Famous fishing destination, Diamond Valley Lake, also known as The Diamond, is ready to test all levels of fishing skills this Spring. Rainbow trout are stocked on a regular basis but the reservoir is also home to black bass, striped bass, largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, and both blue and channel catfish. During this season, the fish are spawning and more active, and largemouth bass remain in the shallow water. These current conditions at Diamond Valley Lake, a manmade reservoir in the Santa Ana River watershed, attract fishermen from across the globe. Anglers often pull in 4-5 pound largemouths but some truly giant fish weighing in at more than 10 pounds can be caught in April and May, before the hot summer sun forces the fish to find cooler deeper water. Entrance to the lake is $9 per car, a fishing license can be obtained for $3 per person, and you can even rent a boat at the marina.
Spring is also the perfect time to experience the beauty of wildflowers at The Diamond. Many varieties such as Baby Blue Eyes, Owl’s Clover, Canterbury Bells and the California Poppies cover the surrounding hills. With so many beautiful flowers to see, it’s no surprise that hiking is a popular pastime at The Diamond, with well-marked trails, some of which also allow non-motorized bicycles and horses. For adventurous hikers, there is a 21.8 mile complete lake loop that requires you to carry your own water supply as there is no accessible water on the trail. Shorter hikes like the North Hills Trail (6 miles) and the Flower Trail (1.3 miles) give visitors access to flower-viewing with less walking. Be sure to stay on the trails; too much activity on the trails and surrounding land caused temporary closures of the Flower Trail in previous years. Dogs are not permitted on these trails. Check out the Diamond Lake website for other restrictions, trail maps and park hours.
With proper planning, an enjoyable Spring day on an April weekend can be spent at Diamond Lake in Hemet before the flowers fade and the big fish move out to deeper water.
