South Freshwater Fish Report
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Updated August 28, 2026
SANTA ANA RIVER LAKES — There’s great fishing for catfish, but the size is notably smaller than years passed. Still, there’s plenty of 3- to 5- pound models available. Mackerel is the all-time king here, but this year shrimp has moved up the list. Chicken liver is option number 3. Tilapia are still being caught on nightcrawlers as well. Float tubes are no longer allowed, but campers can fish overnight, and there are frequently some very large catfish taken after dark. During catfish season, the lake is open until 11p.m. on Thursdays.
SANTA MARGARITA LAKE – “Margarita is still in good shape at 91% and keeping a solid bite in the weeds, tules and mats for anglers using frogs and punch rigs,” said guide Doug Rice (RGSFish.com). “Crappie are moving out to 15 to 22 feet on humps, islands and over willows. Heavier jigs in 3/32 make the job easy and color is up to you.
SANTEE LAKES – Bluegill and small bass are the name of the game here. Bass are available on Drop-shots or wacky rigged Senkos. There’s the occasional topwater fish too. Bluegill will take a small piece of nightcrawler or a mealworm under a bobber near shoreline cover, like tules. Catfish season was a quick one, but there still might be one willing to take some mackerel or shrimp.
SAN VICENTE RESERVOIR – Most anglers are focusing on better bites at other lakes, but those that are coming out should throw a frog or topwater up near shoreline cover before the sun gets up for a few solid blowups. A Fluke or other soft plastic jerkbait is a staple here as well. Otherwise, a Margarita Mutilator Roboworm on a Drop-shot will get a few fish.
SILVERWOOD LAKE – Dock fishing has been suspended indefinitely after an angler caused a fire by breaking the rules and smoking on the dock. A dockhand noticed extinguished the fire before a lot more damage was done. Like Lake Perris, Silverwood is checking for California Boaters Cards before allowing boaters to launch their vessels.
SKINNER LAKE — Bass anglers are doing well working tule edges working swimbaits, finesse plastics and the urchin-style baits. Lake staffers are saying numbers are excellent on the smaller largemouth, and there are some larger models in the mix. At times, the largemouth are found boiling in open water, and there have been reports of big numbers being put up by anglers working jerkbaits when that is happening. The striped bass scene remains quiet, but solid fishing for catfish and panfish are picking up the slack. The cats are showing up around the inlet, various coves and even open water spots for anglers using shrimp, sardines or dip baits. Bluegill have slowed a little but they’re biting close to shore throughout the East End on redworms, mealworms and nightcrawlers.
