you can get your hands on some fresh shad or anchovies, you’re golden.
  • Look for boils on the surface or birds diving to find the feeding frenzies.
  • Hot spots: Just off the main lake points (Nugget Point), around the islands in the middle of the lake, and around the dam.

Catfish:

  • You’ll want to use cut bait, stink bait, or nightcrawlers to attract these whiskerfish.
  • Fish on the bottom during twilight and night hours for your best shot at landing a monster.
  • Hot spots: The coves and shallow flats (Glory Hole Cove), near the marina and campgrounds.

So there you have it, the lowdown on Pyramid Lake this summer. Remember to pack plenty of cold drinks and sunscreen, and don’t forget your lucky hat. Now get out there and rip some lips! Tight lines, fellas!

But Where Are The Best Places To Fish At Pyramid Lake?

And in no particular order here is that list of the best fishing spots at Pyramid Lake .

DISCLAIMER:  The material provided is for general information purposes only. It’s important to understand that any information provided in this article can change at any time. Any maps or graphics featured are not to be used as navigational aids. Fishing Blueprint will not be responsible for any personal injury or property damage from any misuse of the maps or graphics provided.   It’s completely impossible to give you every single spot where you can potentially catch a fish.  But, what this list does do is to give you a helping hand and narrow down to the most productive fishing spots.

Piru Creek

Look carefully at this fishing spot under lower water conditions…

Located: Piru Creek Arm

Structural features: Steep rocky banks, current, drop offs, and ledges

Best species to target: Bass, trout

Most effective way to fish this spot: Boat

Carlos Canyon Cove

Look carefully at this fishing spot under lower water conditions..

Located: Piru Creek Arm

Structural features: Steep rocky banks, current, drop offs, and ledges

Best species to target: Bass, trout

Most effective way to fish this spot: Boat

Nugget Point

Look carefully at this fishing spot under lower water conditions..

Located: Mid lake

Structural features: Main lake point, current, drop offs, humps, and ledges

Best species to target: Bass, trout

Most effective way to fish this spot: Boat

Glory Hole Cove

Look carefully at this fishing spot under lower water conditions..

Located: Priest Arm

Structural features: Small cove, vegetation, rock piles, ledges, creek channel swing, and points

Best species to target: Bass, crappie, catfish

Most effective way to fish this spot: Boat, kayak, float tube

Pyramid Dam

Look carefully at this fishing spot under lower water conditions..

Located: south lake

Structural features: Dam, deep water, ledges, rip rap banks

Best species to target: Bass, trout

Most effective way to fish this spot: Boat

Posey Canyon Cove

Look carefully at this fishing spot under lower water conditions..

Located: south lake

Structural features: Steep cove, ledges, rock piles, channel swing

Best species to target: Bass, crappie, catfish

Most effective way to fish this spot: Boat

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How To Catch Fish In Lake Pyramid?

Rainbow Trout

California Department of Fish and Wildlife grows and stocks local lakes and reservoirs like this lake with Rainbow Trout.

Due to this lake being relatively unpressured, deep, and colder, and most other desert reservoirs, the stocked trout do very well. 

Furthermore, trout are produced in local fisheries, they are healthy and have no limit on the amount of trout that can be consumed.

Typically trout are stocked frequently, however, it can vary. 

Sometimes you’ll read this lake has steelhead trout, but no rainbow trout, or visa versa… 

This can be confusing for a lot of people. Are rainbow trout and steelhead trout the same?

Short answer, they are nearly the same species.

But, if you have ever wondered, what is the real difference between a rainbow trout and a steelhead trout? We wrote a definitive report called, “What’s the Difference Between A Rainbow Trout Vs Steelhead”.  Click here to read it, so you can end the confusion once and for all. 

General Trout Details

Spawn: March-May

Food: insects and crustaceans. 

California State Record: 27 lbs 0 oz. Caught 10/02/2005 in Lake Natoma.

Table Quality: Depending on the fishes diet, the meat can be white to orange-red in color. The meat is firm, flaky, and is considered excellent eating.

