Damn Good Clear Lake Fishing Charters

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Clear Lake fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

Choose a Date

Damn Good Guides

Experts Available 24/7

100% Weather Guarantee

Recently Booked Fishing Charters In Clear Lake

Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Spanish Flat

Clear Lake Ultimate Bass Fishing

NEW
1 - 3 People From $460
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Seabrook

Therapeutic Fishing

NEW
20 ft 1 - 2 People From $360

Top Species for Fishing in Clear Lake

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in Clear Lake

What are the best fishing charters in Clear Lake?

The best fishing charters in Clear Lake are:

Why should I book a fishing charter in Clear Lake with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 2 trips in Clear Lake, and the most popular trips in the area are Therapeutic Fishing guided by Kevin and Clear Lake Ultimate Bass Fishing guided by Carl.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly charters / fishing lessons in Clear Lake? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in Clear Lake.

What types of fishing charters are common in Clear Lake?

Inshore fishing is the most popular type of fishing in Clear Lake as well as lake fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in Clear Lake are: 1. black drum, 2. redfish, 3. sheepshead, 4. speckled trout, and 5. largemouth bass.

The most common fishing techniques in Clear Lake are bottom fishing, live bait fishing, and artificial lure fishing but light tackle fishing is popular as well.

How much do Clear Lake fishing charters cost?

Prices in Clear Lake can range anywhere from about $420 to $866, but the average price for a half day trip in Clear Lake is $480. The average price for a full day trip in Clear Lake is $830.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for fishing in Clear Lake?

The most popular season for fishing in Clear Lake is summer, and most anglers book their trips 0 days in advance.

Do I need a Clear Lake fishing license and what are the bag limits in Clear Lake?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Clear Lake, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Clear Lake. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Clear Lake.

What is fishing in Clear Lake about?

Fishing in Clear Lake, nestled in Northern California's picturesque Lake County, offers anglers a serene and bountiful experience surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Renowned as one of the top bass fishing destinations in the United States, Clear Lake boasts a thriving population of largemouth bass, drawing enthusiasts from near and far. Anglers can explore the lake's expansive waters, dotted with scenic coves, submerged structures, and abundant vegetation, providing ample opportunities to hook into trophy-sized bass. Whether casting from the shore, navigating the lake by boat, or fishing from a kayak, Clear Lake offers a variety of angling experiences for fishermen of all levels.

In addition to bass fishing, Clear Lake is home to a diverse range of fish species, making it a well-rounded destination for anglers seeking a variety of fishing opportunities. Crappie, bluegill, and catfish are among the other popular species found in the lake, providing additional options for anglers looking to diversify their catches. From targeting crappie in the shallows to drifting for catfish along the lake's deeper channels, Clear Lake offers a wealth of angling possibilities throughout the year. Whether fishing for bass or exploring the lake's other offerings, anglers can enjoy the tranquility and natural splendor that Clear Lake has to offer.

The lake's favorable climate and relatively mild winters make it a year-round fishing destination, with each season offering its own unique opportunities and challenges. Spring and fall are typically considered prime fishing seasons, as warming water temperatures and changing weather patterns trigger increased fish activity and feeding behavior. Summer brings warmer water temperatures, which can push bass and other species into deeper waters, while winter offers the chance to target cold-water species such as catfish in the lake's deeper channels. With its scenic beauty and abundant fish populations, Clear Lake provides anglers with an unforgettable fishing experience amidst the natural wonders of Northern California.

What are the most popular months to fish in Clear Lake?

Fishing seasons in Clear Lake, California, are defined by the ebb and flow of the region's climate and the behavior of its diverse fish population. Spring heralds the beginning of the prime fishing season, as warming temperatures trigger increased activity among fish species like largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill. Anglers flock to the lake's shores and waters, taking advantage of the spawning season and the abundance of prey that attracts hungry fish. Spring offers optimal conditions for bass fishing, with bass moving into shallow waters to spawn and feed, presenting anglers with ample opportunities to hook into trophy-sized catches.

As summer arrives, Clear Lake transitions into a different phase of the fishing season, characterized by warmer water temperatures and changes in fish behavior. Largemouth bass, in particular, may retreat to deeper waters in search of cooler temperatures and abundant forage, requiring anglers to adjust their fishing techniques accordingly. However, summer still offers productive fishing opportunities, with anglers targeting bass, crappie, and other species around submerged structures, weed beds, and drop-offs. Additionally, summer nights provide a unique opportunity for catfish angling, as these nocturnal predators become more active in the cooler evening hours.

Fall marks another peak fishing season in Clear Lake, as cooling temperatures and shorter days trigger a resurgence of fish activity. Largemouth bass once again become more aggressive as they feed voraciously in preparation for the approaching winter months. Anglers can enjoy excellent bass fishing throughout the lake, with fish congregating around shallow flats, rocky points, and weed beds. Fall also offers opportunities to target other species such as crappie and bluegill, which remain active in the lake's shallows. With its diverse fishing opportunities and scenic beauty, Clear Lake provides anglers with a rewarding fishing experience throughout the changing seasons.

