El Capitan is a premier bass and crappie fishery headlining the fish
counts regularly. The words "North End" become very cliche when it
comes to this lake as the majority of fish, whether it be bass,
crappie, or catfish are reportedly caught at the North End of the lake.
Operated by the City of San Diego Water Department
No Concession Services Available - Cash Only for Launch and Lake Fees
Location
El Capitan is located in the rural hills east of Lakeside, surrounded by spacious horse ranches and old trees. The road to El Capitan is the first sign that you have left the city. From Interstate 8 proceed north on Lake Jennings Park Road, then east on El Monte Road 8 miles to the reservoir entrance.
History
The dam at El Capitan was completed in 1934 after some dispute between city planners as to where a dam should be built on the San Diego River.
Please see the Whats New section of the COSD Water Dept. website for current conditions and operating schedule. See the Permits and Fees page for current pricing.
Facilities and Recreational Info
There is a picnic area situated above the launch ramp with an elevated view of the lake that has barbecues and tables. There is no longer a concession at El Capitan, but there are vending machines with snacks and drinks, and lake staff is selling bait and state fishing licenses from the dock. Permits are purchased at the entrance permit booth. All persons entering the lake area are required to purchase a day use permit. There is minimal hiking terrain with only about 4 miles of shoreline accessible without a boat. Camping is not permitted at the lake, however the Lake Jennings Campground is only 7 miles away.
Fishing Information
El Capitan is a premier bass and crappie fishery headlining the fish counts regularly. The words "North End" become very cliche when it comes to this lake as the majority of fish, whether it be bass, crappie, or catfish are reportedly caught at the North End of the lake. For countless hints and tips on fishing at El Capitan search the Sdfish Archives for keyword "El Capitan". Bass (min. 15 inches, limit of 5), crappie (min. 10 inches, limit of 25), bluegill (no limit), blue and channel catfish (limit 5 each). El Capitan florida-strain largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, blue catfish, green sunfish, and carp.
Lake Records
Largemouth Bass
15 lb 5 oz
Bluegill
1 lb 9 oz
Green Sunfish
1 lb 0 oz
Redear Sunfish
1 lb 4 oz
Black Crappie
3 lb 12 oz
White Crappie
2 lb 7 oz
Channel Catfish
20 lb 6 oz
Blue Catfish
45 lb 5 oz
White Catfish
NA
Brown Bullhead
1 lb 14 oz
Black Bullhead
1 lb 5 oz
Yellow Bullhead
1 lb 7 oz
Carp
18 lb 0 oz
Rainbow Trout
NA
Special Regulations
Glass containers are not allowed in the park. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times and at least 50 feet away from the water. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on boats (rented or private).
