Irvine Lake is open for shoreline fishing Friday through Sunday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Parking opens at 6:30 a.m. Fishing is free, and parking is $5 per vehicle with no re-entry. Boating, float tubes, swimming, camping and other water recreation are not currently permitted. Red Flag wind warnings or other hazardous conditions may lead to temporary closures.
Important: Irvine Lake Dam Project & Future Closure
Irvine Lake is currently open, but a major dam improvement project is expected to require a future closure and significant drawdown of the lake. Irvine Ranch Water District is preparing for the Santiago Creek Dam Improvement Project, with construction currently planned to begin in 2027. The lake is expected to be partially or fully dewatered for portions of the work. An exact closure date has not yet been announced, so visitors should check current OC Parks information before planning a trip. More details about the project are included below.
Irvine Lake Catfish Plants & Trout Stocking Schedule
See the trout stocking and catfish stocking schedules for exact dates. Typically Trout are stocked during the winter months and catfish are stocked during the summer months.
Irvine Lake Details
| Phone: 714-649-9111 | Email: fishing@jamesevents.com |
| Park Hours: Friday-Sunday 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. | Parking: $5 |
| Dogs: Not permitted | Reservations: Not required |
| Max Depth: 145 ft | Surface Area/Elevation: 700 Acres/1,424 ft |
Parking opens at 6:30 a.m., with access to the lake beginning at 7 a.m. Do not stop or line up along Santiago Canyon Road before parking opens.
Fishing is free and parking is $5 per vehicle. There is no re-entry, and as of July 1, 2026, OC Parks Annual Passes are no longer accepted at Irvine Lake.
Bait is sold at the Tackle Shop plus light snacks are available for purchase.
Find a list of all places to fish in Orange County.
Irvine Lake Fishing Rules & Regulations
- No fishing license required. California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) fishing regulations regarding fish limits apply.
- The following fishing regulations apply:
- 5 fish limit.
- Bass is catch-and-release only.
- Catfish larger than 24 inches must be released.
- OC Parks currently lists a two-rod-per-person maximum on its Irvine Lake visitor page. Check posted rules when you arrive, as the OC Parks FAQ has also listed a one-rod limit.
- Approved baits only (worms, mackerel, dough baits, or artificial lure). No live bait allowed, except worms.
- The following fishing regulations apply:
- Bass, catfish, carp, bluegill and crappie are among the fish found in Irvine Lake. Bass are catch-and-release only. Irvine Lake is stocked; see the current trout and catfish stocking schedule linked above for announced stocking dates.
- Shoreline fishing only. No boats, float tubes, paddleboards, kayaks, bodily contact or entry or other recreational activities available.
- Bait and light snacks are available to purchase.
- No alcohol permitted.
- No access to Irvine Ranch Open Space.
- No parking is allowed anywhere along Santiago Canyon Road. The entrance gate will not open until 7 a.m. Anyone stopped or parked along Santiago Canyon Road prior to the opening will be subject to citation.
- No camping allowed.
- No RC boats or drones allowed.
- No amplified music is allowed.
Directions & Parking at Irvine Lake
Irvine Lake Address: 4621 E. Santiago Canyon Road, Silverado, CA 92676. Use the map link below for current driving directions. Parking is $5 per vehicle, opens at 6:30 a.m., and does not allow re-entry.
Directions to Irvine Lake (Google Maps Directions)
Irvine Lake Address: 4621 E. Santiago Canyon Road, Silverado, CA 92676
From Irvine coming from West of Irvine Lake
- Take Jamboree East to (or toll 261) to E SANTIAGO CANYON RD.
- Turn RIGHT on E SANTIAGO CANYON RD.
- Turn LEFT BLUE DIAMOND HAUL RD., follow 1 mile parking will be on right
From Riverside on 91 Freeway Coming from North of Irvine Lake
- Merge onto CA-241 S toward IRVINE (Portions toll)
- Take the SANTIAGO CYN exit toward CHAPMAN AVE. (go 0.5 miles)
- Turn LEFT onto SANTIAGO CANYON RD. (go 2.1 miles)
- Turn LEFT BLUE DIAMOND HAUL RD., follow 1 mile parking will be on right
From Rancho Santa Margarita coming from the South
- Merge onto CA-241 N (Portions toll)
- Take the SANTIAGO CANYON RD exit toward CHAPMAN AVE.(go 0.3 miles)
- At offramp Stoplight Turn RIGHT onto SANTIAGO CANYON RD. (go 2 miles)
- Turn LEFT BLUE DIAMOND HAUL RD., follow 1 mile parking will be on right
Coming From South, non-toll
- Take SANTIAGO CANYON RD
- Cross under bridge before Irvine Lake entrance turn RIGHT on BLUE DIAMOND HAUL RD.
