Fishing Whiskeytown Lake

What's biting on Whiskeytown Lake by month, the latest stocking reports, limits, bait shops and the gear to bring.

Photo: Bureau of Reclamation · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Rentals, stays & trips for Whiskeytown LakePartner links · same price for you
Fishing charterHalf and full-day trips, gear includedViator Rent a boat on Whiskeytown LakePontoons, ski and fishing boats from local ownersBoatsetter Stay near Whiskeytown LakeLake cabins, vacation homes and hotelsExpedia · Vrbo Private campsiteWhen the public sites are fullHipcamp

Heads up: Off-season trips are quieter. Many owners still rent on calm, sunny weekends.

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What's biting

Fish in Whiskeytown Lake

SpeciesOriginBest monthsNotes
Rainbow troutStocked Jan, Feb, Mar, Dec Last stocked Aug 2, 2026.

Recent stocking

  • TroutAug 2, 2026
  • TroutMar 29, 2026
  • TroutDec 14, 2025
  • TroutNov 16, 2025

CDFW Fish Planting Schedule

Gear for these fish

Partner links

Rainbow trout

Fly rods, reels and fliesTrident Fly Fishing→Fiberglass fly rods and kitsEpic Fly Rods→Spoons, spinners and minnow luresRapala→

For every angler

Landing nets and fly boxesEGO Fishing→Sun-protective fishing shirtsHook & Tackle→Fishing shirts, shorts and vestsColumbia→

⚑ Limits.See the full limits table on the Whiskeytown Lake page, and always confirm with the California Freshwater Sport Fishing Regulations (wildlife.ca.gov) before you fish.

Good to know

Questions about Whiskeytown Lake

What fish are in Whiskeytown Lake?

Whiskeytown Lake has Rainbow trout. Rainbow trout is stocked by the state.

Is Whiskeytown Lake stocked with fish?

Yes. The most recent state planting report for Whiskeytown Lake lists Trout the week of 2026-08-02. Sign up on this page to get an email when it's stocked again.

Do I need a fishing license at Whiskeytown Lake?

Yes. In California, anyone 16 or older needs a California fishing license, and some waters need extra stamps or validations. Check the state wildlife agency for current rules before you fish.