Lakes, streams & mountain waters
Fishing near the Tejon Pass
Quiet community lakes, an aqueduct-fed reservoir, and a large recreation lake off I-5 — plus seasonal forest streams for hike-in anglers.
Los Padres National Forest · Seasonal stream
A valid California fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older. Check current California fishing regulations for seasons, limits, and stocking before your trip.
Pine Mountain Club
Fern's Lake
Fern's Lake is a small lake within Pine Mountain Club, surrounded by pines. Fishing is catch-and-release, and poles can be checked out from the PMC Rec Room. The lake is open sunrise to dusk. As a community lake, access follows Pine Mountain Club's rules.
- Species
- Trout, Bluegill, Bass, Catfish
- Access
- Shore fishing. Open sunrise to dusk. Check in with Pine Mountain Club for current access rules.
Tejon Pass
Quail Lake Recreation Area
Quail Lake is a quiet reservoir fed by the California Aqueduct, popular for shore fishing. The setting is open and exposed, so bring shade and water on warm days.
- Species
- Striped bass, Catfish, Bluegill
- Access
- Shore fishing. Check current access and regulations before visiting.
South of Tejon Pass
Pyramid Lake
Pyramid Lake is a reservoir off Interstate 5 with boat launches, picnic areas, and shoreline access. Emigrant Landing rents patio boats, fishing boats, and jet skis. Private vessel operators need a California Boater Safety Card. Boat-in picnic areas at Spanish Point, Bear Trap, Yellowbar, and Serrano are first-come, first-served and accessible only by boat.
- Species
- Striped bass, Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, Rainbow trout, Channel catfish, Crappie
- Access
- Shore and boat fishing. Boat launches at Emigrant Landing; rentals available.
Backcountry waters
Los Padres National Forest streams
Seasonal creeks and mountain streams in the Los Padres National Forest can offer fishing during wetter months. Conditions and access vary widely. Always check current regulations and water levels before hiking in to fish.
- Species
- Seasonal — check regulations
- Access
- Hike-in. Conditions vary with season and rainfall.
When to fish
- Spring · March – May
- Good trout fishing and comfortable weather.
- Summer · June – August
- Early mornings and evenings are most productive.
- Fall · September – November
- Cooler temperatures and enjoyable days on the water.
- Winter · December – February
- Lower-elevation lakes can still produce, weather permitting.
Good to know
- A valid California fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older.
- Check current California fishing regulations for seasons, limits, and stocking information.
- Bring sunscreen, drinking water, and layered clothing — mountain weather changes quickly.
- Practice catch-and-release where possible to help preserve local fisheries.
Where the fish are
Pyramid Lake has boat rentals, picnic areas, and a free visitor center. See the full guide.
Pyramid Lake guide