San Diego & SoCal Fishing Forums

Hello folks,
I've always wanted to fish at Barrett Lake but since I'm mostly analog I get lost using the on line system. Everytime I go on line to see what my options are all I see is a reservation system that is always sold out. I am not sure if that's just for boat reservations or is it any access to the lake or am I so computer illiterate I am missing something obvious to those in the know.
I spend most of my time helping my wife fight off this damn cancer thing. So for now I am limited to Murray and Sweet Water. Hodegs and Cap are in my near plans. With a cpl of days heads up I can make it to Barrett with no problem or drama (ergo trying to use the reservation system)
I want to fish from shore, I am solo, 69 yrs old retired and practice Catch and release 99% of the time, what I keep I cook and eat.. Looking to get hooked up on bass and bluegill.
Any advise anyone can give is greatly appreciated.

Al Bob Lemon Grove

Hey Bob,

First off, I’m really sorry to hear about your wife’s health. I’ve personally been through similar situations and know how overwhelming it can be. Wishing you both strength and healing. It’s great that you’re still finding time to fish—it’s a great escape.

Now, about Barrett Lake—it’s definitely a bit of a maze if you’re not used to the system. You’re not alone there. Tickets can be hard to get, especially early in the season. They go on sale through Ticketmaster at 7 PM on the second Tuesday of each month for the following month’s access. For example, July reservations will open at 7 PM on Tuesday, June 10. Tickets sell out in minutes, but once the weather gets really hot, they tend to linger a bit longer.

There’s also a “ticket trader” section on these forums, where folks often post extra tickets—especially last minute. Worth keeping an eye on if you’re flexible.

Here’s a quick breakdown:
• Shore fishing tickets are $30, and let you either bring your own approved watercraft (most commonly kayaks and float tubes) or fish from the dock or shore near the dock or near the kayak launch at Pigs point. It’s not a huge area, but still a solid option.
• Boat tickets are around $130, which include one of Barrett’s Jon boats with a motor and anchor.
• Each ticket is for one person, but you can bring a guest for $30 extra, paid in cash when you check in at the lake.

Here’s the official Barrett Lake rules and info page from the City of San Diego:
Barrett Reservoir Rules & Regulations

Actually, if you’d like to fish this Saturday, I have a shore ticket with a plus-one spot—you could join under my reservation and just pay $30 at check-in. You wouldn’t even need to come with me. You’d be able to fish from the dock or shoreline. Just shoot me a private message if you’re interested!

Hope that helps—and tight lines to you!

Reading your post, not sure if you are aware, it's catch and release only. Next month, prices may change also.

I think the shore (float tube and kayak also) ticket only entitles you to one vehicle but up to 2 people. Boat ticket gets 2 vehicles and up to 4 people. But with either, $30 for each person beyond the ticket holder.

They aren't always that picky at the gate so they might let a 2nd vehicle in on a shore ticket, especially later in the season.