Black Lake in San Luis Obispo County: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  Black Lake is set in San Luis Obispo County, California. Height above sea level is 39 feet. About 11 acres of surface, which puts the far bank inside easy sight. It lies lower than most water we list in California. The nearest place of any size is Callender, 0.5 miles away. Oceano is 2.9 miles away, with Arroyo Grande at 4.3 miles. This one sits near enough to a boundary to be worth checking.

• Where to Fish on Black Lake

  We hold no depth figure for this one. Being tidal, the water moves twice a day, and the fishing moves with it. The shallow end warms first and pulls fish in ahead of the rest. Bays and points beat straight shoreline every time on water like this. Across San Luis Obispo County, recorded fish include jack mackerel, flathead grey mullet, yellowtail amberjack and rainbow trout. Take it as the county picture rather than a promise for this water. On Black Lake the quiet end is the one worth the extra effort.

• Seasonal Patterns

  In an average year September sits at 62°F and January at 52°F. The awkward stretch is midsummer, not midwinter. March through May is the strongest run, with autumn a second stretch. June to September is hot work, so the first and last hours are what count. At Black Lake the season follows that pattern closely.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing we hold confirms whether access is permitted. The closest car park is half a mile away, so pack accordingly. Overnight stays are possible half a mile away. There are toilets half a mile off. Light line and small metal for the trout; a fly rod earns its place on calm evenings. Look for a notice board at the entrance. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. Mud Lake at 0.6 miles is the sensible second choice. Treat Black Lake as unsettled until someone local tells you otherwise.