Angling techniques:

  • Trolling with or without downriggers
  • Trolling flies
  • Fish attractor such as a  flasher or a dodger – great when trolling.
  • Trolling spoons such as a Krocodile spoon, Super Duper, Crippled Herring, Cast Champ, or  Hus-Lure – simple, easy to use, can be trolled or cast-retrieved at any speed.
  • Inline spinners such as the Blue Fox Classic Vibrax Spinner, Bang-Tail and Shyster – get a ton of bites.
  • Minnow style baits such as the Luhr-Jensen Quick Fish and the Rapala BX minnow – known to hook up giant fish.
  • Real or artificial corn – great because it will never spoil or mold over.
  • Natural salmon eggs – it’s hard to beat natural salmon eggs at bait. When trout are eating salmon eggs, they’ll eat up a couple of jars in less than an hour!
  • Artificial salmon eggs – great because they float off the bottom – ideal in rocky or grassy conditions.
  • Real worms – such as meal worms or nightcrawlers.
  • Artificial worms – great for trolling and will never die.
  • Dry flies (floating flies) – The insects that land, float, or live on top of the water, which are represented by dry flies. Investing in a kit gives you a wide assortment of flies and a good selection of types and sizes allow you to quickly adjust to any situation.
  • Wet flies (sinking flies) – Wet flies imitate insects that develop and inhabit below the water level before emerging and rising to the surface. Investing in a kit gives you a wide assortment of flies and a good selection of types and sizes allow you to quickly adjust to any situation.  
  • Woolly bugger flies – One of the most popular fly patterns ever is the Woolly Bugger. These mimic small fish, leeches, larvae, and worms. Investing in a kit gives you a wide assortment of flies and a good selection of types and sizes allow you to quickly adjust to any situation.  

    • Steamer flies – They can also mimic larger animals found in streams and rivers, including crawfish, larger leeches, and smaller fish. Investing in a kit gives you a wide assortment of flies and a good selection of types and sizes allow you to quickly adjust to any situation. 

      • **The number one key to successful trout fishing, is to use light line (2 to 6 pound) and small hooks (10-14 sizes), and small sinkers.

        On a Side Note: Tips For Trolling for Trout...

        If you have access to a boat or kayak, try to put as many lures in the water as possible (obviously, check local laws, regulations, and restrictions, as well as knowing if certain locations have limits) and as far away from the boat as feasible.

        Some utilize planer boards and even down riggers to keep the lines away from the boat.

        Here’s where a smart professional fishing-guide can and will hook you up with some of the biggest, toughest-fighting fish you’ll ever encounter.

        Having high-quality electronics aids in establishing the depth at which fish are continuously feeding, as well as which food source is being consumed the most frequently.

        If you examine the shoreline’s structure along with using your fish finder, study the underwater topography of the lake.

        If you notice a cliff, it’s likely that the water at its base is deep. 

        If you observe a chain of islands or exposed main lake humps, there’s a good chance there’s a shallow shoal or channel between them.

        Trout prefer drop-offs, channels, and ledges, so you’ll want to troll parallel to these locations rather than over them. 

        If you stumble upon a place and catch a trout, there’s a good chance there are more.


        Luckily there is an in-depth report that you can access, called How To Troll for Trout [A Beginner’s Guide], you’ll learn all the special tips and strategies many of the fishing guides will keep to themselves. Click here to learn more, so you can extend your fishing season all year long.

        Largemouth Bass

        You may be wondering… How do you fish for bass in Pyramid Lake?

        Largemouth bass is a carnivorous member of the sunfish family.

        California grows some MONSTER bass.  At any time you could hook into a bass that could be your all-time personal best.  

        In general, if the water clarity is clear to a slightly stained lake. Meaning finesse techniques (like drop shot fishing), small lures (like football jigs), and thin diameter line gets you the most bites when the wind is calm. 

        On the other hand, if the water is moderately stained or murky, then you need to choose darker lures. This also means you can get away with using thicker diameter line.