Irvine Lake Fishing
Irvine Lake currently offers shoreline fishing only during posted operating hours. The lake is stocked, with trout generally associated with cooler-season stocking and catfish with warmer-season stocking; use the current stocking schedule above for announced dates. Bass are catch-and-release only, and anglers can also target species such as catfish, carp, bluegill and crappie. Fishing is limited to designated shoreline areas, which may change with water levels. Boats, kayaks, float tubes and night fishing are not currently permitted.
Types of Fish at Irvine Lake
- Bluegill
- Carp
- Catfish (Blue and Channel)
- Crappie
- Largemouth Bass (Northern and Florida)
- Redear Sunfish
- Sturgeon
- Sunfish
- Trout (Rainbow, Brook, Brown and Steelhead)
- Wiper (aka hybrid striped bass or whiterock bass)
Historic Irvine Lake Fishing Records
- Rainbow Trout – 22.6 lbs
- Brown Trout – 12.5 lbs
- Steelhead Trout – 17.0 lbs.
- Channel Catfish – 50 lbs
- Blue Catfish – 89.6 lbs
- Largemouth Bass – 14 lbs 7oz
- Crappie – 4 lbs 2oz
- Bluegill – 2 lbs 4oz
- Sturgeon – 50 lbs
- Red Ear Sunfish – 2 lbs
- Common Carp – 45.02
Fishing Tips
- Use an ultra-light line for catching all species.
- Match line strength and tackle to the species, conditions and fishing technique.
- 2-pound test line if the fish are acting finicky, or are under heavy pressure during weekend or holiday periods.
- Power Bait or Gulp!, Berley Trout Dough, are popular baits. #16 or #18 treble hook.
- Chartreuse, yellow, rainbow, white are popular bait colors.
- Mackerel dipped in Bite-On Cajun and Berkley Garlic sauce or garlic flavored nightcrawlers dipped in Berkley Garlic.
- Use a bobber and let the bait hang for 3-4 feet.
- Shoreline hotspots include Trout island, the west shoreline and near the docks. Also try Santiago Flats, Rocky Point, Sierra Cove, and the dam.
- Keep bait leaders at 12 to 18-inch range, 6 -8 inches if muddy conditions.
- Try drop shots, spinnerbaits, crankbaits, jigs especially for catching bass.
- Use 3″ to 6″ plastics “split-shot style” with a #10 to #14 fine wire hook with a splitshot sinker.
- Live bait cannot be used and no boats thus trolling not a recommendation either.
- For bottom-feeding species such as catfish, anglers commonly use a weighted rig with an approved bait such as a nightcrawler.
Find a list of all places to fish in Orange County.
Irvine Lake Map
Print and download the Irvine Lake Map pdf.
Who Owns and Operates Irvine Lake?
The County of Orange owns 75 percent of Irvine Lake while the Serrano Water District (SWD) owns the remaining 25 percent of Irvine Lake. This also means Orange County and the SWD share the lake recreation rights and thus revenue.
As reservoir, Irvine Lake has rights that are controlled by The Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) (75% water rights) and SWD owns the remaining 25%.
Public shoreline fishing is operated under agreements involving the County of Orange and the lake’s partner agencies. In June 2026, Orange County approved an amended license agreement with James Productions for the public fishing concession and development of public recreational activities through June 30, 2031, with possible extensions.
The Irvine Co. was previously an owner as well but deeded over all their land rights to the County of Orange.
Irvine Lake Closure and 2019 Reopening
For almost 90 years Irvine Lake was the destination for Orange County fishermen and families seeking outdoor activities but sadly that came to an end over a disagreement over water recreation rights between Orange County and the Serrano Water District (SWD).
On Tuesday, June 25, 2019, The OC Board of Supervisors passed an Irvine Lake vote 5-0, marking a huge step towards bringing back offshore fishing and possibly much more to Orange County residents.
Irvine Lake reopened to public shoreline fishing in August 2019 after agreements among the agencies with interests in the lake. The reopening did not restore the former boating, camping and water-contact recreation.
Current public access remains focused on shoreline fishing. Visitors should rely on OC Parks for current operating rules and available recreation.
Irvine Company Deeds Land to County of Orange (June 11, 2019)
Tuesday at the Board of Supervisors meeting, the Irvine Company deeded over 29 acres of land to the County of Orange, marking the first step towards reopening Irvine Lake. For the past four years, the former boating and fishing hot spot has sat quiet, collecting weeds on the water’s surface.
“Political in fighting has stalled the usage of this lake, but thanks to the Irvine Company’s generous move, the County is finally in a position with Irvine Lake, Serrano Water District, and Irvine Ranch to bring back fishing for public enjoyment,” Supervisor Wagner said, “This summer, I hope to provide an incredible resource for Orange County residents.”
