Frenchman Lake - Chilcot, CA
Lake Information
| Fish Species: | Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Smallmouth Bass, Brown Bullhead |
Frenchman Lake, Chilcot, CA, a prominent Plumas County reservoir, offers a robust multi-species fishery. Key species include rainbow, brown, and brook trout, kokanee salmon, and smallmouth bass. Current water temperature (55°F) is optimal for trout and salmon. Fishing action is rated 3/5, with peak activity during major and minor solunar periods, particularly early morning and evening. Trolling is highly effective for trout and kokanee, while smallmouth bass respond to jigs and crankbaits around rocky structure. Moderate winds (5 mph average) typically facilitate comfortable angling. Anglers should adhere to CDFW regulations to ensure sustainable management of this popular Sierra Nevada fishery.
Frenchman Lake Whoppers
| Species | Weight | Date | Report |
| Rainbow Trout | 3 lbs. 8 oz. | 6-17-2019 | View Report |
Latest Fish Plants
| Plant Date | Species | Source | Total Pounds |
| 9-02-2024 | Rainbow Trout | CDFW | |
| 5-23-2022 | Rainbow Trout | CDFW | |
| 6-07-2021 | Rainbow Trout | CDFW | |
| 8-09-2020 | Rainbow Trout | CDFW | |
| 5-24-2020 | Rainbow Trout | CDFW |
Latest Fish Reports
| Date | Report | Author |
| 11-13-2025 | Frenchman Lake Fishing Report This has been fishing good to very good... more » |
Reno Fly Shop |
| 9-4-2025 | Consistent Action Deep in the Lake Frenchman Lake is in a similar summer pattern,... more » |
Mountain Hardware & Sports |
| 8-13-2025 | Good action for shore anglers Shore anglers are finding good action at Lunker... more » |
Mountain Hardware & Sports |
| 7-2-2025 | Go! Midges and Callabaetis are hatching daily Go! Midges and Callabaetis are hatching daily, and... more » |
Pyramid Lake Fly Fishing |
| 6-8-2025 | In great shape and have water and have been stocked with some nice fish Frenchman’s and Davis are sleepers these days after... more » |
Pyramid Lake Fly Fishing |
Detailed Map
