Lake Berryessa is one of the top fisheries in the state. The lake is located in the foothills just out side of Winters, CA. At an elevation of 440 feet, Beryessa holds a surface water area of 13,000 plus acres and a shore line of 175 miles. As a low elevation lake the water in the summer can reach temps over 75 degrees.

     Berryessa is known for its great population of Kokanee, King Salmon and Rainbow Trout. This lake was planted in the late eighties to early nineties with these land locked fireballs.  The most popular places to catch these salmon are the dam area, also known as the Ball Field, and the main body of the lake at Skiers Cove, the Ranch House, Spanish Flats, Goat Island, as well as the Big Island at mid lake. 

     The Kings usually start biting in early spring and continue the greatest action through the late months of June into a early July.  After that, they seem to disappear.  I think it may have something to do with the summer temperatures and the water getting so hot that they hug the bottom and don't come up until winter. 

     The average size King for Berryessa ranges from 12 to 23 inches, although I have seen and also broke off larger ones in the four to seven pound class. The way to fish these Land Lock Kings is to imitate wounded bait fish.  These Kings may be in the lake, but they are programmed to survive out in the ocean.

     Here are some tactics I have found to work best.  Try rolling shad and anchovies.  You can also use Sep's Dodgers with Grubs, or Dodgers with squid skirts known as Hoochies.  Try In-Line Flashers, as well as different kinds of Spoons and Spinners, etc.

     When fishing for these Kings, you need to not forget to use plenty of scent.  My favorites are Pro Cure Shad Gel and Krill Gel.  The fish need to also see your presentation, and feel the vibration, so that is why you use the Dodgers and In-Line flashers in different colors and sizes.  Also try tipping your lure or hook with a piece of mini crawler.  Use your electronics to look for large bait balls over suspended creek channels, under water structure, and the king salmon will typically be in the area working their food source.

    I recommend using a 7ft to 7�9� rod with a light to moderate light action, and at least 6 to 8 pound test.  Downriggers will help you get down to the depths of these fish which within a matter of months will reach depths of 45 to 110 feet. Every one of these kings fights differently, but they all have one thing on their mind, and that is to break you off or spit the hook. 

    I have been fishing this lake for over 25 years and because of the efforts of California Inland Fisheries Foundation and their members, as well as the Department of Fish & Game, I put this lake at the top of my list, as one of the finest, if not the best fresh water salmon fisheries in the state. 

Troy Barr, (707) 372-7599

T-Roy's Guide Service 

View Current  Lake Berryessa Fishing Report