What types of fishing are popular in Clear Lake?

Fishing in Clear Lake, California, offers a variety of options to suit different preferences and skill levels, making it a beloved destination for anglers of all kinds. One popular method is shore fishing, where anglers can cast their lines from the lake's many accessible shorelines, docks, and piers. Shore fishing provides a convenient and budget-friendly way to enjoy the sport, with opportunities to target a variety of species such as largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. Whether casting from the comfort of a lakeside picnic area or exploring secluded coves, shore anglers in Clear Lake can enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings while waiting for the next bite.

Boat fishing is another favored option for anglers seeking to explore the expansive waters of Clear Lake and access prime fishing spots that may be unreachable from shore. Anglers can launch their boats from one of the lake's many public boat ramps or marinas, allowing them to navigate the lake's diverse habitats and target a wide range of fish species. Bass fishing enthusiasts, in particular, favor boat fishing for its versatility, enabling them to cover large areas of water and experiment with different fishing techniques such as trolling, casting, and jigging. Whether fishing solo or with friends and family, boat fishing in Clear Lake offers endless possibilities for adventure and discovery on the water.

Kayak fishing has emerged as a popular and exciting way to experience Clear Lake's abundant fishing opportunities while immersing oneself in nature. Anglers can paddle along the lake's scenic shorelines, weaving through coves and exploring hidden fishing spots that are inaccessible to larger boats. Kayaks provide anglers with a stealthy and maneuverable platform for targeting bass, crappie, and other species in shallow waters, where these fish often seek refuge among submerged vegetation and structure. Kayak fishing allows anglers to enjoy a peaceful and intimate connection with the lake's natural beauty while casting lines and reeling in their next big catch.

What species are popular in Clear Lake?

Clear Lake, nestled in the heart of Northern California, offers anglers a rich diversity of fish species to target throughout the year. Largemouth bass reigns as the crown jewel of Clear Lake's fishery, drawing anglers from far and wide with its impressive size and fighting spirit. This renowned bass fishery consistently produces trophy-sized bass, making it a paradise for bass anglers seeking to hook into their personal best. Whether casting along the lake's abundant weed beds, submerged structures, or rocky points, anglers can enjoy the thrill of pursuing these prized gamefish against the backdrop of Clear Lake's scenic beauty.

In addition to bass, Clear Lake boasts a variety of other fish species that provide exciting angling opportunities. Crappie, known for their delicious taste and feisty fights, are abundant in the lake's shallow waters and can be targeted year-round, particularly around submerged vegetation and docks. Bluegill, sunfish, and other panfish species also populate Clear Lake, offering fun and rewarding fishing experiences for anglers of all ages. Additionally, catfish, including channel catfish and bullheads, are plentiful in the lake's deeper waters and can be targeted using a variety of techniques such as bottom fishing with cut bait or stink bait.

Clear Lake's diverse fishery and favorable climate make it a prime destination for anglers seeking a wide range of fishing experiences. Whether pursuing trophy bass, panfish, or catfish, anglers can enjoy the tranquility and natural splendor of Clear Lake while casting lines and reeling in their next big catch. With its abundance of fish species and scenic beauty, Clear Lake offers something for every angler, making it a beloved fishing destination in Northern California.

Does Clear Lake have good fishing?

Clear Lake, located in Northern California, is renowned as one of the best fishing spots in the state. This large natural lake, the biggest in California, is particularly famous for its bass fishing. Anglers from all over flock to Clear Lake for the chance to catch trophy-sized largemouth bass, and the lake consistently produces impressive catches, making it a top destination for bass tournaments. Besides bass, Clear Lake also hosts healthy populations of catfish, crappie, and bluegill, providing a diverse fishing experience.

The accessibility and amenities around Clear Lake further enhance its reputation as a prime fishing destination. There are numerous public access points, boat ramps, and marinas scattered around the lake, making it easy for anglers to get on the water. Additionally, the surrounding area offers plenty of options for accommodation, from campgrounds and RV parks to hotels and vacation rentals. This makes Clear Lake an excellent choice for both day trips and extended fishing vacations.

Moreover, the scenic beauty and pleasant climate of Clear Lake add to the overall fishing experience. The lake is surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, creating a picturesque backdrop for a day of fishing. The mild weather throughout much of the year means that anglers can enjoy comfortable fishing conditions, whether they are casting from a boat or the shore. With its abundant fish populations, convenient facilities, and beautiful setting, Clear Lake is undoubtedly a great spot for both serious and recreational anglers.

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

Our guides are Damn Good Guides, which means they’re vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick each and every one of them, and our network spans all across the US and beyond.

The proof is in the pudding, and we’re incredibly proud of our 4.9 / 5 average review score. Hit the button below to see more trip options:

See All Trips in Clear Lake