Sweetwater Reservoir, artificial lake in San Diego County, California, United States
Sweetwater Reservoir is a man-made lake in California near Bonita, managed by the local water authority and used primarily for fishing. A roughly 2.5-mile stretch of shoreline on the south side is open to the public with parking, portable restrooms, and trash facilities for visitors.
The reservoir was built many years ago to hold water and support the local area's water supply needs. Over time, it evolved into an important outdoor recreation spot and fishing destination for the community.
The reservoir is an important spot for the local community and is valued by anglers who practice fishing here with simple baits like mealworms and crickets. It draws people seeking quiet time by the water and those who enjoy watching birds and wildlife in their natural setting.
Access to the fishing area is available Friday through Monday, with shorter hours from October to February and extended hours from March to September. The site is closed on major holidays, and only cash is accepted for fees, so visitors should plan accordingly.
To prevent the spread of invasive mussels, the authority bans certain live baits like shiners and crawfish sourced from local waters. This measure protects the water ecosystem and native fish populations, making it a responsible fishing destination.
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