Walleye

While Southern California isn't typically known as a walleye hotspot, the die-hard angler around Lake Forest can find some success in select reservoirs within a reasonable drive. Focus your efforts on lakes that have a healthy shad population, as these are a primary food source for walleye. Spring and fall are prime times; as water temperatures moderate, walleye move into shallower areas to feed. Look for structure like submerged timber or rocky points, especially where these features intersect with drop-offs. A practical tip is to check local fishing reports for Diamond Valley Lake or Lake Perris; these larger bodies of water sometimes have walleye populations. When presenting your bait, remember that walleye can be finicky. Start with natural presentations like nightcrawlers or live minnows on a jig head, and adjust your depth based on temperature and current. Be prepared to experiment with different retrieves until you find what the fish are responding to on any given day. The walleye here aren't as abundant or large as in the Midwest, but the challenge makes landing one all the more rewarding.