With the Irvine Company’s donation, all parties are now on the hook to come to an agreement. Once a consensus is reached, the County is willing to resume recreational activities at the largest, most sought-after lake in Orange County.
Supervisor Don Wagner represents the Third District communities of Irvine, Anaheim Hills, Orange, Tustin, Villa Park, and Yorba Linda on the Orange County Board of Supervisors.
Future of Irvine Lake
Irvine Lake remains open for shoreline fishing under current operating agreements. Its next major change will be the Santiago Creek Dam Improvement Project, described below.
Upcoming Irvine Lake Closure, Draining & Santiago Creek Dam Improvements
Irvine Ranch Water District is preparing for a major rehabilitation of Santiago Creek Dam, the dam that forms Irvine Lake. The project will replace and upgrade the aging outlet tower and spillway, strengthen the earthen dam, improve seismic safety and restore reservoir storage capacity. Construction is currently planned to begin in 2027, with the overall project expected to continue for several years.
As part of the work, Irvine Lake is expected to be partially or fully dewatered, and project documents call for draining the lake as low as possible before major dam construction begins. This work will affect public recreation and is expected to require closure of Irvine Lake during portions of the construction project. Exact closure and reopening dates have not yet been announced, so anglers should check OC Parks and Irvine Ranch Water District for updates before planning a future visit.
The improvements are intended to extend the useful life of the reservoir and dam, modernize critical infrastructure and improve long-term water reliability and safety. Current planning documents show construction beginning in 2027, with the schedule subject to change.
How to View Irvine Lake from Afar
It’s possible to take in the views of Irvine Lake through guided tours from Fremont Canyon, Black Star Canyon or at events such as the Irvine Lake Mud Run. However, it is against the law to enter the lake and there are posted signs prohibiting entry. Fremont and Black Star are part of the Irvine Open Space Preserve and these guided tours take you along trails overlooking the lake. Events like the Irvine Lake Mud Run are held at Oak Canyon Park and adjacent parks (Lakeview, Baja Beach, Little Oaks) which are private parks located at 5305 Santiago Canyon Road Silverado, CA 92676. The mud run trails also overlook Irvine Lake.
About Irvine Lake and Santiago Creek Reservoir
Address: 4621 Santiago Canyon Rd., Silverado, CA 92676
Irvine Lake is a man-made reservoir at the base of the Santa Ana Mountains and is one of Orange County’s largest bodies of freshwater. Reservoir capacity is measured in acre-feet rather than acres; water levels and surface area vary with reservoir operations. Santiago Creek feeds the lake and features a rustic scenery, beautiful mountains, steep rocky cliffs, shallow coves, deep creek channels, submerged high spots and overhanging trees.
Historically, Irvine Lake operated as a much broader fishing and family recreation destination. The amenities listed below describe former uses and should not be interpreted as activities currently available at the lake. Irvine Lake featured a fully-stocked bait and tackle shop, café, rental boats, private launch, and RV and tent camping. Beyond fishing visitors could hike, mountain bike, picnic and much more. For over 70 years Irvine Lake has been a great fishing and camping location for residents across Southern California. Kids often caught their very first fish at the Kids Lagoon, and scouts and Indian Guides camped on the shore. The lake featured the annual Villa Park Family Picnic, and the site of many reunions, festivals and family outings.
Today, there are still activities near or around Irvine Lake such as the Irvine Lake Mud Run and the Born Free motorcycle event. However, there is no contact allowed with the lake anywhere.
Historic Facilities & Activities at Irvine Lake
- Fishing (fishing license not required)
- Kids Fishing Lagoon
- RV, trailer, and tent camping
- Archery
- Boating
- Boat Rentals
- Tackle Shop
- Volleyball
- Horseshoes
- Basketball Court
- Cafe
- Hot showers Restrooms
- Picnic Area
- Play Area
- Water Outlets
Swimming, water-skiing or jet-skis were not allowed. Private boats, kayaks, float tubes and canoes were allowed until the insurance restrictions were put in place. Rental boats and pontoons were available for a time after that until another incident forced the prohibition of all water crafts.
Historic Irvine Lake Events
Irvine Lake historically hosted numerous festivals, fishing tournaments, family gatherings and community events. The list below is preserved as part of the lake’s recreation history rather than as a current event calendar.
Previous events at Irvine Lake Included:
- Boogaloo Mountain Jam
- Boy Scouts & Indian Guides Camping
- Coors Drag Racing Championships
- Family Reunions
- Fishing Tournaments
- Grand Prix of Drag Boat
- Irvine Lake Blues Festival
- Motorcycle Madness
- OC Music Festival
- Orange County Beer Fest
- Villa Park Family Picnic
Many of the events still exist but have moved elsewhere such as the Irvine Lake Mud Run and the OC Music Fest which moved to the private venue Oak Canyon Park which is on the eastern side of Irvine Lake.
