Lake Piru - Piru, CA

Lake Piru, located in Ventura County near the town of Piru, is a 1,200-acre reservoir known for consistent warmwater fishing in a scenic and lightly developed setting. Managed by the United Water Conservation District, the lake supports largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish, and occasional trout.

Largemouth bass are the primary target, especially during spring when fish move shallow to spawn. Anglers use plastics, jigs, and spinnerbaits around flooded brush and rocky points. In summer, deeper techniques such as drop-shotting and Carolina rigs are more effective. Smallmouth bass inhabit rocky zones and respond well to jerkbaits and finesse rigs.

Crappie fishing is best in spring and fall around brush piles and docks, using small jigs or minnows. Bluegill and redear sunfish provide reliable action in summer, particularly near weed beds using live bait.

Channel catfish are caught throughout the warm months using cut bait and stink baits fished on the bottom in deeper coves and creek arms. Trout are rarely stocked now and are only an occasional catch during cool months.

Lake Piru offers boat rentals, launch ramps, and camping. Quagga mussel inspections are required. A California fishing license is mandatory, and all CDFW regulations apply.

Lake Piru’s quiet atmosphere, healthy bass fishery, and multiple species make it a solid choice for Southern California freshwater anglers.