Beneath the warm California sun lies a hidden gem. It is called Upper Otay Reservoir. This 20-acre artificial lake in San Diego County holds a unique story. Created in 1959, Upper Otay Reservoir was initially a hatchery. Its purpose was to propagate and introduce Florida Largemouth bass.
Imagine this: It is the late 1950s. Scientists are carefully releasing fingerlings into the newly formed Upper Otay Reservoir. Little did they know, this experiment would yield remarkable results. Twenty-one of the twenty-five largest bass in history were progeny of those very fingerlings.
Upper Otay Reservoir has been open to the public since 1996. For years, waterfowl hunters flocked to its shores. That was until hunting was closed in 2002.
Let’s fast forward to 2014. The City of San Diego Public Utilities Department joined forces with Rivers Partners. Together, they embarked on a $1.2 million restoration project. Their focus was on approximately 100 acres. This included five small streams forming the Upper Otay Reservoir’s watershed.
Today, Upper Otay Reservoir offers a serene escape. Fishing is a popular activity here. But there are specific rules to protect the fish population. Only artificial lures with barbless hooks are allowed. It is strictly catch and release.
These rules aim to protect the last significant population of northern-strain largemouth black bass in the area. In Southern California, most waters now contain the Florida-strain version. Upper Otay Reservoir also houses bluegill, bullheads, and crappie. Threadfin shad and silverside minnows serve as their primary food source.
If you plan a visit to Upper Otay Reservoir, remember a few things. The gates are open seasonally from February through October. This is weather permitting. Pedestrian access for fishing is allowed from sunrise to sunset on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. A California fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older.
Float tubes are permitted within 150 feet of the shore. Waders are also welcome. Remember, no boats are allowed.
Upper Otay Reservoir offers a unique fishing experience. It also boasts beautiful natural surroundings. Take a moment to appreciate this man-made lake. It plays a vital role in local fish conservation. Upper Otay Reservoir is a testament to successful ecological management.