Boating & Fishing

Big Bear Lake, CA, is one of Southern California’s best destinations for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a pristine alpine lake perfect for boating and fishing. Whether you’re looking to cruise the calm waters, cast a line for rainbow trout, or take your family out on a pontoon, Big Bear provides endless opportunities for fun on the water. In this guide, we’ll dive into the best places to take your boat out, the types of boats available, and the top fishing spots in Big Bear Lake.

Boating on Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake is the ideal setting for all types of boating activities, from leisurely pontoon rides to fast-paced water skiing and jet skiing. There are several marinas around the lake offering boat rentals, launching points, and services for those with their own boats.

Boulder Bay

Boulder Bay is not only one of the most beautiful and tranquil spots on Big Bear Lake, but it’s also a great place to rent kayaks and explore the lake’s stunning shoreline. Known for its large boulders, peaceful waters, and scenic beauty, Boulder Bay is a favorite for both visitors and locals alike.

• Location: Boulder Bay Park, 39148 CA-18, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

• Types of Boats: Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available, providing a more intimate way to explore the calm waters of the bay. This area is perfect for beginners or those looking for a peaceful day on the water.

• What to Expect: The serene environment makes it an excellent choice for a relaxing day of paddling. With its proximity to stunning rock formations and quieter areas of the lake, it’s an ideal location for a more tranquil boating experience.

Pleasure Point Marina

Pleasure Point Marina is a popular spot for renting a variety of boats and enjoying a day on the water.

            • Location: 603 Landlock Landing, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

            • Types of Boats: Pleasure Point offers a variety of rentals, including pontoon boats, fishing boats, and kayaks. Pontoons are a top choice for families, providing a spacious and easy-to-navigate experience, while fishing boats are great for anglers.

            • What to Expect: Pleasure Point is known for its friendly staff and wide selection of rental options. Whether you’re fishing or just exploring the lake, this marina offers everything you need.

Big Bear Marina

Big Bear Marina is another great option for boat rentals, known for its central location and excellent services.

            • Location: 500 Paine Court, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

            • Types of Boats: You can rent pontoon boats, fishing boats, and even jet skis for a more adventurous ride. They also offer water skiing and wakeboarding equipment for those looking for a thrill.

            • What to Expect: The marina is well-equipped for water sports, making it a great choice for visitors looking to engage in active boating. Their pontoons are ideal for family outings, while jet skis are perfect for speed enthusiasts.

Pine Knot Marina

Pine Knot Marina offers a wide range of boating activities and is one of the most visited marinas on the lake.

            • Location: 439 Pine Knot Ave, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

            • Types of Boats: Pine Knot rents pontoons, fishing boats, and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs). Pontoon boats are perfect for group outings, while paddleboards provide a peaceful way to explore the lake’s shoreline.

            • What to Expect: Pine Knot Marina is great for families and groups looking for a relaxing day on the lake. It also offers boat launching services for those with their own vessels.

Best Fishing Spots in Big Bear Lake

Fishing is one of the most popular activities at Big Bear Lake, with the calm waters and scenic views making it the perfect spot to cast a line. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish, including rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and catfish.

Holloway’s Marina & RV Park

Holloway’s Marina is another excellent marina offering rentals and a great place to take a boat out on Big Bear Lake.

            • Location: 398 Edgemoor Rd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

            • Types of Boats: Rentals include pontoons, fishing boats, and kayaks. The marina also features seasonal boat slips for long-term stays.

            • What to Expect: This marina offers a variety of services for boaters, including equipment rentals, dock space, and even lake tours for those who want to sit back and relax.

Boulder Bay

Located on the southwestern shore of the lake, Boulder Bay is a peaceful and scenic spot, perfect for shore fishing.

            • Best For: Shore fishing for trout and bass.

            • What to Expect: Boulder Bay offers calm waters and beautiful views, with plenty of spots to set up and cast your line from the shore. It’s one of the most popular spots for anglers seeking rainbow trout.

Stanfield Cutoff

Stanfield Cutoff is known for being a great fishing spot, especially for catching rainbow trout.

            • Best For: Trout fishing, particularly during spring and fall when the water is cooler.

            • What to Expect: This area offers easy access for both shore fishing and launching small fishing boats or kayaks. The shallow waters around the cutoff provide excellent conditions for trout fishing, especially early in the morning.

Windy Point

Windy Point is located on the lake’s north shore and is known for its abundant trout and bass fishing opportunities.

            • Best For: Bass and trout fishing from a boat.

            • What to Expect: As the name suggests, this spot can be a bit breezy, but it’s a fantastic location for boaters looking to fish in deeper waters. Bass fishing here is especially good in the summer months.

East Ramp

The East Boat Ramp is a prime spot for those looking to fish from a boat.

            • Best For: Deep-water fishing from a boat, targeting trout and catfish.

            • What to Expect: The East Ramp provides access to some of the deepest parts of Big Bear Lake, where trout and catfish are often found. It’s a quieter area, making it perfect for serious anglers.

Types of Fish in Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake is home to several fish species that make it a haven for anglers:

            • Rainbow Trout: The most commonly caught fish, particularly in spring and fall. Big Bear Lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout.

            • Largemouth Bass: Popular in the summer months, especially near the shallow areas of the lake.

            • Catfish: Best caught at night during the warmer months, often near deeper waters.

            • Bluegill & Crappie: Found closer to shore, making them great for beginners and families.

Fishing Licenses and Regulations

Before heading out to fish, be sure to secure the appropriate fishing license. California requires a state fishing license for anyone over the age of 16. Licenses can be purchased at local shops around Big Bear or online via the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Big Bear is an ideal destination for both boating and fishing, offering a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. With multiple marinas providing boat rentals and services, as well as numerous fishing spots that cater to both shore and boat anglers, Big Bear Lake promises an unforgettable day on the water. Whether you’re casting your line for rainbow trout at Boulder Bay or taking a pontoon out for a scenic cruise, Big Bear has everything you need for an exciting day in nature.