Fishing with Big Bear's Best

Since 1887, fishing has been a favorite pastime for Big Bear Lake visitors and locals alike. Over the generations, the most avid anglers have picked up a thing or two across their many hours of trolling, beading, and casting and are happy to share their secrets!

Keep reading to learn the top 5 tips and tricks for aspiring Big Bear fisherman:

1. Where are best fishing spots?

This largely depends on the species and the season. If we’re talking rainbow trout – Big Bear’s fish of note – the springtime sees an even distribution of fish from the Dam to Stanfield Cutoff. They also tend to be more hungry as the winter months have deprived them of a regular feast of insects. In the summer months, trout, bass and catfish are usually found to the west near the dam. This is because the fish can swim deeper into their preferred, colder waters.

2. When is the best time of day to fish?

Big Bear’s most dedicated anglers are typically seen puttering out into the lake at the near crack of down. Many marinas open as early as 6 AM letting fishermen start their hunt when the waters are at their coldest. Scott Eberhard, owner and operator of Cantrell Guide Service, explains that especially for summer fishing, early mornings, late afternoons and evenings are best. The morning water also tends to be the most calm as the riff-raff of jet skiers, wakeboarders and speed boaters have yet to frighten all the fish away!

3. Is fishing permitted at marinas & docks?

Be sure to ask permission from the marina and dock owners beforehand, but if allowed, crappie and blue gill often hang around these shoreline areas ready to be hooked. You may also see hunters along the shoreline with their bow and arrows at the ready looking to spearhead the invasive carp species.

4. What fishing gear or bait should I use?

Again, this can depend on the species. For rainbow trout, night crawlers – yep, those simple worms – are often a favorite. Successful anglers have also touted garlic infused baits as an irresistible attractant when casting for these fish. While bass tend to mostly snag live bait, some lures that imitate smaller fishes are also successful. When using lures, it is typically suggested to use brightly colored lures on a sunny day while sticking to darker colors on a cloudy, overcast day.

5. Make sure you don’t end up as fish food!

Big Bear sits at about 7,000 feet altitude, in a dry climate, so it’s important to look after yourself by staying properly hydrated and sunscreened! And let’s admit, there’s nothing better than a refreshing drink whilst kicking back and waiting for the first bite. Pair that with a savory sandwich and chips and that's fishing in style!

Local Angler Files

Whether it's in Big Bear or anywhere else, fishing makes for some incredible stories, memories and experiences. Read some of our locals' favorite moments on the water.