Cliff Lake near Chester: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  Cliff Lake lies within the bounds of Plumas County, California. It lies 7,362 feet above sea level. Small at around 5 acres: two anglers spread out cover most of it. Our Plumas County list holds plenty of bigger water. 17 miles away sits Chester, the nearest town. For a city, Chico is 55 miles off. The county edge is within a short distance of the bank.

• Where to Fish on Cliff Lake

  Our records carry no depth, so judge it from the bank. Look for the band where the shallows give up and the bottom falls away. The shallow end warms first and pulls fish in ahead of the rest. County-wide records name rainbow trout, brook trout, Sacramento sucker and brown trout. County records show the wider picture rather than this one place. Cliff Lake gives up its fish to patience rather than distance.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The seasonal spread runs 28°F to 58°F. The swings are modest, so patterns change slowly. It should never be assumed safe, whatever the month says. February into May fishes hardest as the water warms. Time your trip to Cliff Lake by conditions rather than dates. Long daylight spreads fish out; short daylight concentrates them.

• Tackle & Baits

  Whether you may fish here is not something records settle. Mapping records no facilities at all near this water. Trout here take small spinners, spoons and, where fly water allows, a nymph or dry. Bank access can be seasonal on ground like this. Access can change hands, so last year's answer may not hold. Failing this one, try Shadow Lake, 0.7 miles away. Confirm access to Cliff Lake locally before you travel.