Big Bear Lake Fishing: What to Know, What to Do & Where to Stay
Big Bear Lake is a hidden gem nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, offering anglers an unforgettable experience throughout the year. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, this 3,300-acre alpine lake provides diverse fishing opportunities, including rainbow trout, bass, catfish, and panfish. Whether you prefer fishing from the shore or trolling from a boat, Big Bear Lake is the perfect destination for anglers seeking a scenic and rewarding adventure.
What should you know about Big Bear Lake fishing?
- What it is: Big Bear Lake, a 3,300-acre alpine lake in Southern California, is a renowned fishing spot offering a variety of fish species.
- Why it matters: With its serene mountain views and diverse fish population, Big Bear Lake is considered one of Southern California’s top fishing destinations.
- Key highlights: The lake is home to rainbow trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, and bluegill, with year-round fishing opportunities.
- Best time to fish: Fishing is great year-round, with spring and early summer being particularly productive when the lake is stocked with fresh rainbow trout.
- Audience: Big Bear Lake is perfect for anglers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals.
What Fish Are in Big Bear Lake (and What’s Biting Now)
Big Bear Lake is stocked with rainbow trout, making it one of the most reliable fishing spots in Southern California. In addition to trout, anglers commonly catch:
- Largemouth bass
- Smallmouth bass
- Catfish
- Bluegill
What’s working best:
- Trout → PowerBait, nightcrawlers, small spoons
- Bass → shallow areas near rocks and structure
- Catfish → afternoon in warmer, shallow water
Be Prepared: Big Bear Fishing Tips, Rules & Where to Fish
Make sure to get the latest Fishing Report and read it before your trip for up-to-date conditions and rules. Fishing limits are in place to maintain a healthy fish ecosystem. Familiarize yourself with local guidelines to preserve Big Bear Lake’s thriving aquatic life.
Hot Spots:
- Stanfield Cutoff (North Shore)
- Juniper Point
- Meadow Park shoreline
- East Public Launch Ramp
What’s Biting:
- Rainbow Trout – Best success with PowerBait, inflated nightcrawlers, and small spoons or lures like Kastmasters. Early morning and late evening are still your most productive times.
- Largemouth Bass – Activity seems to be picking up in the shallows near submerged rocks and fallen trees.
- Catfish & Bluegill – Are much more active and biting near the docks and shallow, warmer water during the afternoons.
- Shore fishing remains productive with the recent stocking of trout for the late spring and summer—this fishing is recommended for families or casual anglers.
Tips:
- Use light tackle with 4-6 lb test for trout.
- Try drifting along with a slow troll if fishing from a boat.
- Review daily regulations and posted signs before wetting a line.
Where You Can and Can’t Fish in Big Bear Lake
Public shoreline areas
Parks + access points
NOT allowed:
- Marina docks
- Private lakefront homes
- Residential docks
Shore Fishing vs Boat Fishing in Big Bear Lake
You can fish Big Bear Lake from both the shoreline and a boat, depending on your experience and goals.
- Shore fishing: Best for beginners and families. Popular along the North Shore and public access points.
- Boat fishing: Ideal for reaching deeper water and less crowded areas. Available through local marinas and rentals.
Where to Get Fishing Gear in Big Bear Lake
You’ll find several local bait and tackle shops around Big Bear Lake offering:
- PowerBait and live bait
- Big Bear Sporting Goods (central, easy access)
- Big Bear Marina has its own tackle shop
- Mountain TopTackle Shop
- Rod and reel rentals
- Big Bear Sporting Goods (central, easy access)
- Goldsmith’s Sports (Moonridge area)
- Big Bear Marina has its own tackle shop
- Mountain TopTackle Shop
- Local fishing advice
- Big Bear Sporting Goods (central, easy access)
- Big Bear Marina has its own tackle shop
- Mountain TopTackle Shop
- Where to get your license
- Big Bear Sporting Goods (central, easy access)
- Big 5 Sporting Goods
- Mountain TopTackle Shop
Guided Fishing Trips in Big Bear Lake
If you’re new to fishing or want a more productive day on the water, guided fishing trips are available. Local guides like Cantrell’s docking out of Pine Knot Marina or Fish Big Bear at Big Bear Marina provide:
- Boats and equipment
- Knowledge of current fishing conditions
- Access to the best spots on the lake
Do You Need a Fishing License in Big Bear Lake?
Yes. Anyone 16 or older must have a valid California fishing license.
- Available online via California Department of Fish and Wildlife
- Also sold at local Big Bear sporting goods stores
- Options include day, multi-day, and annual licenses
California Fishing License Types and Rates for Fishing Big Bear Lake
- One-Day Sport License: $20.52
- Two-Day Sport License: $31.58
- Annual Sport License: $62.90 (Resident)
- Annual Sport License: $169.82 (Non-Resident)
- Special rates for Military, low-income, and impaired/disabled persons
- Lifetime License are available
- Ten-Day Non-California Resident Sport License: $62.90
- Valid for the specified term from date of purchase (or from date specified on the license)
What does a perfect fishing day look like?
Morning:
- Start early, before the sun rises, to get the best chance at catching rainbow trout or bass.
- Pack a breakfast and enjoy it lakeside as you fish along the shore.
Afternoon:
- Head out onto a boat or continue fishing from the shore at one of the many hot spots.
- Take a break with a packed lunch while soaking in the mountain views.
Evening:
- Try fishing from the dock during the golden hour when the lake is calm and the fish are most active.
- After a successful day of fishing, enjoy a relaxing dinner at a nearby lakeside restaurant or back at your cabin.
Plan Your Perfect Big Bear Fishing Trip with Destination Big Bear
If you plan on bringing your own boat for fishing, let us know so we can help you plan on staying at a lakefront cabin rental in Big Bear Lake or recommend a local Big Bear marina for easy access. Lake levels are low this year but there is still plenty of water for you to have an enjoyable stay.
To book your Big Bear Lake Fishing vacation rental, call (909) 752-0234 and let our local, experienced agents help you plan the perfect getaway. Destination Big Bear has lakefront, pet friendly and luxury vacation rentals in Big Bear close to all the desired destinations.
Find a Lakefront Rental
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FAQ: Big Bear Lake Fishing
Big Bear Lake is open for fishing from April 1 through October 31, offering excellent seasonal opportunities. Spring and early summer are especially popular thanks to regular trout stocking, while late summer and fall are great for bass and other species.
Yes, anglers 16 years or older need a valid California fishing license, which can be purchased online or at local stores in Big Bear. The lake is open for fishing from April 1 through October 31, and both day passes and season passes are available depending on how often you plan to fish.
Big Bear Lake is home to rainbow trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, and bluegill.
Both options are available. Shore fishing is allowed in many public areas around the lake, including designated access points, parks, and shoreline stretches. However, fishing is not permitted from private property, including marina docks, slips, and residential lakefront homes unless you have explicit permission.
If you want to reach deeper water or less crowded spots, renting a boat is a great option and often increases your chances of success.
