Bear Gulch Reservoir, California: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  Bear Gulch Reservoir belongs to San Benito County, California. The shore lies 35 miles out. It covers about 3 acres, so this is small water you can walk round in under an hour. It is one of the smaller waters we list in San Benito County. Nearest town is Soledad, 8.3 miles off. The nearest city of size is Salinas, 29 miles away. The county edge is within a short distance of the bank.

• Where to Fish on Bear Gulch Reservoir

  Without a survey to go on, judge depth from how the bank falls away. Levels move with the draw rather than the rain on water like this. Built water gives depth close in, which suits a bank angler. Fish documented in San Benito County include Sacramento sucker, rainbow trout, bluegill and goldfish. County data is a starting point rather than a guarantee. Take Bear Gulch Reservoir a stretch at a time.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warmest month averages 71°F, the coldest about 47°F. The awkward stretch is midsummer, not midwinter. October and November give a second good stretch as it cools. Late winter often fishes better here than midsummer does. It holds true on Bear Gulch Reservoir more years than not.

• Tackle & Baits

  The rules here are undocumented as far as public sources go. The closest car park is half a mile away, so pack accordingly. There are picnic tables half a mile away. There are toilets half a mile off. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Read any posted signs at the access point rather than assuming. Close seasons apply to some species and not others. Dry Lake at 6.5 miles is the sensible second choice. Treat Bear Gulch Reservoir as unsettled until someone local tells you otherwise.