Los Banos, CA (September 18, 2025) — With water levels on the rise at San Luis Reservoir, many Los Banos area anglers are hoping for stronger striped bass action, but local fishing reports indicate a slow start to the fall season.
As of this week, San Luis Reservoir is holding at 46% of capacity due to increased pumping from the South Delta. Despite the improved water level, fishing for striped bass has been hit or miss.
Local guide Roger George, who operates the only State Parks-authorized guide service at San Luis Reservoir, reported difficult conditions for boat anglers over the past week. George guided two guests to 11 striped bass up to 23 inches in length, but described the bite as “a grind,” with other anglers reporting just one or two fish. He cited recent full moon phases and persistent winds as possible reasons for the slowdown.
Bank anglers from Los Banos and nearby communities have concentrated on Dinosaur Point and Portuguese Cove, using pile worms, anchovies, and extra-large minnows. While bait supplies like jumbo minnows won’t be available until October, tackle shops say the currently available bait is still producing some results, especially when pumps are active near the Trash Racks.
Just downstream, O’Neill Forebay which is currently at 87% of capacity, has been more consistent. Striped bass, mostly undersized, are biting near Check 12, especially in the evenings and overnight hours. Some keeper-sized fish have been caught on topwater lures at night, offering better chances for local anglers willing to put in the hours.
A Reminder to Boaters
Due to the discovery of golden mussels, an invasive species, at O’Neill Forebay, vessels exiting San Luis Reservoir, O’Neill Forebay, and Los Banos Creek Reservoir will not receive clean boat tags. The public is urged to follow standard decontamination practices: clean, drain, and dry all watercraft and equipment before and after use.
Additionally, Los Banos Creek Reservoir remains closed until April 17, 2026, due to a long-term infrastructure project coordinated by multiple state agencies. Information on the closure is available at parks.ca.gov.
For guided fishing trips or more detailed reports, residents can contact Roger George Guide Service at rogergeorgeguideservice.com or by calling (559) 905-2954.
This article was written with help from Roger George, who provides fishing reports for The Fresno Bee, The Modesto Bee, and the Merced Sun-Star. He also provides weekly reports about fishing the San Luis Reservoir on the “Catch America” YouTube channel, which launched earlier this year.
