Rucker Lake, California: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  You will find Rucker Lake in Nevada County, California. The ground around here is open valley. It runs to roughly 67 acres — big enough to hold fish away from the bank, small enough to learn. The bank runs about 1.3 miles all the way round, so one visit can cover most of it. Nearest town is Nevada City, 21 miles off. The nearest city of size is Reno, 47 miles away. Two sets of local rules meet not far from this water.

• Where to Fish on Rucker Lake

  Our records carry no depth, so judge it from the bank. The old creek line under the surface is the feature worth finding. Points where the flooded channel swings in are the reliable ones. County-wide records name brook trout, rainbow trout, tahoe sucker, brown trout and bluegill. At least one recorded species is protected in parts of its range; read the local rules before targeting anything. On Rucker Lake that means starting tight and working out.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Climate normals give 63°F for August and 33°F for January. Most months fish reasonably, given the right weather. Hard water here is never dependable, so check for yourself before stepping out. The hot months push the fishing to dawn and dusk. Rucker Lake runs to its own calendar within the local pattern.

• Tackle & Baits

  We hold no note on access for this one. A carry of half a mile from the nearest parking is the price of fishing here. A rest area sits about half a mile from the water. A toilet block sits half a mile away. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Look for a notice board at the entrance. Signs go up and come down, so check on the day. For a change of water, Fuller Lake is 0.5 miles distant. Check the position at Rucker Lake before loading the car.