No License Required

There is no charge for fishing, and no license is required at Irvine Lake, but the California Department of Fish and Wildlife fishing regulations regarding fish limits apply.

Additionally, the following fishing regulations apply:

• • Five fish limit.
• • Bass is catch-and-release only.
• • Catfish larger than 24 inches must be released.
• • One rod per person maximum.
• • Approved baits only: worms, mackerel, dough baits, or artificial lures. No live bait allowed (except worms).

It's Like a Fish Market!

Irvine Lake is home to a wide variety of fish: bass (catch-and-release), trout, catfish, carp, bluegill, crappie and sturgeon.

Trout and Catfish are stocked on regular schedules by the Orange County Parks Department. You can find the stocking schedules here.

Forget Something?

There is a bait and tackle shop with snacks and drinks at the entrance to the lake. Restrooms are available in the parking area.

No alcohol is permitted anywhere in the park at any time.

Important Information

• Parking is $5 per vehicle.

• Dogs are not permitted in the park.

• eBikes and electric scooters are not permitted in the park.

• Irvine Lake allows shoreline fishing only. No boats, float tubes or other recreational activities are allowed.

• The East and West shores at Irvine Lake are currently closed.

• Red Flag wind warnings or other hazards may lead to park closure.

• The parking lot opens at 6:00am and access to the lake begins at 7:00am. Do not line up on Santiago Canyon Road prior. It's unsafe, and you will be subject to all applicable traffic laws.