Rough and Ready Reservoir Fishing in Nevada County, California

• Overview

  Out in Nevada County, California, sits Rough and Ready Reservoir. The surface lies 2,106 feet up. The far bank is a conversation away, so keep low and quiet. It is a small entry by Nevada County standards. You are 3.5 miles from Lake Wildwood. The nearest city of size is Roseville, 34 miles away. A county boundary sits nearby, which can matter for local access rules.

• Where to Fish on Rough and Ready Reservoir

  Depth went unrecorded, which puts the reading back on you. A natural lake fishes on cover, and cover here means weed and timber. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. Nevada County records list brook trout, rainbow trout, tahoe sucker, brown trout and bluegill among the fish reported. At least one recorded species is protected in parts of its range; read the local rules before targeting anything. On Rough and Ready Reservoir the quiet end is the one worth the extra effort.

• Seasonal Patterns

  July runs about 74°F on average, December about 44°F. Winter is a mild inconvenience here, nothing more. Late winter and spring fish steadiest here. November and March are the quiet, comfortable months to be out. On Rough and Ready Reservoir the same rules apply, with local timing.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing on record says whether the bank is open or closed. Mapping shows no built access close by; expect to walk in from wherever you can leave the car. For the bass here, soft plastics worked slow along cover and a spinnerbait for searching do most of the work. Check whether a boat is allowed before you tow one. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. Rex Reservoir, 2 miles away, makes the obvious fallback. The position on Rough and Ready Reservoir is worth confirming on the day.