Frequently Asked Questions

Lake Activities

Questions

  1. How large is the lake?
  2. Is the lake man-made?
  3. How do we get to the lake?
  4. How far is the lake from the Guest Ranch?
  5. Can guests swim in the lake?
  6. Are snacks and beverages available at the lake?
  7. What type of fishing equipment is available for rent at the lake?
  8. What if I have never fished before?
  9. What kinds of fish are found in the lake?
  10. What do we do with the fish once they are caught?
  11. Can guests walk around the lake unaccompanied by Alisal staff?

Answers

  1. How large is the lake?

    The lake is about 100 acres in size and about 55 feet at its deepest point when full.

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  2. Is the lake man-made?

    Yes. The dam was constructed in 1971.

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  3. How do we get to the lake?

    The lake is only accessible via the Alisal lake shuttle. Guests may not walk on the lake road for safety reasons. Furthermore, because of our cattle ranch operation, there is a series of automatic gates along the road to keep the cattle in. 

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  4. How far is the lake from the Guest Ranch?

    The Lake is approximately 2.7 miles from the shuttle stop to the boathouse.  It takes about 10-15 minutes to get to the lake.

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  5. Can guests swim in the lake?

    No. We do not have a lifeguard on duty at the lake and, for safety reasons, swimming is never permitted.

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  6. Are snacks and beverages available at the lake?

    Yes. We would also be glad to arrange for box lunches to be delivered to you at the lake.

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  7. What type of fishing equipment is available for rent at the lake?

    Fishing poles, tackle, bait and various types of boats are available for rent at the lake boathouse.  Our boats include canoes, paddleboats, kayaks, sailboats, small motor boats and bass boats.

    For further information regarding boat and equipment rental,
    please see our Lake Activity page.

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  8. What if I have never fished before?

    The lake staff is more than happy to teach you how to fish.

    For guided fishing trip or fishing lesson information,
    see our Lake Activities page.

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  9. What kinds of fish are found in the lake?

    Largemouth bass and bluegill are the two more common types of fish in Alisal Lake.

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  10. What do we do with the fish once they are caught?

    All bass are natural spawn wild fish and fishing is on a "catch and release" basis.  This combination keeps the lake and the fish unstressed and provides some of the best bass fishing in the state.

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  11. Can guests walk around the lake unaccompanied by Alisal staff?

    No. The trail around the lake is not a self-guided trail.  Guided nature walks are available during certain times of the year.

    Contact Guest Services to inquire:
    Phone (805) 686-7700  |  Contact Form - Guest Services

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