FISH
Shasta Lake Whiskeytown Sacramento River Lake Britton and more!
Fishing in Shasta Lake
Shasta Lake in Northern California is world-renowned for its diverse fishery, supporting a wide variety of both warm-water and cold-water fish species. Based on the extensive information available about this reservoir, here’s a comprehensive list of the types of fish found in Shasta Lake:
This list reflects the rich two-story fishery of Shasta Lake, where cold, deep waters support trout and salmon, while warmer shallow areas sustain bass, catfish, and panfish. Species like rainbow trout and Chinook salmon are bolstered by stocking programs from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, while others, such as brown trout and bass, maintain self-sustaining populations. Note that the presence and abundance of some species, like kokanee salmon, can fluctuate over time due to environmental conditions and management practices.
Fish in Shasta Lake:
- Largemouth Bass
- Smallmouth Bass
- Spotted Bass
- Rainbow Trout
- Brown Trout (including German Brown and Kamloops varieties)
- Brook Trout
- Chinook Salmon (also known as King Salmon; landlocked population)
- Kokanee Salmon (landlocked sockeye salmon, though less common in recent years)
- Black Crappie
- White Crappie
- Channel Catfish
- White Catfish
- Brown Bullhead (a type of catfish)
- Bluegill
- Green Sunfish
- Sturgeon (less commonly targeted but present)
- Carp (noted as a species that spawns in the lake)
Fishing in Whiskeytown Lake
Whiskeytown Lake in Shasta County is home to a variety of fish species, offering diverse angling opportunities. Whiskeytown Lake is only 15 minutes away from Redding and is one of Shasta County’s best-kept secrets.
Fishing in Whiskeytown Lake is abundant and draws many slueth anglers year-round.
Fish in Whiskeytown Lake:
- Kokanee Salmon (landlocked sockeye salmon)
- Rainbow Trout
- Brown Trout
- Brook Trout
- Largemouth Bass
- Smallmouth Bass
- Spotted Bass
- Sacramento Pikeminnow
- Sacramento Sucker
- Bluegill
- Channel Catfish
- Sunfish Species (general category, may include bluegill and other sunfish)
- Spring-run Chinook Salmon (federally threatened, primarily in lower Clear Creek below Whiskeytown Dam)
- Central Valley Steelhead Trout (federally threatened, primarily in lower Clear Creek below Whiskeytown Dam)
Notes:
Fishing in Lake Britton
Fish in Lake Britton:
- Rainbow Trout
- Brown Trout
- Smallmouth Bass
- Largemouth Bass
- Black Crappie
- White Crappie
- Bluegill
- Channel Catfish
- Carp
Notes:
Fishing in Lake Helen
Fish in Lake Helen:
- Rainbow Trout
- Brook Trout
Notes:
More Resources
Our monthly Shasta Fishing Report
There are many fantastic fishing locations throughout Shasta County, all year round. Please check the following local chambers of commerce for more information: