
El Capitan Reservoir
El Capitan Reservoir, located in San Diego County, California, is a man-made reservoir with a surface area of approximately 1,562 acres. The reservoir was created in the 1930s to provide drinking water to the city of San Diego and has since become a popular destination for fishing and outdoor recreation. With its clear waters and diverse fish populations, El Capitan Reservoir offers anglers an exceptional fishing experience. Largemouth Bass is one of the most sought-after fish species in El Capitan Reservoir, and the lake is known for producing trophy-sized bass. Anglers can also catch other popular fish species such as Sunfish, Catfish, Crappie, and Carp. The reservoir's large size and varied underwater structure, such as rocky outcrops and submerged trees, provide a habitat for a diverse range of fish species. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife regularly stocks the reservoir with fish to maintain the fish populations, ensuring that anglers have a good chance of catching their limit. The best time to fish at El Capitan Reservoir is during the spring and fall when water temperatures are moderate, and fish are more active. However, the lake is open year-round for fishing, and anglers can catch fish throughout the year. In addition to fishing, El Capitan Reservoir offers a range of outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and boating. The lake has several campgrounds with facilities such as picnic areas, restrooms, and showers, providing visitors with a comfortable place to stay while enjoying the outdoors. The lake's surrounding hills and mountains offer several hiking trails with stunning views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. Boating is another popular activity at El Capitan Reservoir, and the lake has several boat ramps for launching boats. Visitors can rent boats or bring their own and enjoy a day on the water. However, it is important to note that swimming is not allowed in the lake due to safety concerns. In conclusion, El Capitan Reservoir in San Diego County, California, is a beautiful and popular recreational destination. With its clear waters, diverse fish populations, and range of outdoor activities, the lake offers visitors an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking for trophy-sized bass or a family seeking a weekend camping trip, El Capitan Reservoir is the perfect place to escape the city and connect with nature.
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El Capitan Reservoir
El Capitan Reservoir, located in San Diego County, California, is a man-made reservoir with a surface area of approximately 1,562 acres. The reservoir was created in the 1930s to provide drinking water to the city of San Diego and has since become a popular destination for fishing and outdoor recreation. With its clear waters and diverse fish populations, El Capitan Reservoir offers anglers an exceptional fishing experience. Largemouth Bass is one of the most sought-after fish species in El Capitan Reservoir, and the lake is known for producing trophy-sized bass. Anglers can also catch other popular fish species such as Sunfish, Catfish, Crappie, and Carp. The reservoir's large size and varied underwater structure, such as rocky outcrops and submerged trees, provide a habitat for a diverse range of fish species. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife regularly stocks the reservoir with fish to maintain the fish populations, ensuring that anglers have a good chance of catching their limit. The best time to fish at El Capitan Reservoir is during the spring and fall when water temperatures are moderate, and fish are more active. However, the lake is open year-round for fishing, and anglers can catch fish throughout the year. In addition to fishing, El Capitan Reservoir offers a range of outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and boating. The lake has several campgrounds with facilities such as picnic areas, restrooms, and showers, providing visitors with a comfortable place to stay while enjoying the outdoors. The lake's surrounding hills and mountains offer several hiking trails with stunning views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. Boating is another popular activity at El Capitan Reservoir, and the lake has several boat ramps for launching boats. Visitors can rent boats or bring their own and enjoy a day on the water. However, it is important to note that swimming is not allowed in the lake due to safety concerns. In conclusion, El Capitan Reservoir in San Diego County, California, is a beautiful and popular recreational destination. With its clear waters, diverse fish populations, and range of outdoor activities, the lake offers visitors an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking for trophy-sized bass or a family seeking a weekend camping trip, El Capitan Reservoir is the perfect place to escape the city and connect with nature.
Read more detailsCurrent Conditions
Water Temperature
Current water temperature for El Capitan Reservoir is 69°F.
Current Snapshot
Forecast: Saturday, May 10
MostlyClear
Hourly Insights
Temperature
Precipitation
Wind
Sun, Moon & UV
Solunar Fishing Forecast
Todays action is rated a 4 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)
7:00 AM - 7:00 AM
2:05 PM - 4:35 PM
12:39 AM - 2:09 AM
11:02 AM - 12:32 PM
Outlook for Saturday at El Capitan Reservoir
Expect temperatures ranging from 65°F to 100°F. Skies look mostly clear with little chance of precipitation. Winds will be averaging 4 mph, with potential gusts reaching up to 21 mph. The maximum UV index will be 10 (Very High), so plan sun protection accordingly. For anglers, today's fishing action is rated 4/5 (Todays action is rated a 4 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)). Look for the best bite times during the major periods around 7:00 AM and 2:05 PM, or try the minor windows near 12:39 AM and 11:02 AM for potential early morning or evening action. Check back for the latest conditions and forecasts for El Capitan Reservoir.
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Lake Information
Common Fish Species
Nearby Lakes
Water Temperature History
Trends for El Capitan Reservoir
Current Temp
Latest recorded surface temperature.
Lowest in Period
54°F
On Mar 23
Coldest point in the Last 12 Months.
Average in Period
67°F
Typical temp during the Last 12 Months.
Temperature Trend: Last 12 Months
Surface temperature over the selected period.
Key Observations (Last 12 Months)
- Warmest avg: July (87°F).
- Coolest avg: January (56°F).
- Avg temps often suitable for swimming during July.
- Rapid warming often occurs: April → May (+16°F).
- Sharpest cooling trend: September → October (-14°F).
Weather Forecast
Wind speed and pressure trends
Hourly Wind Forecast
Wind Direction
65°
Pressure
1013 mb
Cloud Cover
0%
Visibility
34 miles
Daily Pressure Forecast


Frequently Asked Questions About El Capitan Reservoir
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