Santa Fe Reservoir in Los Angeles County: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  This water sits in Los Angeles County, California. The sea is 27 miles distant. With some 62 acres of water, there is room for a boat but no need of one. Around 1.8 miles of margin, front to back. It is low-lying compared with other California water we list. Head to Irwindale, 1.1 miles away, for anything you forgot. The big place round here is West Covina, 3.1 miles distant. It lies deep inside the county rather than near an edge.

• Where to Fish on Santa Fe Reservoir

  Depth is unknown to us, and the shoreline is the better guide. A reservoir gives you a hard edge, a shelf, and not much else. Standing timber shows when the level drops, and fish sit against it. Nearby survey and observation records mention bluegill, common carp, santa ana sucker, channel catfish and black crappie. Presence in the area does not guarantee a fish on the day. On Santa Fe Reservoir the quiet end is the one worth the extra effort.

• Seasonal Patterns

  August runs about 76°F on average, January about 55°F. Cold never shuts this water down; heat is the only limit. Season rules are a separate question. October and November give a second good stretch as it cools. Autumn steadies things again once the heat lets go. Santa Fe Reservoir fishes to that pattern most years.

• Tackle & Baits

  The bank is open to all, according to our records. A boat ramp sits about half a mile from the water. Parking is close: a car park sits half a mile from the bank. Toilets are half a mile away, which matters on a long session. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Gates get locked out of season on water like this. Signs go up and come down, so check on the day. Failing this one, try Baldwin Lake, 6.2 miles away. For Santa Fe Reservoir in particular, ask before you travel.