California · Fishing
Fishing in Little Grass Valley, California
Little Grass Valley Reservoir sits in the Plumas National Forest at around 5,060 feet in the northern Sierra Nevada, and the fishing here is straightforward lake fishing without a lot of ceremony.
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View on mapFishing · 3 spots
Little Grass Valley Reservoir sits in the Plumas National Forest at around 5,060 feet in the northern Sierra Nevada, and the fishing here is straightforward lake fishing without a lot of ceremony. The three access points in our listings — Running Deer Campground, Red Feather California, and Horse Campground — each put you on the water in different spots around the reservoir, which gives you options depending on where fish are holding on a given day. Horse Campground is listed under surf fishing, which in a freshwater lake context typically means fishing from the shoreline rather than a boat, so it's worth noting if you're coming without a watercraft. The reservoir is stocked by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and rainbow trout are the primary draw, though bass and other warmwater species can show up depending on the season. Access roads into the area can be rough and are sometimes closed into late spring depending on snowpack, so checking current conditions before you drive up from the valley is not optional — it's just part of planning a trip here.
Frequently asked questions
Which campground gives the best fishing access at Little Grass Valley Reservoir?
Running Deer Campground and Red Feather California are both listed for lake fishing and put you close to the water with room to set up. Horse Campground is listed under surf fishing, meaning shore-based casting, so it's a solid pick if you're fishing without a boat and want to work the bank.
Do I need a boat to fish Little Grass Valley Reservoir?
No. Shore fishing is viable at multiple access points, including Horse Campground, which is specifically listed for that style of fishing. A boat or kayak gives you more flexibility to follow fish around the reservoir, but bank anglers do fine here, especially early in the season when trout are holding in shallower water.
What time of year is best for fishing at Little Grass Valley?
Late spring through early summer tends to be the most productive window after the access roads clear and water temperatures are still cool. Fall can also be good as temperatures drop again. Midsummer fishing slows during the warmest part of the day, so early morning and evening sessions are worth prioritizing.
What do I need to know about regulations and licenses before I go?
A valid California fishing license is required for anyone 16 or older. The reservoir falls under standard California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations, but specific rules around gear type, bag limits, or closures can change seasonally, so check the current CDFW regulations for Plumas County before your trip rather than relying on last year's rules.
Are the roads to these campgrounds accessible year-round?
No. Little Grass Valley sits above 5,000 feet, and the access roads into the Plumas National Forest can remain closed or gated well into May or even June in heavy snow years. Check current road conditions through the Plumas National Forest ranger district or Caltrans before you head up, especially if you're planning a trip before Memorial Day.
