Legg Lake, part of the Whittier Narrows Recreation Area in South El Monte, California, is a popular fishing spot for anglers of all ages. With its three interconnected lakes spanning 28 acres and surrounded by a 2.2-mile loop trail, Legg Lake offers a diverse array of fish species and a picturesque setting for a day of fishing.
Fishing License Requirements at Legg Lake
The rules regarding fishing licenses at Legg Lake are straightforward:
Anglers under the age of 16 do not need a fishing license to fish at Legg Lake.
For anglers 16 years of age and older, a California state fishing license is required to legally fish at Legg Lake and all other waters in the state.
It’s important to note that the California Department of Fish and Wildlife rules apply at Legg Lake, and all anglers must adhere to the regulations set forth by the state.
Legg Lake Fishing Fees and Hours
In addition to the fishing license requirements, anglers should be aware of the following fees and hours at Legg Lake:
Parking fees: $3 per vehicle entry Monday – Friday; $5 Saturday – Sunday; Higher for some holidays and events
Spring-Summer hours: Sun – Sat: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Fall-Winter hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
It’s important to check the Whittier Narrows Recreation Area website for any updates or changes to the park rules, fees, and hours before planning a fishing trip to Legg Lake.
Fish Species at Legg Lake
Legg Lake is stocked with a variety of fish species throughout the year, making it an attractive destination for anglers seeking diverse catches:
Rainbow Trout: Stocked during the winter months
Catfish: Stocked during the summer months
Largemouth Bass: Resident species with bass up to 10 pounds reported
Smallmouth Bass: Another resident species
Tilapia, Bluegill, Crappie, and Carp: Also found in the lake
Trout fishing is best for a week or two immediately after stocking, so anglers should keep an eye on the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s stocking reports to time their visits accordingly.
Fishing Methods and Techniques
Legg Lake offers a variety of fishing methods and techniques for anglers to try:
Bait fishing: Floating baits like Berkley PowerBait fished near the bottom or sinking baits like nightcrawlers and salmon eggs fished with a bobber are effective for trout.
Lures: Casting and retrieving spinners or spoons can be a fun way to catch trout.
Fly fishing: While challenging, fly fishing can be a rewarding way to catch even stocked trout if there is enough room to cast safely.
Bass fishing: Anglers can target largemouth bass using a variety of lures and techniques.
Regardless of the method chosen, anglers should always prioritize safety and be mindful of their surroundings when fishing at Legg Lake.
In conclusion, Legg Lake offers a convenient and diverse fishing experience for anglers in the Los Angeles area. By understanding the licensing requirements, fees, hours, and fish species available, anglers can plan a successful and enjoyable fishing trip to this urban oasis.