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Lake Oroville

Oroville · California

Lake Freshwater
If you're looking for an awesome fishing spot in California, Lake Oroville near Oroville is definitely one to check out. It's super famous, especially for its bass fishing. We're talking largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass – and sometimes you can pull in 20-50 bass in a single day! It's no wonder bass tournaments happen here all the time.

But it's not just about the bass. Lake Oroville is packed with other cool fish too, like Chinook salmon, catfish, rainbow trout, Coho salmon, and even sturgeon and crappie. The Feather River Fish Hatchery helps keep those salmon and Coho populations strong.

You can fish here year-round, and the best times often depend on what you're targeting. For bass, spring and early summer can be incredible, with lots of topwater action. Anglers hit up points, coves, and areas with structure like brush piles.

There are good access points with boat ramps, like Bidwell Canyon Marina, making it easy to get out on the water. Just remember to always grab a California sport fishing license and check the latest regulations from the Department of Fish and Wildlife before you head out.

Fish species (5)

  • Chinook Salmon
  • Kokanee Salmon
  • Largemouth Bass
  • Rainbow Trout
  • Spotted Bass

11 nearby spots · Center 39.5522, -121.4231 · Zoom 13 · Perimeter from OSM