Lake Chabot - Castro Valley, CA

Lake Information

Fish Species: Channel Catfish, Rainbow Trout, Largemouth Bass, Common Carp, Bluegill, Lightning Trout
Lake Chabot Reservoir, constructed between 1874 and 1875, was initially built to provide water to the East Bay. For 91 years, the 315-acre lake was closed to recreation. In the 1960s, new legislation allowed for controlled recreational access. On June 18, 1966, the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) opened Lake Chabot Regional Park to the public after reaching an agreement with the East Bay Municipal Utilities District (EBMUD), which owns the reservoir.

Nestled in the hills, Lake Chabot offers a peaceful retreat just outside the bustling Bay Area. It is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring an 8.5 to 9-mile trail that winds around the lake. The trail accommodates hikers, cyclists, and runners, with sections varying from paved paths to rugged dirt tracks, offering both challenges and scenic views. The park is dog-friendly, and mountain bikers and horseback riders are also welcome.

Visitors can enjoy a relaxing day at the lake with activities like kayaking and fishing, though the latter can be difficult due to occasional algae blooms. Amenities such as a café, picnic areas, and clean restrooms enhance the experience. While parking may cost $5, free street parking is available. Visitors are encouraged to follow regulations to maintain the lake’s purity, as it serves as an emergency water supply.



Latest Photos

5 lbs.
Cheeze
5-21-2024
20 lbs.
Matt
3-11-2024
9 lbs.
John
1-12-2024
9 lbs. 6 oz.
11-15-2023

Lake Chabot Whoppers

Species Weight Date Report
Channel Catfish 20 lbs. 3-11-2024 View Report
Largemouth Bass 19 lbs. 10-28-2016 View Report
Channel Catfish 14 lbs. 9-05-2019 View Report
Largemouth Bass 11 lbs. 12 oz. 1-24-2018 View Report
Rainbow Trout 10 lbs. 2-20-2020 View Report
Rainbow Trout 9 lbs. 6 oz. 11-15-2023 View Report
Rainbow Trout 9 lbs. 1-12-2024 View Report
Rainbow Trout 8 lbs. 14 oz. 12-27-2022 View Report
Rainbow Trout 8 lbs. 13 oz. 11-07-2021 View Report
Rainbow Trout 8 lbs. 8 oz. 11-11-2019 View Report

Latest Fish Plants

Plant DateSpeciesSourceTotal Pounds
6-02-2025Rainbow TroutEBRPD500
4-28-2025Rainbow TroutEBRPD1000
4-22-2025Rainbow TroutEBRPD1000
4-14-2025Rainbow TroutEBRPD1000
4-07-2025Rainbow TroutCDFW 


Latest Fish Reports

Date Report Author
3-12-2025 Plant Alert!
Plant Alert! Trout just made Lake Chabot their... more »
Lake Chabot Marina
5-21-2024 5 lb. Rainbow
Let's give a big shoutout to Cheeze for... more »
Lake Chabot Marina
3-22-2024 5.5-foot sturgeon at Lake Chabot
  STURGEON ALERT   #RePosted from Castro Valley News Vincent Acosta... more »
Lake Chabot Marina
3-21-2024 Rainbow Trout Plant Alert
RAINBOW TROUT PLANT ALERT! At Lake Chabot Marina, Mt.... more »
Lake Chabot Marina
3-11-2024 20 lb. Catfish at Lake Chabot
  Congratulations to Matt of Daly City for catching... more »
Lake Chabot Marina

Detailed Map