        Since the 1980’s this lake has been stocked with Florida-strain largemouth bass. Bass fishing in this lake is not as popular as trout or salmon fishing. Luckily, you can still catch a giant bass by lobbying large swimbaits for glide baits in trout patterns. 

        Once your arm gets tired you can still catch a ton of fish by throwing a drop shot rig, small crankbait, or dragging a Texas rigged Senko around a fish attracting structure.

        If that doesn’t catchem, you can switch to either a drop shot rig or a Neko rig and target points, boulders, or channel swings. 

        That’s why we wrote this Pyramid Lake Fishing Report for you… so you can get the inside scoop about the top spots and best lures to use to help you out…

        If you’re still not sure how to catch a bass, don’t worry. A complete section on Bass Fishing 101 was written to help you out. In that section, you’ll learn about the top ways to get you catching bass fast.

        Read more: Beginner’s Guide To Bass Fishing Basics – Tips, Secrets & Things To Avoid

        General Largemouth Bass Details

        Spawn: Spring, March-May

        Food: Shad, minnows, small trout, small salmon, bluegill, perch, crayfish

        California State Record: 21lbs 12 oz. Caught in 1991 in Castaic Lake at the main boat ramp.

        Table Quality: Decent. Firm white meat. 

        Angling techniques:

        Smallmouth Bass

        Smallmouth bass are a sibling species closely related to largemouth bass. They have a pretty brown/golden color and carry the nickname of “bronzeback”. There are a few physical features that make it different from the largemouth bass. Aside from being bronze in color, they will have gray-brown vertical bands and the most defining feature is the jaw does not extend past its eye. 

        Overall, smallmouth bass are most likely going about half the size of largemouth bass. However, pound for pound, a smallmouth can be incredibly aggressive and will put up an amazing fight. 

        General Smallmouth Bass Details

        Spawn: March-May

        Food: fish, crustaceans. 

        California State Record: 9 lbs 13 oz. Caught 7/3/2007 in Pardee Reservoir.

        Table Quality: Similar to a largemouth bass it’s firm, white, flaky, mild-tasting

        Angling techniques:

        Spotted Bass

        Spotted bass is a cousin to a largemouth bass and shares some similarities and differences. 

        Both are extremely hard fighters and very fun to catch. 

        A spotted bass’ jaw does not reach over its eye line. The jaw of a largemouth bass is longer and extends over the eye line.

        On a spotted bass, the dorsal fin is clearly attached and has a mild slope. The dorsal fin of a largemouth bass is separate, or nearly so. This is most likely the most important difference between the two species.

        A connected irregular dark lateral line runs along the side of a Spotted Bass. There is no discernible lateral line in largemouth bass.

        Drop shot, tubes, Ned rig, Neko rig, and Mojo rig (which is a modified split shot rig that won’t damage your line) around fallen trees or rock piles. Senko’s along with peanut butter and jelly colored jigs are a great color all year round. 

        General Spotted Bass Details

        Spawn: March-May

        Food: fish, crustaceans. 

        California State Record: 11 lbs 4 oz. Caught 2/12/2017 in New Bullards Bar Reservoir.

        Table Quality: Similar to a largemouth bass it’s firm, white, flaky, mild-tasting

        Angling techniques:

        Striped Bass

        Commonly known as “stripers”, striped bass travel into freshwater streams to reproduce, yet they are saltwater natives.

        Most landlocked striped bass will grow to an average size of 12-20 inches and weigh 1-3 pounds. However, some striped bass can grow to become enormous and can weigh as much as 70+ pounds! 

        Because their eggs need to move in order to hatch, stripers prefer freshwater rivers and streams as spawning places.

        Once a lake or river is dammed off, the area is often inundated by landlocked stripers.

        One great example of this is the striped bass that are found in the Colorado river lakes near the California-Arizona border. The river was a key spawning habitat before dams were created, and many giant stripers have come from these waters.

        When targeting stripers, focus the majority of your fishing on the deepest water the lake has to offer. Stripers are typically nearby if you can find schools of shad.

