Santee Lakes, located in Santee, California, is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. With its seven lakes stocked with various species of fish, anglers can enjoy a day or night of fishing in a scenic and well-maintained park setting. However, before heading out to fish, it’s important to understand the fishing fees and rates at Santee Lakes for 2024.
Fishing Permit Fees
To fish at Santee Lakes, anglers must purchase a daily fishing permit, which can be obtained from the General Store or Park Office. The permit fees for 2024 are as follows:
Adult Day Permit (ages 16 and older): $10
Senior Permit (ages 60 and older): $6
Junior Permit (ages 15 and under): $6
Adult Night Permit (registered campers only): $6
One child aged 6 and under may fish for free when accompanied by a paid adult. An extra pole stamp, which allows anglers to use a maximum of two poles, can be purchased for an additional $4 per day.
It’s important to note that a California State Fishing License is not required at Santee Lakes. However, anglers must comply with the park’s fishing regulations and creel limits.
Creel Limits and Fishing Regulations
Santee Lakes has specific creel limits and fishing regulations in place to ensure the health and sustainability of its fish populations. The creel limit for all fish, except bass, is a combined total of 5 fish per person per day. Bass are catch-and-release only.
The use of certain types of bait is prohibited, including corn, minnows, frogs, goldfish, and other game fish. Attractants and chum are also not permitted.
Anglers who fail to comply with the fishing regulations will face a $150 non-compliance fee, plus a per-pound fee for fish over the creel limit.
Stocking Dates and Fish Species
Santee Lakes is stocked with various species of fish throughout the year. In 2024, the park will be stocked with 13,000 pounds of trout from November to March and 24,000 pounds of catfish from March to October.
The stocking dates for trout in 2024 are as follows:
Opening Weekend: November 2nd and 3rd
November 15 and 29
December 13 and 27
January 10 and 24
February 7, 14, and 21
March 7
The exact stocking dates and times are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check the Santee Lakes website or contact the park for the most up-to-date information.
Santee Lakes is home to a variety of fish species, including:
Channel Catfish
Rainbow Trout (winter only)
Largemouth Bass
Bluegill
Carp
The lakes range in depth from 5 to 12 feet, providing a variety of habitats for these fish species.
Night Fishing
Santee Lakes offers night fishing opportunities for registered campers only. Night fishing is limited to Lakes 6 and 7 between 5 pm and 11 pm. The adult night permit fee is $6, and the junior night permit fee is also $6.
Anglers participating in night fishing must bring their own lanterns and follow all park rules and regulations.
Park Hours and Amenities
Santee Lakes is open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season:
Friday through Sunday: 6:00 am to Sunset
Monday through Thursday: 8:00 am to Sunset
The park offers a variety of amenities for visitors, including:
300 campsites and 10 cabins (3 floating on the lake)
Rental boats and kayaks
Hiking trails
A sprayground (open seasonally)
A general store and park office (open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm)
Visitors can also reserve picnic areas for special events or gatherings.
Fishing at Santee Lakes is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, relax, and potentially catch some tasty fish. By understanding the fishing fees, regulations, and stocking dates, anglers can plan their trips accordingly and have a successful and enjoyable experience at the park.