Main Launch Ramp is currently open for some launching. However, this is subject to change based on wind and weather conditions. However please be advised that we are experiencing significant mud and debris flows from area storms. While boating keep a sharp lookout at all times for floating and partially submerged objects and monitor your vessel's motor for overheating due to particulate matter clogging your water intake.
New: Upper Lake Map with cove names, and a second page with regulations.
Can be used to identify your location in emergency when calling for Lifeguard assistance (661) 257-4050.
The upper lake is home to many different recreation activities, and is the primary facility for motorized watercraft. The main reservoir houses two launch ramps, of which the east (main) launch ramp can service 18 full lanes of traffic, and the west (seasonal) launch ramp can hold 6. Boaters have a chance to experience 2,235 acres of explorable waterways and coves, and shoreline fisherman can test the 29 miles of shoreline, some of which is pathway accessible.
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The maximum depth of the reservoir is approximately 330 feet deep.
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Fishing off of the dam is allowed, and offers a unique fishing experience.
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The east arm is dedicated to fishing. (Fishing is allowed in the west arm coves and shoreline).
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The west arm is dedicated to watercraft activities such as skiing, wakeboarding and other towable watercraft.
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A separate area dedicated for personal watercrafts (PWC’s) is located near the dam, and is approximately 1 mile in diameter.
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All boats must have "CF" numbers on the front bow, valid registration and all safety equipment in order to launch.
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*PLEASE HELP KEEP OUR WATERWAYS FREE OF INVASIVE SPECIES! Find out what you can do to help.
Castaic Landing - Boat Rentals & Fishing Supplies:
Located at the upper lake main launch ramp, 14’ aluminum boats and a variety of fishing supplies are available for rent.
Rentals are on a first-come first-serve basis. Click here for more information.
Boating:
Please be aware that boat launching may or may not be allowed depending on weather conditions at any given time. Lifeguards continuously evaluate weather conditions to ensure that a safe and enjoyable experience can be had. Strong winds (usually 25 mph or more) can adversely affect launch conditions.
All boats are subject to inspection for life preservers and fire extinguishers upon entrance. Each vessel is required by law to contain one wearable life vest per person PLUS one throwable cushion for boats 16' or over. All fuel-powered vessels must have a fire extinguisher, including personal watercrafts.
California Boating Laws, as well as Los Angeles County Ordinances covering boating apply and are enforced. Please read and be familiar with the "ABC’s of California Boating".
Boating and General Use :
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Children 12 years of age and younger must wear a Coast Guard approved personal flotation device(PFD).
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Vessel operators must be at least 16 years of age.
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Lake speed limits: Maximum speed limit is 35 MPH. Coves and launch ramp areas are 5 MPH. Refer to map.
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SWIMMING IS PROHIBITED
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Bow riding is prohibited.
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CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES IS PROHIBITED. L.A. Co. Ord. 17.04.440
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Possession of any type of firearm is prohibited.
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All vessels must possess a valid launch permit, and shall be subject to inspection at any time.
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Please prepare vessel in the upper parking lot. Park in designated boat/trailer areas ONLY.
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Launch and retrieve vessels from designated areas.
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Vessels must carry a Coast Guard approved life preserver for each person on board and at least one fire extinguisher. Please refer to the "ABC's" of Boating for more info on Fire Extinguishers.
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All vessels, other than Personal Watercraft (PWC) are to stay out of special use areas.
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Castaic Lake is a drinking water reservoir. FUELING OF ANY VESSEL ON THE WATER IS PROHIBITED.
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All boats must travel in a COUNTER CLOCKWISE direction.
Fishing:
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Trolling in the ski area is NOT permitted.
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All California Fish and Game regulations are strictly enforced.
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(** Black bass and Largemouth bass must be at least 15 inches. Limit: 5)
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Cleaning of fish on the water or shoreline is STRICTLY PROHIBITED.
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Fishing from launch ramps and docks is prohibited.
Black Bass Limits (As of March 1, 2015):
Effective March 1st, 2015 the new legal black bass limit will be 5 fish at 15 inches for Castaic Lake. These regulations can be found in Title 14, California Code of Regulations, section 5.00. Use this link to www.wildlife.ca.gov/Regulations page.
"Regulations" PDF file. 3.3 MB - 15-16CaliforniaFreshwaterFishingRegulations.pdf
Wakeboarding & Waterskiing:
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Water Skiing and Wakeboarding are restricted to designated areas. (See map)
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Ski boats must travel in a COUNTER CLOCKWISE direction.
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A maximum of one skier may be towed, or two riders on a multiperson tube may be towed.
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All boats towing a skier shall have an OBSERVER not less than 12 years of age.
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Red ski flags must be used to indicate a skier, rope,or ski gear is in the water (according to the "ABC's" of CA Boating law).
Personal Water-craft Rules/Regulations:
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Personal Watercraft may only carry the number of passengers for which it is manufactured.
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Personal Watercraft may not tow anything, including a skier, inner tube, etc. (No waterskiing or wakeboarding is allowed in the PWC area.)
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Personal Watercraft are restricted to the special PWC area of the lake and must travel in a COUNTER CLOCKWISE ROTATION.
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Passing too close to other vessels can be dangerous at any speed.
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PWC operators must keep a distance of 25 feet from any other vessel, when traveling at greater than idle speed.
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The owner of any Personal Watercraft is responsible for the actions of anyone who uses his vessel.
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Castaic Lake is a drinking water reservoir. FUELING OF ANY VESSEL ON THE WATER IS PROHIBITED. FUELING OF PERSONAL WATERCRAFT IS TO TAKE PLACE OUT OF THE WATER.
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Immediately upon launching, all PWCs must proceed directly to the special use area at a speed of 5 MPH.
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Fuel must be stored in the designated fuel area only.
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VESSEL OPERATORS MUST BE AT LEAST 16 YEARS OF AGE.