Sweetwater Reservoir Shoreline Fishing

In order to focus all efforts on our mission to provide safe, reliable water during the national emergency due to coronavirus (COVID-19), Sweetwater Authority’s fishing programs at Loveland and Sweetwater Reservoirs will be closed at until further notice.

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

Only shoreline fishing is allowed along a 2.5-mile stretch on the south side of Sweetwater Reservoir. Fishing access is open Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays. Times are adjusted seasonally.

Hours

October through February
7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

March through September
7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sweetwater Reservoir fishing is open Saturday, Sunday and Monday, and is closed for the following major holidays:

• New Year's Day
• Memorial Day
• July 4
• Labor Day
• Thanksgiving
• The day after Thanksgiving
• Christmas Eve
• Christmas

Daily Fees

• $5 per adult
• $2 per child under 16 (must be with an adult)
• $3 per car for non-fishing visitors

Cash only, no change or checks. The pay station is located next to the parking lot kiosk. Anglers must comply with California Fish and Game regulations for licensing and catch limits, as well as rules posted at the site. Facilities include parking, portable rest rooms and trash facilities. Access to the reservoir is via San Miguel Road in Bonita, near Sweetwater Summit Park, which is owned and operated by the County of San Diego. Adult supervision is required for children under 16.

Note: fishing fees are in effect

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.