        It’s strongly recommended you invest in a good fish finder/ sonar unit. Bait fish will appear as a clump of tiny dots suspended in the water column.  Additionally, striped bass will appear as larger arcs below or near the school of shad.  If you see striped bass near the school of shad you need to fish it.

        Stripers may be caught on a variety of baits such as minnow baits, jointed crankbaits, umbrella rigs, or swimming spoons at proper depths when the baitfish are suspended over the deep water.

        If you notice any surface feeding action, using topwater baits such as walking baits, or surface prop baits such as whopper ploppers make fishing an absolute blast. 

        Jigging spoons perform insanely well when the stripers are deep.

        Striped bass can often be found in medium to deep water coves and secondary lake arms. One of the first places to find striped bass is to look at your fishing map and find distinct changes in depth such as drop offs or river channel swings.

        Striped bass can always be caught using live bait, cut bait (such as frozen anchovy, shad, shrimp, or squid – yep even in lakes), as well as chicken livers.

        Lastly, trolling is another great approach to catch stripers. Use larger sizes of flashing lures. Stripers may be caught on a variety of baits such as minnow baits, jointed crankbaits, umbrella rigs, or swimming spoons

        General Striped Bass Details

        Spawn: April – mid-June in flowing water, current or rivers

        Food: Shad, dead or alive. 

        California State Record: 67 lb 8 oz. 45.25 in. O’Neill Forebay. Hank Ferguson, Soquel 5/7/1992

        Table Quality: The meat is excellent. It’s firm, flaky and white. There is a red lateral line that must be removed otherwise it gives off a strong “fishy” taste. Otherwise, these make excellent fish fry meals.

        Angling techniques:

        • Frozen shad or anchovies as “cut bait”
        • Small soft plastic swimbait
        • Spoons
        • Streamer flies

        White and Black Crappie

        If you like crappie fishing, this lake is filled with them. 

        The best time to fish for crappie in this lake and other lakes similar to it is in summertime while you’re night using a submerged green light. If you don’t know what a green fishing light is, or if you’re unfamiliar, then click this link to learn more.

        Green light fishing at night in this lake is amazing. If you haven’t done it you are missing out. The nights are cool and the night sky is filled with stars…

        Anyway, I digress…

        White crappie tend to linger over submerged brush and timber and are found in schools. The white crappie are much more tolerant in warmer water than their black crappie cousins. 

        White crappie have a more “silvery” appearance and lack the dark vertical bars when compared to the black crappie.  

        Black crappie can be described as having irregular black dots and blotches on the back and have more of a “silvery-olive” background.

        Average weight of a white or black crappie in this lake is probably going to be just under a pound. 

        General Crappie Details

        Spawn: April – mid-June

        Food: Larvae, small fish, and crustaceans. Threadfin shad and minnows make up their main diet. 

        California State Record: 

        • White crappie: 4 lbs 8 oz. Caught 4/26/1971 in Clear Lake using minnows.
        • Black crappie: 4 lbs 8 oz. Caught 2/17/2021 in Clear Lake using minnows.

        Table Quality: The meat is excellent. It’s firm, flaky and white. 

        Angling techniques:

        • Live minnows under bobbers
        • Crappie jigs
        • Crappie tubes
        • Silver spoons
        • Spinners

        Catfish

        There are four species of catfish in California, the blue catfish, bullhead catfish, channel catfish, white catfish.   

        Catfish are predatory animals and scavengers. Some can get very big, while others remain small. They tend to spend most of their time on the bottom of the lake versus swimming higher in the water column suspended. 

        Catfish can have up to 8 whisker-like barbels by their mouths to help them detect food. 

        Blue catfish can get very big. They can weigh more than 100 pounds and grow to around 5 feet long. They have 8 whisker-like barbels by their mouths. They prefer larger cut bait and live bait 

        Conversely, bullhead catfish tend to be smaller and will weigh on average about 1-2-pounds, but can grow to around 4-5-pounds. 

        Channel catfish weight will range from 0.5-to-15-pounds in this lake, however the average weight will be between 1-4-pounds. 

