Los Vaqueros Reservoir - Livermore, CA

Los Vaqueros Reservoir in Livermore, California, is a preeminent angling destination, distinguished by its diverse, trophy-caliber fisheries and robust conservation practices.

The reservoir's cornerstone is its exceptional striped bass population, frequently yielding specimens exceeding 10 pounds. These powerful predators are targeted through trolling large plugs, utilizing swimbaits, or deploying live bait. Substantial and consistent plantings of rainbow trout, often including trophy-sized individuals, provide an excellent coldwater fishery, primarily pursued via trolling or traditional bait methods.

Los Vaqueros also sustains a robust largemouth and smallmouth bass fishery, successfully engaged with a wide array of artificial lures across varied submerged structures. Abundant catfish and various panfish further diversify angling opportunities.

Access is comprehensive, with two primary recreation areas offering extensive boat launches, rental fleets, and extensive bank fishing. A valid California fishing license is mandated for all anglers aged 16 and above. Strict adherence to both CDFW regulations and specific Contra Costa Water District (CCWD) rules, including motor restrictions and tackle requirements, is compulsory to ensure compliance and ecological preservation.