There was also a water-ski school running illegally for nine years in the late 1990s and early 2000s until it was shutdown. The water district incorrectly believed it was not in violation of state law health codes if the skiers wore wetsuits.
Irvine Lake RV Storage
4621 Santiago Canyon Road
Silverado, CA 92676
Irvine Lake RV storage remains open.
History of Irvine Lake
In 1931 the Santiago dam was built on the Santiago creek by the Irvine Company, the Serrano Irrigation District (today known as the Serrano Water District) and the John T. Carpenter Irrigation District. James Irvine furnished the site for the dam and the reservoir Irvine Lake (formerly known as Santiago Reservoir). The lake originally served the agricultural and farming communities surrounding Irvine Lake and was opened to the public for fishing in 1941.
Today, Serrano Water District (SWD) provides potable water to the City of Villa Park and a small portion of the City of Orange. SWD receives its water supply from local surface water which is stored in Irvine Lake and groundwater from three wells located within the City of Villa Park. The Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) also uses untreated water from Irvine Lake to supplement its irrigation water and is able to treat water from the lake as part of the Baker Water Treatment Plant project.
Irvine Lake Sky View
Why was Irvine Lake Closed?
In 2014 the Irvine Company handed over their 75 percent controlling interest of the recreational rights of Irvine Lake to Orange County. The Serrano Water District (SWD) owns the other 25 percent. This “gift” unfortunately set off a disagreement between two government agencies who can’t agree on how to split profits from the lake businesses including RV & boat storage, gate fees, fishing and camping. Since both parties have a claim on the water recreation rights they both must agree on how the lake activities are operated.
Since the lake closing in 2016, negotiations would appear to have dragged on for years but really they haven’t because there has been little to no communication between Orange County and SWD. Adding to the problems, at the time of closing, revenue was also decreasing due to two drowning incidents which led to a boat ban and a drought which dropped water levels and reduced lake visitors.
Timeline
- December 2022 – Irvine lake held an inaugural free trout fishing derby on December 17, 2022.
- August 2019 – Irvine Lake reopened on Saturday, August 17, 2019.
- June 2019 – An agreement was reached and Irvine Lake will open up to shoreline fishing only.
- June 2019 – Irvine Co. donates the 29-acre frontage parcel to Orange County.
- 2016 to May 2019 – Negotiations remained at a standstill and Irvine Lake stayed closed.
- March 1, 2016 – Irvine Lake permanently closed.
- February 28, 2016 – Last day or fishing at Irvine Lake.
- 2016 – Orange County advises SWD that its recreational rights, i.e., lake fishing, would be terminated as of March 31, 2016.
- 2014 – 2106 – Orange County and SWD negotiate unsuccessfully for two years to reach an agreement over Irvine Lake rights.
- 2015 – All boating including rental boats banned following another drowning. Shoreline fishing only. Increased insurance restrictions/costs were again attributed for the change in policy.
- 2014 – Irvine Company gifts 2,500 acres of land near Anaheim Hills, East Orange and Irvine Regional Park to Orange County, including their 75% of Irvine Lake Rights.
- 2012 – All private boats banned and life jackets required following accidental drownings of two men and a $1.5 million settlement. Increased insurance restrictions/costs were attributed for the change in policy.
Irvine Lake FAQs
Is Irvine Lake open?
Yes. Irvine Lake is currently open for shoreline fishing Friday through Sunday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hazardous weather or Red Flag wind warnings may cause temporary closures.
How much does it cost to fish at Irvine Lake?
Fishing is free. Parking is $5 per vehicle with no re-entry. OC Parks Annual Passes are not accepted at Irvine Lake as of July 1, 2026.
Do I need a California fishing license at Irvine Lake?
No fishing license is currently required, although California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations and Irvine Lake-specific fishing rules apply.
Is Irvine Lake stocked with fish?
Yes. Irvine Lake is stocked. Check the current trout and catfish stocking schedule for announced stocking dates.
Can you boat, kayak or float tube at Irvine Lake?
No. Current public recreation is limited to shoreline fishing, and boats, kayaks and float tubes are not permitted.
Can you swim or camp at Irvine Lake?
No. Swimming, bodily contact with the water and camping are not currently permitted as part of public Irvine Lake fishing access.
Are dogs allowed at Irvine Lake?
No. Dogs are not permitted.
Will Irvine Lake close for dam construction?
The Santiago Creek Dam Improvement Project is planned to begin construction in 2027 and will require the lake to be drawn down significantly, with partial or full dewatering planned for construction. Public recreation is expected to be affected during the project. Exact closure dates have not yet been announced.