        The smallest of all catfish in North America is the white catfish. These catfish are considered rare by anglers’ standards. They average 1-2 pounds and will grow to only about a foot.

        All species prefer warmer coves, but can also be found scavenging near the marinas, or around the dam.  

        All can be caught with live bait, cut bait or dough bait. Some of the best baits you can use are chicken livers, hotdogs, anchovies, mackerel or sardines, catfish stink-bait/dough baits, or even night crawlers. warm coves or near the dam. 

        General Catfish Details

        Spawn: March-June

        Food: Carp, bluegill

        California State Record: 

        Blue catfish –  72 lbs 14 oz. Caught 4/22/2003 in Colorado River (Riverside).

        Bullhead catfish – 4 lbs 8 oz. Caught 10/7/1993 in Trinity Lake.

        Channel catfish –  53 lbs 8 oz. Caught 9/22/2008 in San Joaquin River.

        White catfish –  22 lbs 0 oz. Caught 3/21/1994 in Land Park pond (Sacramento).

        Table Quality: Soft white meat. In the summer the meat will taste muddy.

        Angling techniques:

        • chicken liver
        • hotdogs
        • stink bait
        • small live bluegill, sunfish, or perch
        • Frozen cut bait; anchovies, mackerel or sardines.

        Bluegill or Sunfish

        Also known collectively as “panfish” or “bream”, these small fish are both predators and prey. They fulfill a mid-tier predator role in the ecosystem. 

        Panfish are highly aggressive and eat minnows, bass fry (newly hatched baby bass), and insects. 

        The bluegill has teal-blue coloring on the bottom portion of the chin and gill plate. It also has a solid black opercula flap just behind the gill plate.

        Fun fact: The oldest reported age for a bluegill is 10 years.

        With the exception of appearance and size, the redear sunfish is quite similar to the bluegill. The dorsal fin of the redear sunfish features tiny vertical bands that go downward. It has a black dorsal color and a yellow-green ventral tint. The male’s operculum has a cherry-red edge, while the female’s has an orange coloring.

        These panfish are found on the shoreline and prefer nearby structures. They are incredibly aggressive and will quickly attack anything that looks like it could be eaten. Due to their aggressive behavior, they are one of the easiest fish to catch and are a great way to introduce someone to fishing.

        General Bluegill/ Sunfish Details

        Spawn: April and May

        Food: Small fish and insects

        California State Record: 

        Bluegill – 3 lbs 14 oz. Caught 6/22/2008 in Rancho Murieta Reservoir.

        Sunfish (red ear) – 5 lbs 3 oz. 6/27/1994 in Folsom South Canal (Sacramento) 

        Table Quality: Firm, white meat 

        Angling techniques: 

        • Worms
        • Dough balls
        • Slim Jim sausages pieces on a small hook (not lying… it really works)
        • Small spinners
        • Trout flies

        Yellow Perch

        Sometimes called the “raccoon perch”, or even “ringed perch”, yellow perch can be best described as having six to nine vertical black bars draped over its golden colored sides.

        Particularly on spawning males, the bottom fins flash with a bright orange brilliance, kinda like hot metal being pulled out of a kiln.

        They are some of the most beautiful of all freshwater fish.

        Perch are found on the shoreline and prefer nearby structures, and are incredibly aggressive and will quickly attack anything that looks like it could be eaten. Due to their aggressive behavior, they are easy to catch and taste amazing.  

        General Perch Details

        Spawn: February thru July

        Food: Small fish and insects

        California State Record: 3 lbs 10 oz. Caught 5/22/1979 in Crowley Lake.

