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Photo of Sutherland Reservoir

Sutherland Reservoir

Sutherland Reservoir is located approximately 45 miles northeast of San Diego, between Ramona and Julian. See the "What's New" page for current schedule.

Sutherland Reservoir Map

Directions: From Highway 78 take Sutherland Dam Road north to the reservoir. From the gate it's about .7 of a mile to the concession/launch area.

When full Sutherland Reservoir has 556.8 surface acres, a maximum water depth of 145 feet, and 5.25 shoreline miles. Water levels are monitored weekly.

There are four barbecues and 12 picnic tables in the picnic area. Patrons can bring self-contained barbecues for use in designated areas only. No ground fires or glass containers are allowed. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times and at least 50 feet away from the water. Dogs are not allowed on boats (private or rental).

Lake Sutherland offers fishing for Florida-strain largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, redear sunfish, channel catfish, blue catfish, bullhead, and carp. Minimum size limit for bass is 12 inches. Standard daily bag limits are 5 bass, 5 catfish and 25 crappie, with no limit on other species. Fish catch information is updated weekly.

Sutherland Reservoir PictureIn addition to fishing from boats, patrons can float tube or fish from shore. One and 3/4 miles of west shoreline and Santa Ysabel Arm are accessible by foot. Use of float tubes is restricted to within 150 feet or less from shore. Float tubers must wear chest waders and have a Coast Guard approved personal flotation device readily available at all times, and have 144 square inches of international orange visible at least 12 inches above the water line. They must also possess a horn or whistle to warn approaching craft. Any float tube that uses oars or has a motor must purchase a private boat use permit for $5.00.

Rowboats and boats with 5 HP outboard motors are available on Saturday and Sunday only.

There is no camping allowed at Sutherland. The nearest camping is Dos Picos County Park (12 miles west) or William Heise County Park. For reservations at County Parks call (858) 565-3600.

Waterfowl Hunting

Sutherland is open for waterfowl hunting on Thursdays and Sundays during the season. Reservations are accepted beginning in early October, at the San Vicente facility in Lakeside. To be added to the City's waterfowl hunting mailing list please email us at ssmith@sandiego.gov.

Turkey Hunting

Turkey hunting is offered from late March to early May at lake Sutherland. Reservations are distributed at the turkey tune-up, usually the weekend before the lake opens for fishing. To be added to the mailing list E-mail ssmith@sandiego.gov with your mailing address.



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