Sutherland Reservoir, CA

Sutherland Reservoir is located approximately 45 miles northeast of San Diego. When full, the reservoir has 556.8 surface acres, a maximum water depth of 145 feet, and 5.25 shoreline miles. Sutherland Reservoir has a water storage capacity of 29,508 acre feet. Water levels are monitored weekly.

Sutherland offers fishing for Florida-strain largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, red ear sunfish, channel catfish, blue catfish, bullhead, and carp. Minimum size limit for bass is 12 inches. Standard daily bag limits are five bass, five catfish and 25 crappie, with no limit on other species. Anglers 16 years of age or older must have a California state fishing license. State fishing licenses are not available at Sutherland. Fish catch information is updated weekly.

In addition to fishing from boats, patrons can use float tubes, waders, or simply fish from shore. Use of float tubes is restricted to within 150 feet or less from shore. Float tubers must wear chest waders and have a Coast Guard approved personal flotation device readily available at all times, and have 144 square inches of international orange visible at least 12 inches above the water line. They must also possess a horn or whistle to warn approaching craft. Any float tube that uses oars or has a motor must purchase a private boat use permit. Dogs are not allowed on any boats.

All private boats launching at Sutherland will be inspected for quagga mussels. Boats must be clean and dry or they will not be permitted to launch. Please review inspection procedures (PDF).