Fishing at Nagel Reservoir, Lassen County, California

• Overview

  California holds Nagel Reservoir, in Lassen County. This is rolling hill country. This is a pocket water of some 8 acres, and every part of it is reachable from the bank. The nearest place of any size is Susanville, 3.9 miles away. Beyond it, Johnstonville at 4.7 miles and Janesville at 8.9 miles. No county line comes close, which keeps the paperwork simple.

• Where to Fish on Nagel Reservoir

  The records we hold are silent on depth, so plan to find it yourself. Points where the flooded channel swings in are the reliable ones. Levels move with the draw rather than the rain on water like this. Across Lassen County, recorded fish include rainbow trout, tahoe sucker and Sacramento sucker. Those are county-wide records, so not every one of them will be in this water. On Nagel Reservoir the first feature you find is usually worth a session.

• Seasonal Patterns

  In an average year July sits at 65°F and January at 29°F. The year turns gently, without extremes at either end. It is not guaranteed even in a cold spell, so check yourself. November and March are the quiet, comfortable months to be out. At Nagel Reservoir the season follows that pattern closely.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing in our records says who may fish here. Records show it does not hold water year-round. Mapping shows no built access close by; expect to walk in from wherever you can leave the car. For the trout, small spinners and a box of nymphs cover both approaches. Sort the permit out before you load the car. Where the way in crosses private ground, ask first. Should this one be busy, Ridenoure Reservoir is 1.1 miles off. Check the position at Nagel Reservoir before loading the car.