Santa Margarita Lake has 1,100 surface acres and 22 miles of shoreline at capacity. It rests at an elevation of 1,300 feet and was formed with the construction of the Salinas Dam, backing up the Salinas River. The lake is open year round except for Christmas Day. Entrance fee is $5 per vehicle. Tent, RV and group camping is available and there is a nice picnic area for day use. No body-contact with the water is allowed.

Our bait recommendations

Here's the baits that our Pros love for this lake.