Fishing at Castaic Lake

Castaic Lake is well known as a trophy largemouth bass fishing destination. March seems to be the best month to land a trophy fish. The lake is also home to striped bass, rainbow trout, catfish, and crappie. The Lagoon has good populations of trout and largemouth bass. Shore fishing at the Lagoon is only permitted on the east side. Night fishing is permitted at the Lagoon, a good time to go after catfish.

Where to Fish on Castaic Lake

The state record largemouth bass was caught near the main boat launch ramp. Bass anglers have a number of favorite haunts on the lake, including Government Cove, the waters off Sharon's Rest, Suicide Point, and around C-Point. Bass anglers also mention the area around the west boat ramp. Stripers are often caught near Kong Island, C-Point, and up Elizabeth Canyon.

Rainbow trout prefer the deep water near the dam. Catfish enjoy the shallows of the coves and areas around the dam. The cove around Hawk's Nest is a good place for pan fish. At the Castaic Lagoon fish along the rocks on the south shore and near the east ramp. Other good places include the south shore by the bridge.

Record Fish from Castaic Lake

• Largemouth Bass:
  • 21 pounds, 12 ounces (state record), caught by Michael Arujo March 5, 1991
  • 22 pounds, 1 ounce, caught by Bob Crupi, March 1991
  • 21 pounds, caught by Bob Crupi, March 1990
• Striped Bass: 43 pounds, 1 ounce, caught by Robert Flaata, February 2004.
• Channel Catfish: 47 pounds, 8 ounces, caught by Robert Flaata, September 2006
• Castaic Lagoon Largemouth Bass: 19 pounds, 3 ounces, caught by Butch Brown, March 2008

Which Baits and Lures Are Catching Fish at Castaic Lake?

Bass

Crawdads, Shallow Diving Holographic Gold/Black Crankbait, Berkley realistic minnows, Robo Worms, jigs, shad imitations, plastic grubs or worms, spinnerbaits, trout imitation plugs

Trout

Spinners, Kastmasers, PowerBait, Nightcrawlers, Panther Martins

Catfish

Mackerel, Nightcrawlers, PowerBait

Bluegill

Crickets, Meal Worms