Williams Reservoir in Modoc County: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  Williams Reservoir sits within Modoc County in California. It lies 5,013 feet above sea level. At some 323 acres it is far too large to cover on foot in a day. There is roughly 2.8 miles of shoreline here, which is a short walk end to end. It ranks high for size among our Modoc County listings. You are 21 miles from Alturas. The big place round here is Chico, 134 miles distant. Rules here are straightforward: one county, one set of rules.

• Where to Fish on Williams Reservoir

  Nothing in our records gives a depth for this one. Standing timber shows when the level drops, and fish sit against it. Points where the flooded channel swings in are the reliable ones. Across Modoc County, recorded fish include Sacramento sucker, modoc sucker, rainbow trout, green sunfish and brook trout. Species recorded across the county may be limited to a few waters. On Williams Reservoir a short move beats a long cast.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warmest month averages 65°F, the coldest about 29°F. The swings are modest, so patterns change slowly. It is not guaranteed even in a cold spell, so check yourself. The hot months push the fishing to dawn and dusk. Keep it in mind when planning a trip to Williams Reservoir. Barometer swings matter more than a degree or two.

• Tackle & Baits

  No public source sets out the position on this bank. Records show it does not hold water year-round. No launch point is recorded nearby, so this is a bank water unless you carry a boat in. Light line and small metal for the trout; a fly rod earns its place on calm evenings. Local rules can differ across the county line, so check where you stand. Where the way in crosses private ground, ask first. Should this one be busy, Duncan Reservoir is 1.9 miles off. What applies at Williams Reservoir may have changed since it was mapped.