        Table Quality: Firm, white meat 

        Angling techniques: 

        • Worms
        • Dough balls
        • Slim jim sausages pieces on a small hook (not lying… it really works)
        • Small spinners
        • Trout flies

        Boat Ramp at Pyramid Lake

        Pyramid Lake Emigrant Landing & Boat Ramp

        43101 Pyramid Lake Rd, Lebec, CA 93243

        fs.usda.gov

        (661) 295-7155

        Nearby boat ramp: Yes, 4 lanes

        Fish cleaning station: Yes

        Restrooms: Yes

        Showers: No

        Gas: No

        Groceries/snacks available: no

        Fishing pier

        Picnic tables

        Flush toilets

        Drinking water

        Soda machine

        Camping nearby: No

        Marinas at Pyramid Lake

        Pyramid Lake Emigrant Landing & Boat Ramp

        43101 Pyramid Lake Rd, Lebec, CA 93243

        fs.usda.gov

        (661) 295-7155

        Nearby boat ramp: Yes, 4 lanes

        Fish cleaning station: Yes

        Restrooms: Yes

        Showers: No

        Gas: No

        Groceries/snacks available: no

        Fishing pier

        Picnic tables

        Flush toilets

        Drinking water

        Soda machine

        Camping nearby: No

        Tackle Shops Near Pyramid Lake

        Pyramid Lake Store

        43100 Pyramid Lake Rd, Castaic, CA 91384

        (661) 294-9403

        Tackle Express

        22941 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita, CA 91350

        (661)2518700

        Gallions Castaic Corner

        31515 Ridge Rte Rd, Castaic, CA 91384

        (661) 257-3523

        Tackle Shack USA

        12061 Foothill Blvd Unit A, Sylmar, CA 91342

        (747) 274-1081

        ———HUGE FISHING BLUEPRINT NATIONAL PROMOTION!———

        Limited Time Promotion – Act Now!

        Click On the Picture To Learn More!

        Camping Near Pyramid Lake

        Los Alamos Group Campground

        43100 Pyramid Lake Rd, Gorman, CA 93243

        recreation.gov 

        (877) 444-6777

        • Sites – 90 total. 
          • RV sites available with water hookups only
          • Standard tent sites available
          • (3) group sites available; each group site sleeps 40 guests and 10 vehicles
        • Dump station available: Yes
        • Flushable toilets available: Yes
        • Showers available: No
        • Drinking water source: Yes
        • Fish cleaning station available: Yes
        • Low season: October – March
        • High season: April – September 
        • Pets welcome: Yes
        • Volleyball courts
        • Campground map – click here
        • Reservations – click here

        Other Activities You Can Do At Pyramid Lake

        Fishing is not the only thing that brings people to the beautiful body of water. Here’s a list of other things you can do!

        • Biking
        • Bird watching
        • Boating
        • Skiing
        • Kayaking
        • Canoeing
        • Sailing
        • Swimming
        • Camping
        • Horseshoes
        • Picnicking
        • Hiking
        • Gentle walking trails
        • Nature photography trails
        • Wildlife viewing
        • Mountain biking
        • Stargazing
        • and most importantly… relaxing.

        In Summary...

        As you now can see Pyramid Lake fishing can be tough at times, but it’s not impossible and with the help of the Pyramid Lake Fishing Report… It definitely helps you get started on the right foot quickly and easily, so you can avoid wasting hours wondering where and how to get started.

        Did You Get All This?

        As fellow fisherman and content creator I thrive on helping others… I feel like I can do the most good by helping others… And frankly… I would feel like I did something wrong if you didn’t walk away feeling a little better about this lake.

        I truly want to over deliver for you…

        So Let Me Ask You Another Question… 

        After reading this helpful report:

        • Can you see how this could change the way you would fish this lake?… To make it easier, faster… and… with less headache, less frustration?
        • If nothing else, do you now have a better sense of where you can get started, even if you have have been here?
        • Do you feel that you have a good grasp of what species to expect in this lake?
        • Do you have a good understanding what baits are needed to catch each of the different species of fish?
        • Earlier we came up with some helpful spots to catch more fish, can you see yourself considering any one of those spots? Which ones are you the most excited about implementing when you get to the lake?
        • Is it fair to say that using these spots would give you a significant advantage over someone else who’s fishing this lake? 

