Fishing at Folsom Lake

Folsom Lake provides habitat for largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass. Many bass over 10 pounds have been taken from the lake and the record largemouth bass topped 16 pounds. The lake also holds good populations of rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, crappie, bluegill and catfish.

Where to Fish on Folsom Lake

The South Fork section of the lake is known for producing trophy-size bass. Among the most popular fishing hot spots are New York Creek Cove, Hancock Creek, Jacks Shack, and Deep Ravine. Up the North Fork many of the inlets and coves have submerged boulders that provide good cover for fish. Fishermen often focus on the area around Anderson Island. Farther up the canyon the Rattlesnake Bar area is well known for its superior fishing.

Around the main body of Folsom Lake anglers have a lot of success along the shore of the main peninsula between the two river forks. They also do well down near the dam at Folsom Point and Beal's Point.

Trophy Fish Caught in Folsom Lake and Lake Natoma

Rainbow trout - 27 pounds, caught in Lake Natoma October 2005 by Frank Palmer. California state record.
Rainbow trout - 23 pounds, caught in Lake Natoma January 2000 by Jeremy Brucklacher
Largemouth bass - 16+ pounds, caught in Folsom Lake

Which Baits and Lures Are Catching Fish at Folsom Lake?

Bass

Rip Baits such as Smithwick or TD Minnow, Rapala Shallow Shad, Plastic Worms (brown and green), Zara Spooks, Rico, Spoons of various sizes, Spinnerbaits, Crank Baits, Frogs, Senkos

Trout and Salmon

Power Bait, Nightcrawlers, Hum Dingers, Troll with minnow imitations, Silver Spoons, Salmon Eggs

Crappie

Small Minnows

Catfish

Nightcrawlers, Mackerel, Chicken Livers, Crayfish, Minnows

Bluegill

Worms