Lake Skinner - Temecula, CA

Lake Information
Fish Species: | Striped Bass, Channel Catfish, Rainbow Trout, Largemouth Bass, Black Crappie, Common Carp, Bluegill, White Crappie |
Lake Skinner in Temecula, California, is a well-managed freshwater fishery offering year-round angling opportunities for largemouth bass, striped bass, rainbow trout, channel catfish, bluegill, and redear sunfish. Operated by Riverside County in partnership with the Metropolitan Water District, the lake spans 1,400 surface acres and provides both shore and boat access.
Rainbow trout are stocked by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife during the winter and early spring months. These fish are best targeted using PowerBait, inflated nightcrawlers, or small spoons and spinners, particularly during early morning and evening hours. Productive areas include the marina cove, shoreline points, and drop-offs accessible to boaters.
Largemouth bass fishing peaks in spring and fall, with soft plastics, jigs, and reaction baits producing best near submerged structure and rocky shorelines. Striped bass, while less abundant, offer strong seasonal action and are often targeted using swimbaits or cut bait in open water.
Channel catfish dominate summer fishing, especially during night hours. Popular baits include mackerel, chicken liver, and dip baits. Panfish are active in warm months, offering consistent action near weed beds and docks.
The lake enforces boat inspections for quagga mussels and requires day-use fees. A valid California fishing license is mandatory for those 16 and older. With its excellent infrastructure and diverse fishery, Lake Skinner stands as one of the most reliable public fishing destinations in Southern California.
Rainbow trout are stocked by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife during the winter and early spring months. These fish are best targeted using PowerBait, inflated nightcrawlers, or small spoons and spinners, particularly during early morning and evening hours. Productive areas include the marina cove, shoreline points, and drop-offs accessible to boaters.
Largemouth bass fishing peaks in spring and fall, with soft plastics, jigs, and reaction baits producing best near submerged structure and rocky shorelines. Striped bass, while less abundant, offer strong seasonal action and are often targeted using swimbaits or cut bait in open water.
Channel catfish dominate summer fishing, especially during night hours. Popular baits include mackerel, chicken liver, and dip baits. Panfish are active in warm months, offering consistent action near weed beds and docks.
The lake enforces boat inspections for quagga mussels and requires day-use fees. A valid California fishing license is mandatory for those 16 and older. With its excellent infrastructure and diverse fishery, Lake Skinner stands as one of the most reliable public fishing destinations in Southern California.
Lake Skinner Whoppers
Species | Weight | Date | Report |
Common Carp | 20 lbs. | 3-19-2019 | View Report |
Striped Bass | 12 lbs. | 12-02-2018 | View Report |
Largemouth Bass | 8 lbs. 13 oz. | 5-13-2025 | View Report |
Rainbow Trout | 6 lbs. | 3-13-2019 | View Report |
Largemouth Bass | 4 lbs. | 4-16-2019 | View Report |
Largemouth Bass | 3 lbs. 8 oz. | 4-16-2019 | View Report |
Rainbow Trout | 2 lbs. 8 oz. | 1-26-2019 | View Report |
Rainbow Trout | 1 lbs. 8 oz. | 12-28-2018 | View Report |
Rainbow Trout | 1 lbs. | 12-28-2018 | View Report |
Latest Fish Plants
Plant Date | Species | Source | Total Pounds |
5-23-2025 | Channel Catfish | Riverside County | 900 |
3-24-2025 | Rainbow Trout | CDFW | |
3-12-2025 | Rainbow Trout | Riv Co Parks | 825 |
3-05-2025 | Rainbow Trout | Riv Co Parks | 825 |
2-24-2025 | Rainbow Trout | CDFW |
Latest Fish Reports
Date | Report | Author |
5-13-2025 | 8.8 lb. Largemouth How do you sum up a good weekend?... more » |
Lake Skinner Marina Staff |
3-3-2025 | FREE annual Youth Fishing Clinic on Saturday, March 8th Join RivCoParks for our FREE annual Youth Fishing... more » |
Riverside County Regional Park and Open-Space District |
12-30-2024 | Ongoing construction at Lake Skinner Recreation Area Please be advised that due to ongoing construction... more » |
Riverside County Regional Park and Open-Space District |
5-15-2023 | Lake Skinner Fishing Report Trout: N/A Bluegill: N/A Largemouth: Have been more active, people... more » |
Lake Skinner Marina Staff |
4-24-2023 | Lake Skinner Fishing Report Largemouth Bass: Picking up due to weather heating... more » |
Lake Skinner Marina Staff |
Detailed Map