        I Need To Ask A Favor From You And It’s Not Going To Cost You A Single Dime… 

        If you have gotten anything out of this free report; whether its knowing where to get started, what kinds of fish are in this lake, what baits to use, where to launch your boat, where to buy a frosty beverage, where to camp, and other things to do when you’re at this lake…

        Then I need you to do something that is going to help you your fellow angler…

        And that is share this report.  Please share it to as many people as you can.  It’s free to you and it really helps me out as a creator. 

        Lastly… thank you for spending your time reading through this report and I hope you have a luck on the water.  

        THIS IS WHERE YOU CAN HELP ME THE MOST:  There’s a lot of information about this subject you have found helpful, and I’m sure you’ll be able to put some of the knowledge bombs to use.  But sharing this report helps drive traffic which in turn helps me at absolutely no cost to you.  I love creating reports like this for you, and you like reading these types of reports please share this with your friends, family, and fellow anglers.   

        Click on your favorite social media buttons to share this page now!

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        Other California Related Fishing Articles

        Accessories You’ll Need

        Fishing Rod

        Rod –The popularity of fishing is growing and people are becoming much more conscious of different rods that can help them.

        Fishermen want the best technique-specific rod for the money.

        Luckily, the report I wrote provides you with detailed information in order for you to make buy the rod for the money, and more importantly which rods to avoid at all costs.

        >> What Rods To Use For Bass Fishing? 10 Awesome General Purpose Rods Reviewed

        Fishing Reel

        Reel – Having the correct reel to match with your rod is just as important.  A good reel should be light and have a buttery smooth drag. There are several great reels on the market, but I recommend the a quality Shimano  baitcasting reel. It’s a great reel packed with great features. So much so that it could easily be priced in the mid $200 range.

        >>How To Choose A Great Bass Fishing Reel For The Money [and which to avoid at all costs]

        Fishing Line

        Fishing Line – Having a good line is just as important as having a good rod. I recommend fishing with a good fluorocarbon line. Furthermore, it’s super sensitive because it has little to no stretch, and underwater it’s invisible to the bass!  If pride or money is on the line I would use Sunline Sniper FC.

        >>21 Tips To Choose The Best Fishing Line

        Fishing Lures & Baits

        Fishing Lures – It’s pretty hard and darn near impossible trying to catch a fish without using some sort of lure or bait.  More importantly these baits you should never forget at home or it could lead to a horrible day on the water

        >>5 Bass Fishing Lures You Never Want to Leave At Home

        Fish Finder

        Finding lunker bass has never been easier when using a fish finding sonar unit.  Packed with additional features to make your day on the water even easier.  Maps that can plan your day or help you find your way back even in the darkest of nights. Bright bold numbers and letters to make reading the maps easy even in the brightest of days, and colors that pop and make it quick and easy to identify fish. 

        If you have a boat, kayak, canoe, or float tube, you need a fish finder. 

        Here’s our choice for the best fish finder between $299-$800:

        Humminbird HELIX 7 CHIRP MEGA SI

        It has all the features for any serious fisherman whether you’re an avid weekend warrior, or a tournament angler. This has all the bells and whistles you’re looking for. 

        >> Click HERE to Read The Reviews About Humminbird HELIX 7 CHIRP MEGA SI now

        Here’s our choice for the best economic fish finder:

        Garmin Stryker

        While others look for bites, your fishfinder and GPS plotter help you reach your daily limit. You can mark preferred docks, ramps, and hotspots to easily return to them later and even share waypoints.

        Click HERE to Read The Reviews About Garmin Stryker now!

        Life Vest

        According to Statista, “In the United States, 658 people died as a result of boating accidents and 2,641 people were injured in 2021.”

        And it gets even worse… The National Safe Boating Council reported, “Where cause of death was known, 81% of fatal boating accident victims drowned.”

        And if that’s not enough the incidence of deaths has climbed dramatically in recent years.

        So if you’re on the water you NEED to wear your life vest. Protect you, your friends, and your families lives by wearing a life vest every time you’re on the water.

        I recommend the ONYX PFD. It’s comfortable for all day use and there is lots of room for the air to move around so you won’t get sweaty.

        >>Click HERE to read all the reviews actual customers!

