Fishing at Deadhorse Flat Reservoir, Modoc County, California

• Overview

  California holds Deadhorse Flat Reservoir, in Modoc County. This is farm and woodlot country. The water covers around 426 acres, which puts most of it out of reach from the bank. Shoreline length is close to 5.1 miles, and each section fishes a little differently. It ranks high for size among our Modoc County listings. The closest town, Alturas, is 25 miles distant. Beyond it, Lakeview at 47 miles and Altamont at 55 miles. One jurisdiction covers this water end to end.

• Where to Fish on Deadhorse Flat Reservoir

  Depth is unknown to us, and the shoreline is the better guide. The arms fish better than the open middle whenever the water is up. Standing timber shows when the level drops, and fish sit against it. Fish documented in Modoc County include Sacramento sucker, modoc sucker and rainbow trout. Records at this level tell you what is in the area. On Deadhorse Flat Reservoir a short move beats a long cast.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Climate normals give 65°F for August and 29°F for January. The year turns gently, without extremes at either end. Some winters give nothing at all, so plan for open water. Autumn steadies things again once the heat lets go. On Deadhorse Flat Reservoir the same rules apply, with local timing.

• Tackle & Baits

  Public data does not answer the access question here. It is recorded as intermittent, which means the basin empties in dry spells. Nothing is mapped in the way of a ramp or car park within a short radius. Some banks are open only from a marked point. A polite question at the farm gate opens more banks than anything else. Failing this one, try Surveyors Valley Reservoir, 1.9 miles away. For Deadhorse Flat Reservoir, the notice at the access point is the final word.