Nestled in San Diego‘s East County, San Vicente Reservoir is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. After an eight-year closure, the reservoir reopened in 2016, boasting a massive dam-raising project that more than doubled its capacity.
As one of San Diego‘s premier lake destinations, it offers a range of activities, from world-class fishing to exciting water sports. The reservoir’s transformation has created new shorelines, coves, and underwater structures, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Whether you’re looking to cast a line or enjoy water activities, San Vicente Reservoir is a must-visit destination in California. With its improved facilities, including a new marina and expanded boat launch area, you’re in for an unforgettable experience.
San Vicente Reservoir: A Premier Destination in San Diego County
San Vicente Reservoir is a hidden gem in San Diego County, offering a mix of recreation and natural beauty. As you visit this stunning location, you’ll discover a rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and a wide range of activities to enjoy.
History and Transformation of the Reservoir
The San Vicente Reservoir has a fascinating history that dates back to 1943 when it was originally constructed. The City of San Diego knew that the area’s need for water would increase over the years, and the lake would have to be made larger. After studies and engineering, the plan was to raise the dam by 117 feet, creating one of the largest dam-raising projects in American history. This revolutionary project more than doubled the reservoir’s capacity, adding 152,000 acre-feet of water storage to help secure San Diego County’s water future during droughts and emergencies.
The transformation created entirely new shorelines, underwater topography, and habitat zones that have dramatically enhanced both the recreational value and ecological diversity of the lake. As a result, San Vicente Reservoir has become a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Southern California.
When to Visit and What to Expect
When planning your visit to San Vicente Reservoir, consider that it operates Thursday through Monday, with Mondays reserved exclusively for fishing activities. Spring and fall typically offer the most pleasant weather conditions, while summer provides extended daylight hours for maximum enjoyment of water activities. Be prepared for potential temperature fluctuations throughout the day due to the reservoir’s elevation and surrounding landscape.
As a first-time visitor, you can expect a well-maintained facility with modern amenities, including picnic areas, restrooms, and a state-of-the-art six-lane boat launch ramp. Whether you’re looking to fish, boat, or simply enjoy the scenery, San Vicente Reservoir has something for everyone.
Fishing Adventures at San Vicente Reservoir
San Vicente Reservoir has gained a legendary status among fishing enthusiasts for its exceptional bass fishing. The reservoir’s unique history of being closed for eight years allowed fish populations to thrive undisturbed, creating what many consider Southern California’s premier bass fishery.
Bass Fishing: Tips and Hotspots
Bass fishing at San Vicente Reservoir is incredibly productive, with largemouth bass being the primary target. You’ll find productive bass fishing in depths ranging from 3 to 30 feet, with morning topwater action being particularly exciting during warmer months. Successful techniques include using Texas-rigged worms, jerkbaits, crankbaits in white patterns, and topwater lures like Whopper Ploppers or Zara Spooks.
Other Fish Species to Target
Beyond bass, the reservoir hosts impressive populations of bluegill, redear sunfish, and notably blue catfish. The state record 113-pound blue catfish was caught here just weeks before the reservoir’s closure in 2008. The underwater structure created by the dam raising project provides excellent habitat, with submerged brush extending to depths of 80-100 feet serving as natural highways for fish movement.
Fishing Regulations and Permits
Fishing permits are required and can be purchased through Ticketmaster or at the entry gate. Daily limits on the number of fishing passes are in place to ensure quality experiences. Monday is designated exclusively for fishing, making it an ideal day for serious anglers seeking less boat traffic and disturbance. The reservoir maintains specific regulations regarding catch limits, fishing methods, and seasonal restrictions to protect the fishery’s health and sustainability.
For more information on the current rules and regulations at San Vicente Reservoir, please visit their informative website at SanDiego.gov/reservoirs-lakes/sanvicente-reservoir.
Water Recreation Activities Beyond Fishing
Water enthusiasts will find San Vicente Reservoir to be an exciting playground with numerous activities to enjoy. The reservoir offers a complete range of water recreation activities beyond fishing, making it a versatile destination for all water sports enthusiasts.
Boating and Launch Information
The modern marina at San Vicente Reservoir features a state-of-the-art six-lane boat launch ramp designed to accommodate high traffic while minimizing wait times during peak periods. Boating permits are required and can be purchased in advance through Ticketmaster or at the entry gate, with a daily cap on boat launches to prevent overcrowding and ensure safety.
The Water Authority has built a new marina with an expanded launching area for boats, several shade structures, bathrooms, picnic benches, barbecues, and a short walking trail, enhancing the overall boating experience.
Water Skiing and Wakeboarding Areas
Water skiing enthusiasts will appreciate the dedicated slalom course in the Special Use area, professionally set up to competition standards. Wakeboarding is accommodated with a separate course adjacent to the water skiing area, providing ideal conditions for riders of all skill levels.
John Opsal of El Cajon was one of the first people out on the water, invited by the city to set up the reservoir’s slalom course for water skiers. He noted that there is also a wakeboard course next to the slalom area, catering to different preferences.
Kayaking and Paddle Sports
For those who prefer human-powered watercraft, kayaking and paddle sports offer a peaceful way to explore the reservoir’s numerous coves and shorelines. Rental options are available through Rocky Mountain Recreation Company at the marina, including kayaks, pontoon boats, and motor boats for those who don’t bring their own equipment.
The reservoir’s increased size after the dam raising project has created miles of new shoreline to explore, with unique geological features and scenic vistas only accessible by water.
Planning Your Perfect Day at San Vicente Reservoir
To make the most of your day at San Vicente Reservoir, start by planning ahead. The reservoir, located at 12375 Moreno Ave in Lakeside, is approximately 25 miles northeast of downtown San Diego, making it an ideal day-trip destination.
Securing Permits in Advance is crucial. Permits are available through Ticketmaster, and it’s recommended to purchase them early as the daily passes (110 boat and 50 shore passes) tend to sell out quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. The current permit fees are $8 for fishing and $7 for boat launches, plus processing fees, representing excellent value compared to other recreational options in Southern California.
The reservoir is generally open from sunrise to sunset, Thursday through Monday. Mondays are reserved for fishing only, while water skiing and wakeboarding are permitted Thursday through Sunday. It’s essential to plan your visit according to these operating hours and activity restrictions.
Arriving Early is advisable, especially during peak season, as the parking lot accommodating 300 vehicles, including those with boat trailers, frequently reaches capacity by mid-morning. Don’t forget to pack essentials for a full day outdoors, including sun protection, plenty of water, snacks or picnic supplies, and appropriate clothing for changing weather conditions.
The reservoir offers various amenities, including picnic areas with benches and BBQ grills, clean restroom facilities, and shade structures for comfort during your visit. Consider visiting on weekdays for a more peaceful experience with less competition for fishing spots and water recreation areas.
The increased size of the reservoir following the dam raising project means there’s ample space to find your own secluded cove or fishing spot away from crowds. However, remember that San Vicente Reservoir is primarily a drinking water reservoir, so certain restrictions apply to protect water quality, including no swimming, personal watercraft (jet skis), or overnight camping.
By planning ahead, being mindful of the rules, and taking advantage of the reservoir’s amenities, you can have a fantastic day at San Vicente Reservoir. Whether you’re interested in fishing, boating, or simply enjoying the scenery, the reservoir has something for everyone.
