Anonymous
By the County of Santa Barbara
Winter storms delivered an extraordinary surge of water and Cachuma Lake is finally full after more than ten years of being under capacity. With an abundance of water comes first-rate fishing conditions.
In cooperation with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the County of Santa Barbara has welcomed 16,000 pounds of Rainbow Trout to the lake this stocking season, with the most recent 4,000 pounds arriving April 10. The fish range in size from half pound “catchables” to eight-pound trophies and come from Mt. Lassen Trout Farms, Inc., located in Paynes Creek, California.
This latest delivery arrives just in time for the 26th Annual Fish Derby, happening April 15 and 16. The Fish Derby is a fundraiser for the Neal Taylor Nature Center, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to the education, enjoyment and protection of the Cachuma Lake area. $5000+ in cash prizes and thousands more in merchandise will be awarded! Registration before April 13 is $40.00; Registration on-site April 14 to 16 is $45; and for children 4-15 it is $10. For more information, visit www.troutderby.org or call the Derby Hotline at (805) 693-8381.
Visitors can also enjoy other park amenities including guided lake cruises, Junior Rangers, disc golf, beautiful hiking trails, plus live music and delicious food at Hook’d Bar and Grill. The park is brimming with water and optimal recreation and relaxation opportunities!
Everything an angler needs is available for rent or purchase at the Cachuma Lake Marina and Boat Rentals, which 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.
Please note that due to the 30-day Quagga restrictions, boats must be inspected and tagged by Cachuma Lake staff at least 30 days prior to visiting. Kayaks, canoes, and simple boats are eligible for same-day launch. For more information, please visit Boating & Vessel Requirements | Santa Barbara County, CA – Official Website (countyofsb.org).
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, fishing! For camping reservations and more information, go to Parks | Santa Barbara County, CA – Official Website (countyofsb.org).
Pretty fish