History

Fishing

Lake Records

Facilities

Hours and Fees

Directions

Links

Upper Otay was opened to the public in April 1996. Prior to that it had been closed to all fishing since it was established as a natural hatchery for the propagation and introduction of Florida-strain largemouth bass in 1959. Remarkably, 21 of the 25 largest bass in history were the progeny of the fingerlings used in that experiment. When full Upper Otay Reservoir offers 20 surface acres.

Upper Otay offers fishing for Florida-strain largemouth bass, bluegill, bullhead and trout planted in January. Fishing is offered on a catch and release (zero kill) basis, with barbless artificial lures only for all species of fish. Check with the Department of Fish Game at (858) 467-4201 for regulations on bait and gear.

(Comming soon!)

There are no barbecues or picnic tables at Upper Otay. Patrons can bring self-contained barbecues for use in designated areas only. No ground fires or glass containers are allowed. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times and at least 50 feet away from the water.

There are no concession services at Upper Otay. Daily permits may be purchased at the Lower Otay Concession building or Boat Dock, which is nearby.

There is no camping allowed at Upper Otay. The nearest camping is Thousand Trails (2 miles away) or Sweetwater and Bonita County Parks (5 miles away). For reservations at County Parks call (619) 565-3600.

The reservoir's operating schedule is Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday, and certain holidays from sunrise to sunset, from February through September. The lake opens for the 2003 season at sunrise on Wednesday, February 5, 2003.

Open for waterfowl hunting on Wednesdays and Saturdays during the season concurrent with the operation of Lower Otay for hunting. Reservations are accepted beginning October 5, 2002, at San Vicente facility in Lakeside.

Upper Otay Reservoir is located approximately 8 miles east of Chula Vista. From Interstate 805, exit on Telegraph Canyon Road going east, turn south on Wueste Road.

San Diego county, Upper Otay Reservoir page

San Diego county, weekly fish report