        Sunglasses

        Sunglasses – Do you find yourself fishing in variable light and water conditions? Fishing in open water? Fishing in the bright hot sun? Then, only to leave the lake with eye strain and a splitting headache?

        If so, I strongly recommend investing in a pair of Costa Sun Glasses. Thousands of anglers, charter guides, and tournament professionals put their trust into Costa, and so should you. Here’s why…

        Costa’s co-injected bio-based nylon frame material is robust and durable, as well as extremely comfortable to wear for all-day use. TR-90 nylon is an excellent material for sports and performance frames since it is heat and cold-resistant.
        Costa builds their glasses with class-leading technology. Their 580G glass lens sets them apart from the competition. These lenses are ideal for long days on the lake or sea since you won’t have to worry about scratches on the lens when you wipe the saltwater off. Needless to say they’re Costa’s most durable lenses.

        Anyone who spends time outside, especially on the lake, needs polarized lenses. However, not all polarized sunglasses are the same. Costa is 99.9% polarized, giving it the most effective possible in blocking reflecting glare, and minimizing eye strain and headaches.

        >>Click HERE to Read The Reviews On These Costa Sunglasses Right Now!

        Drift Sock

        Simply speaking, a drift sock (also known as a drift anchor) is like a parachute for the water. It gives you the ability to silently troll without spooking the fish!

        Anyone who fishes out of a boat, canoe, kayak, stand up paddle board, or any other type of floating vessel  should have a drift sock ready to use.

        In addition to helping you catch more fish, recreational boaters also like to have 1-2 drift socks handy, just in case their motor goes out on them the drift sock will help slow their drift. This could be instrumental to allow rescuers to find that boat quickly and easily.

        I strongly recommend the Drift Master Drift Sock by Mythik Outdoors.

        The construction is solid. Holding this in your hands gives you the peace of mind this feels durable and dependable.

        I love that it’s made from the gorilla-strong “RipStop” high density material, and I like that it’s even paired with the high-density nylon strapping.

        It’s 30% stronger than other competitors who use a cheaper version of the RipStop material, so you never have to worry about his ripping.

        Looking closely I can see they even triple stitched the high-tension points which is a good feature.

        But best part… the Drift Master comes in a complete kit!

        So get yours today and don’t leave yourself adrift.

        The last thing to note is the Mythik Outdoors Drift Master drift sock kits sell out fast, so make sure you get yours before they’re gone!

        >>Click HERE to Read The Reviews On This Drift Sock Today!

        Landing Net

        Landing Net – As you are reeling in that monster fish, you don’t want to injure yourself or knock the fish off the hook by trying to grab it.

        The PLUSINNO floating landing net is designed with foam padding on the hoop and provides buoyancy for fishermen. Now, If the net is dropped or blown overboard, the floating design makes it simple to retrieve – so you won’t have to be concerned about losing it! The rubberized net cannot be snagged. It keeps the fish safe for catch-and-release, and the non-absorbent covering avoids waterlogging and odor absorption in the net.  It’s collapsing design allows for easy storage.

        That’s why I recommend a dependable telescopic landing net.

        >>Click HERE to Read The Reviews On This Floating Landing Net Today!

        Fishing Weight Scale & Culler

        Fishing Weight Scale – Whether you’re going to keep your catch or just take a photo of it and brag to your friends it’s important to have an accurate scale. The Rapala Tournament Model Touch Screen Scale makes weighing and logging your catch easier and more convenient. The large digital scale has a lot of functions and is easy to use. simply keep track of your current catch and its place in your overall weight. To see the weight, just suspend the catch from the heavy-duty composite clamp or the accompanying stainless steel hook.  Adding the important details to your catch couldn’t be easier – simply input your catch’s weight and tap on one of the eight storage places. The culling process makes it simple to identify fish that should be released for the greatest overall weight.

        I recommend a Rapala Tournament Scale that has a large LED display like this one fishing scale here.

        >>Click HERE to Read The Reviews on This Tournament-Grade Fishing Scale & Culling System now!

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