Boating & Fishing at Lake Casitas 🚤

Whether you’re here to catch a trophy bass or spend the day cruising the lake, Casitas is a go-to destination for boaters and anglers alike. With stunning scenery, calm waters, and full amenities, it’s the perfect place to cast out or launch in.

⚠️ Boat At Your Own Risk:

Casitas Municipal Water District and Lake Casitas Recreation Area hereby declare that they are not responsible for, and assume no liability arising from fire, theft, damage to, or loss of any vehicle, vessel, or personal property. Only a license of space is granted — no bailment is created.

By voluntarily launching, the boater acknowledges they have read and agree to the provisions of this advisement.

🎣 Fishing at Lake Casitas:

Lake Casitas is known for some of the best bass fishing in California. In fact, 4 of the top 10 biggest bass catches ever recorded came from right here.

Species You’ll Find:

• Largemouth bass (trophy class 🐟)
• Rainbow trout
• Bluegill, crappie & redear sunfish
• Channel catfish

🎫 A valid California fishing license is required for all anglers 16 and older. Licenses and supplies are available at the Marina Bait & Tackle Shop.

🛥️ Boating at Lake Casitas:

From fishing boats to canoes and kayaks, Lake Casitas offers a calm, scenic space for boaters — with important rules in place to help protect the lake.

Boating Details:

• Boats must be 11–35 ft long and at least 4 ft wide
• Coyote Launch Ramp and Santa Ana Launch Ramp are the two primary access points
• Only hard-shell boats, canoes, and kayaks are permitted
• All watercraft must pass a mandatory Quagga Mussel Inspection
• Rentals available at the Marina Bait & Tackle Shop

Inflatable watercraft of any kind are not allowed

(Some hybrid kayaks with rigid bottoms and inflatable sides may be reviewed case-by-case — please call ahead if you're unsure.)

🌙 Moonlight Fishing Events:

On select full moon weekends, guests can enjoy fishing from the shore after hours — a peaceful, one-of-a-kind experience.

Moonlight Fishing Info:

• Shoreline only
• Ends at 11:00 PM
• Regular day-use and inspection rules apply
• Bring a flashlight and dress for cooler temps

🦠 Invasive Species Quagga Muscle Prevention:

All vessels, including kayaks, canoes, and trailered boats, must undergo a mandatory inspection and 35-day quarantine before launching at Lake Casitas.

• Vessels are cabled and tagged after passing inspection
• Must remain dry and out of any water for 35 days
• Inflatable watercraft are not permitted
• 💧 To learn more or view inspection requirements, visit our Boat Inspections & Quagga Mussel Info page

 💵 Personal Vessel Fees:

• Boat Launch (Day Use): $20.00
• Kayak/Canoe Launch (Day Use): $10.00 
• Initial Inspections + Cable & Lock: $75 per vessel
• Re-Inspection: $40.00

🔒 All personal vessels must pass a Quagga Mussel Inspection and complete a 35-day quarantine before launching.

🛶 Rentals:

Looking to hit the water without bringing your own vessel? Rentals are available onsite!

• Fishing boats, kayaks, and canoes available
• Gear, bait, and tackle also available for purchase
• Call the Marina Bait & Tackle/Boat Rentals Shop at (805) 649‑2043 for availability and rates

For any additonal questions, please call our Guest Services at (805) 649‑1122
Or stop by the Marina Bait & Tackle Shop inside the park.