Loveland Reservoir

In order to focus all efforts and staff resources on our mission to provide safe, reliable water as we adjust operations in response to coronavirus (COVID-19), Sweetwater Authority’s fishing programs at Loveland and Sweetwater Reservoirs will remain closed until further notice.

The Authority is committed to a thoughtful and strategic reopening of the program that prioritizes the health and safety of the public. We appreciate your understanding.

Violators will be prosecuted for trespassing and/or poaching under penal codes 554, 555, and FGC 2000 and 2002.

Please note that fishing programs are subject to closure at any time due to elevated fire conditions, inclement weather or any other safety concerns.


To protect and preserve water quality and natural habitat, Sweetwater Authority and the USDA Forest Service established a unique partnership to provide public fishing access along a portion of the shoreline. In exchange for parcel of land near the reservoir, previously owned by the U.S. Government, Sweetwater Authority provided land near Descanso, California to the National Forest System. This exchange increases natural habitat and forest lands available to San Diego County and Southern California residents and wildlife.

Fishing activities at Loveland Reservoir are designed to protect public health and benefit the community. Activities will be monitored by Sweetwater Authority.

Please stay in designated areas and respect the sensitive environment present at Loveland Reservoir. 

Fishing access is limited to posted areas.

Current Hours Open to the Public


October through February
6 a.m. to 5 p.m.

March through September
6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Holidays


Loveland Reservoir fishing is open daily, and is closed during the following major holidays:
  • New Year's Day
  • Memorial Day
  • July 4
  • Labor Day
  • Thanksgiving
  • The day after Thanksgiving
  • Christmas Eve
  • Christmas
All County, State and Federal regulations will be enforced.
 

Rules


  • Adult supervision is required for children under 16
  • No Alcoholic Beverages
  • No Fires or Smoking
  • No Glass Bottles or Containers
  • No Dogs, Horses, Pets or Service Animals (per health code)
  • No Boats, Floats and Watercraft
  • No Swimming and Wading
  • No Firearms, Bows or Crossbows
  • No Fish Cleaning
  • No Bowfishing

Quagga Mussel Prevention


No live freshwater bait, including shiners, crawdads, etc.

To prevent the further spread of Quagga Mussels, Sweetwater Authority has banned the use of live bait from freshwater sources at Loveland and Sweetwater Reservoirs. The ban does not apply to mealworms, redworms, crickets, etc.

California State Fishing Licenses Required


  • Bass: 5 (12-inch minimum length)
  • Catfish: 5
  • Bluegill: 25
  • Red Eared Sunfish: 25
  • Crappie: 25
  • Bluegill, Sunfish and Crappie combined bag limit: 25