Lake Merced Fishing in City and County of San Francisco, California

• Overview

  The City and County of San Francisco entry here is Lake Merced, in California. The coast is 1 mile away. It runs to roughly 82 acres — big enough to hold fish away from the bank, small enough to learn. A shoreline of some 2.3 miles keeps the choices simple. It is the biggest water on our City and County of San Francisco list. The town to know is Parkside, 1.7 miles out. Daly City is 1.9 miles away, with Broadmoor at 2.2 miles. A county line runs close by, so local bylaws can differ within a short drive.

• Where to Fish on Lake Merced

  The records we hold are silent on depth, so plan to find it yourself. Being tidal, the water moves twice a day, and the fishing moves with it. A soft bed grows weed late into autumn, which keeps fish shallow. Look for the band where the shallows give up and the bottom falls away. Species logged across City and County of San Francisco include common carp, koi and striped bass. Species recorded across the county may be limited to a few waters. On Lake Merced a short move beats a long cast.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warmest month averages 63°F, the coldest about 50°F. Heat sets the pattern from late spring onward. March through May is the strongest run, with autumn a second stretch. November and March are the quiet, comfortable months to be out. On Lake Merced that shapes the whole year.

• Tackle & Baits

  We have no record of the rules that apply on this bank. Records list it as a natural water body rather than an impoundment. A boat ramp sits about half a mile from the water. You will be walking about half a mile from the nearest car park. A toilet block sits half a mile away. Fort Funston covers this ground, which means extra rules to check. Rules for this water may differ from the county norm. Some water is controlled locally without a sign saying so. Confirm access to Lake Merced locally before you travel.