Los Banos Reservoir - Los Banos, CA

Los Banos Reservoir in the Central Valley of California is a popular destination for warmwater fishing, especially for largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. The reservoir’s calm waters and abundant aquatic structure make it an ideal spot for anglers to catch bass, particularly in the spring and summer months when the fish are actively feeding. Largemouth bass can be targeted with techniques like soft plastics, crankbaits, and topwater lures. Crappie fishing is also excellent at Los Banos, with the spring spawning season being the best time to catch these fish. Anglers often use small jigs or minnows to target crappie along the shoreline. In the summer, catfish fishing becomes a popular activity, as catfish become more active in the warmer waters. Live bait such as worms and shad are commonly used to catch catfish, which thrive in the reservoir’s bottom mud and rocky areas. For beginners and families, Los Banos Reservoir also offers fishing for smaller species like bluegill and sunfish, which can be easily caught using worms or small lures. The reservoir provides both boat access and shoreline fishing opportunities, making it a versatile spot for anglers of all skill levels to enjoy year-round.