
Whiskeytown Lake
Whiskeytown Lake is a popular recreational destination in Shasta County, California, situated approximately 8 miles west of Redding. The lake covers an area of 3,456 acres and has a capacity of 241,100 acre-feet, which is formed by Whiskeytown Dam on Clear Creek. The lake is part of the Whiskeytown Unit of the Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area, which offers many opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, such as boating, swimming, fishing, and hiking. Whiskeytown Lake is surrounded by beautiful mountainous terrain and lush forests, making it an ideal location for hiking and nature watching. The lake is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, deer, and bald eagles. The Whiskeytown National Recreation Area offers several hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to strenuous hikes. The James K. Carr Trail is a popular option, which provides stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Boating is another popular activity at Whiskeytown Lake, with several boat ramps available for public use. Visitors can enjoy waterskiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, and fishing. The lake is well-known for its excellent fishing, and anglers can expect to catch a variety of fish, including bass, trout, and salmon. Whiskeytown Lake is also home to many picnic areas and campgrounds, making it an ideal location for family outings and overnight stays. The Brandy Creek Beach offers a sandy shoreline and clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The lake's crystal-clear waters are also ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling, allowing visitors to explore the underwater world and its unique aquatic life. Overall, Whiskeytown Lake is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Redding area, offering something for everyone, from hiking and boating to fishing and swimming. With its breathtaking natural scenery, diverse wildlife, and endless recreational opportunities, Whiskeytown Lake is a perfect place to relax, unwind, and connect with nature.
Read more
Whiskeytown Lake
Whiskeytown Lake is a popular recreational destination in Shasta County, California, situated approximately 8 miles west of Redding. The lake covers an area of 3,456 acres and has a capacity of 241,100 acre-feet, which is formed by Whiskeytown Dam on Clear Creek. The lake is part of the Whiskeytown Unit of the Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area, which offers many opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, such as boating, swimming, fishing, and hiking. Whiskeytown Lake is surrounded by beautiful mountainous terrain and lush forests, making it an ideal location for hiking and nature watching. The lake is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, deer, and bald eagles. The Whiskeytown National Recreation Area offers several hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to strenuous hikes. The James K. Carr Trail is a popular option, which provides stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Boating is another popular activity at Whiskeytown Lake, with several boat ramps available for public use. Visitors can enjoy waterskiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, and fishing. The lake is well-known for its excellent fishing, and anglers can expect to catch a variety of fish, including bass, trout, and salmon. Whiskeytown Lake is also home to many picnic areas and campgrounds, making it an ideal location for family outings and overnight stays. The Brandy Creek Beach offers a sandy shoreline and clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The lake's crystal-clear waters are also ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling, allowing visitors to explore the underwater world and its unique aquatic life. Overall, Whiskeytown Lake is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Redding area, offering something for everyone, from hiking and boating to fishing and swimming. With its breathtaking natural scenery, diverse wildlife, and endless recreational opportunities, Whiskeytown Lake is a perfect place to relax, unwind, and connect with nature.
Read more detailsCurrent Conditions
Water Temperature
Current water temperature for Whiskeytown Lake is 63°F.
Current Snapshot
Forecast: Wednesday, Apr 30
Clear
Hourly Insights
Temperature
Precipitation
Wind
Sun, Moon & UV
Solunar Fishing Forecast
Todays action is rated a 2 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)
10:41 PM - 1:11 AM
7:00 AM - 7:00 AM
2:32 PM - 4:02 PM
7:00 AM - 7:00 AM
Outlook for Wednesday at Whiskeytown Lake
Expect temperatures ranging from 53°F to 82°F. Skies look mostly clear with little chance of precipitation. Winds will be averaging 4 mph, with potential gusts reaching up to 12 mph. The maximum UV index will be 8 (Very High), so plan sun protection accordingly. For anglers, today's fishing action is rated 2/5 (Todays action is rated a 2 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)). Look for the best bite times during the major periods around 10:41 PM and 7:00 AM, or try the minor windows near 2:32 PM and 7:00 AM for potential early morning or evening action. Check back for the latest conditions and forecasts for Whiskeytown Lake.
Lake Map Views

Try Premium Features
Find the fishing sweet spots! See detailed temperature readings throughout your lake.
No credit card required for preview
Lake Information
Common Fish Species
Nearby Lakes
Water Temperature History
Trends for Whiskeytown Lake
Current Temp
Latest recorded surface temperature.
Lowest in Period
45°F
On Dec 1
Coldest point in the Last 12 Months.
Average in Period
58°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 (82°F).
- Coolest avg: February (47°F).
- Rapid warming often occurs: April → May (+12°F).
- Sharpest cooling trend: September → October (-13°F).
Weather Forecast
Wind speed and pressure trends
Hourly Wind Forecast
Wind Direction
278°
Pressure
1016 mb
Cloud Cover
30%
Visibility
27 miles
Daily Pressure Forecast


Frequently Asked Questions About Whiskeytown Lake
Get accurate, up-to-date information about conditions at Whiskeytown Lake.