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This popular lake, the result of an Army Corps of Engineers project, provides a cool place for outdoor recreation and is a fine bass fishery. The winter months in particular provide excellent fly fishing opportunities. There are three boat ramps and some 40 miles of shoreline to explore. All this, plus other handy facilities and an easy 12-mile drive off Interstate 5, make this lake a fun fly rod adventure.

Black Butte Reservoir is best known for its spring crappie populations. These fish grow to two pounds or more! Largemouth bass up to six pounds are also popular game fish around the reservoir. The black bass population is hit pretty hard during the peak spring angling months. Consider midweek adventures to increase your chance of a quality outing. Try small, protected coves on the western shore for the most consistent action. Stumps, rocky cover, and tapering points of land are the best features to explore.

To get to Black Butte Reservoir, take Interstate 5 to the farming town of Orland, about 40 miles south of Red Bluff. Exit west on Black Butte Lake Road. Then go 12 miles on Newville Road.

Great spring crappie fishing! Photo by John Sherman.

Types of Fish

Largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish.

Known Baitfish

Crayfish and minnows.

Equipment to Use

Rods: 5–7 weight, 8½–9 feet in length.

Reels: Palm or mechanical drag.

Lines: Floating, intermediate, or sink tip type-3.

Leaders: 1X to 5X, 5–9 feet in length.

Wading: Wear hip boots for fishing from the bank. Use a float tube for fishing along the shore and in coves.

Flies to Use

Nymphs: Jansen Callibaetis, Zug Bug #14, Pheasant Tail #16.

Streamers: Hot Flash Minnow, Clouser Minnow, Whitlock Near Nuff Sculpin, Zonker #6, Burk’s V-Worm #10, Whitlock Softshell Crayfish #8, Poxybou Crayfish #4–8.

Topwater: Gurgler #2, Deer Hair Mouse, Dave’s Hopper #6, Gaines Bluegill Popper #12.

When to Fish

Fish for bass all year, prime time is spring. For panfish, especially crappie, fish spring and fall.

Seasons & Limits

General season all year, consult local fly shops or the California Department of Fish & Game regulations booklet.

Accommodations & Services

Three launch ramps, a supply store, marina, boat rentals, and a variety of campsites are at the lake. Lodging and gas are available in Orland.

Rating

A lot of boats, like warm water, can put the fish down; otherwise, a good 6.