Lake Success - CA

Lake Success, located just east of Porterville in Tulare County, is a 2,450-acre reservoir offering one of Central California’s most consistent warmwater fisheries. Well known for its healthy largemouth bass population, this lake provides excellent springtime bass fishing when fish move into the shallows to spawn. Soft plastics, spinnerbaits, and jigs worked around submerged brush and flooded vegetation yield strong results. As summer progresses, bass retreat to deeper water and become responsive to drop-shot rigs, deep-diving crankbaits, and Carolina rigs.

Crappie fishing is also a major draw, especially during the spring and fall months. Large crappie are frequently found around submerged brush and dock pilings, and can be caught using small jigs or live minnows. Bluegill and sunfish offer easy action near weed beds and shoreline cover, especially in warmer months, making them ideal targets for families and beginners.

Channel catfish and bullhead catfish are plentiful and often caught at night with cut bait, chicken liver, or commercial stink baits. Though trout are not a focal point, the reservoir is occasionally stocked in winter, with anglers targeting them near the dam using spoons or bait rigs.

With excellent access, camping, a marina, and consistent action across multiple species, Lake Success is a reliable and rewarding fishery.