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1. Who operates the fishing program at Sweetwater Reservoir?

Sweetwater Authority, a public agency that provides drinking water residents of Chula Vista, National City and Bonita, owns and operates Sweetwater Reservoir and the fishing prorgram. California’s Department of Fish and Game inspects the facility to assure anglers have fishing licenses and follow state rules and regulations.

2. When can I fish at Sweetwater Reservoir?

For current fishing program hours, click here.

3. Why allow fishing on a drinking water reservoir?

When residents voted for public ownership of the water system in the 1970s, voters asked for public fishing. Sweetwater Authority's Governing Board, in seeking a balance between human and environmental needs, supports the fishing program as a service to the entire region.

4. Will the Sweetwater Reservoir fishing program be expanded?

It is unlikely that the fishing program will be expanded. Water from Sweetwater Reservoir is treated at the Perdue Plant near the shoreline, and it is unlikely that California’s Department of Health Services would ever approve boats or potential body contact activities such as canoeing, kayaking, swimming, water skiing, wading, or float tubes on the reservoir.

5. Will I ever be able to fish on the north shore of the Sweetwater Reservoir?

No. The water stored in Sweetwater Reservoir and the wildlife that live there must be carefully protected. Fishing area limits are posted on the south shore.

6. What type of concessions will be available at the site?

None. Visitors must bring their own food, drink, bait and tackle, including drinking water. Portable restrooms and trashcans are provided. Please note that there is limited shade on site.

7. Will the lake be stocked with trout and other fish species?

There are no plans to stock the lake. We expect healthy populations of bass, catfish,
bullhead, bluegill, perch, rock bass, and carp. Catch and release practices are preferred to avoid over-fishing.

8. Are boats allowed at Sweetwater Reservoir or Loveland Reservoir?

No. Motor boats could create problems with fuel contamination or non-native plant or animal species. Non-motorized watercraft might cause body contact with the reservoir, which is prohibited.

9. What other recreation is allowed?

Trails are provided for walks, photography, and bird watching. Bicycles, horses and pets are allowed on other designated trails (outside of the fishing facility).

10. Is camping allowed?

No. There is no overnight parking and no camping at the Sweetwater Reservoir Fishing Facility. Camping is available at the County’s Sweetwater Summit Park, west of the Facility. The address is
3218 Summit Meadow Road
Bonita, CA 91902

The information number is (619) 472-7572.

11. How many people are allowed to fish each day at Sweetwater Reservoir?

There are 155 parking spaces at the Sweetwater Reservoir Fishing Facility. If the lot is full, visitors may pay a day use fee to park at Sweetwater Summit Campground and hike in. Caretakers are authorized to refuse further admissions as needed.

12. Is bowfishing allowed?

No. The Governing Board has decided against this form of fishing.