Marsh Creek Reservoir in Contra Costa County: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  Marsh Creek Reservoir lies within the bounds of Contra Costa County, California. It sits 8.5 miles in from the sea. Around 51 acres of surface means several distinct areas to work. It lies lower than most water we list in California. The closest town, Brentwood, is 3.5 miles away. Antioch sits 9.3 miles out, and it is the nearest city worth the name. The county line is nowhere near, so one local authority covers the water.

• Where to Fish on Marsh Creek Reservoir

  Our records carry no depth, so judge it from the bank. Built water gives depth close in, which suits a bank angler. Held water runs deepest at the wall and shallows back to the inflow. Contra Costa County records list striped bass, green sturgeon and white sturgeon among the fish reported. Several of these carry legal protection or closed seasons; the rulebook comes before the rod. At Marsh Creek Reservoir the first feature you find is worth twenty minutes.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Expect July to average close to 75°F, with December the cold end at about 47°F. There is no frozen season to plan round. October and November give a second good stretch as it cools. June to September is hot work, so the first and last hours are what count. Anyone fishing Marsh Creek Reservoir regularly works to that calendar.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing in our records says who may fish here. Parking sits half a mile out, which makes for a walk with tackle. Marsh Creek State Park covers ground next to the water; its rules will apply on that side. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Look for a notice board at the entrance. Access can change hands, so last year's answer may not hold. If the gate is shut, Los Vaqueros Reservoir at 4.8 miles is the nearest alternative. None of that is settled for Marsh Creek Reservoir in what we hold.