LAFAYETTE, CALIFORNIA — Thousands of pounds of live fish are expected to be dumped into Lafayette Reservoir again this winter, and even a major construction project at the popular East Bay recreation destination won’t stop the annual tradition.
A Lafayette Reservoir staff member confirmed to Bay Area Telegraph in a phone conversation that fish stocking is expected to resume in late November, once the water cools down.
The confirmation comes as the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) continues a major seismic upgrade to the reservoir’s iconic tower, a project that has brought construction crews, equipment and temporary disruptions to the popular Lafayette landmark.
The news should come as a relief to local anglers who have been wondering whether the construction would interfere with one of Lafayette Reservoir’s most popular seasonal activities.
Thousands of Pounds of Fish Are Coming
The annual stocking program is no small operation.
During the 2025-2026 season, EBMUD scheduled approximately 12,000 pounds of trout to be released into Lafayette Reservoir over several months.
The district’s official stocking schedule called for deliveries generally involving 1,000 pounds of trout at a time, beginning in November and continuing through March.
The fish include rainbow trout and, in previous stocking seasons, the distinctive golden-colored variety known as lightning trout.
The fish come from Mt. Lassen Trout Farms, a Northern California fish supplier.
The reservoir staff member confirmed that Mt. Lassen is expected to supply the fish again this year.
An exact stocking schedule for the upcoming 2026-2027 season has not yet been published on EBMUD’s website, so the total number of fish and individual delivery dates are still to be announced.
What About That Massive Construction Project?
One of the biggest questions surrounding the annual stocking program this year has been the major work underway at Lafayette Reservoir.
EBMUD is in the middle of a roughly $14 million seismic safety upgrade to the reservoir’s historic outlet tower.
The project involves shortening the familiar structure by approximately 40 feet and installing new equipment to improve its ability to withstand earthquakes.
Construction began earlier this year, with major work taking place through the summer and fall. The overall project is expected to continue through fall 2027.
The district says the improvements are necessary to address seismic safety concerns with the tower, which plays an essential role in managing the reservoir’s water.
Although construction has affected some recreational areas and access routes, EBMUD has said the reservoir will remain open during the project, with temporary closures or restrictions as necessary.
And, according to the staff member who spoke with Bay Area Telegraph, the annual fish stocking program is still moving forward.
That’s welcome news for local fishing enthusiasts who might otherwise have expected a disruption during such an extensive construction project.
Why Does EBMUD Dump Fish Into the Reservoir?
Lafayette Reservoir is one of the East Bay’s most accessible recreational fishing destinations, and the annual trout deliveries help keep it that way.
Unlike fish populations that reproduce naturally in a lake, stocked trout are raised at specialized fish farms and transported to the reservoir in trucks.
The fish are then released into the water, where they become available for recreational anglers to catch.
The reservoir is also home to other species, including catfish, bass and sunfish.
For local residents, the program provides an opportunity to catch trout close to home without making the drive to mountain lakes or streams.
The cooler months are particularly popular for trout fishing because of the seasonal stocking schedule.
Want to Catch Some? Here’s What You Need
Fishing is permitted at Lafayette Reservoir, but anglers need to follow several rules.
According to EBMUD’s reservoir information page, anglers must have a valid California fishing license if required for their age, along with an EBMUD Fishing Access Permit.
The access permit can be purchased at the reservoir’s Visitor Center.
Fishing opportunities are available from the shoreline and designated fishing areas, and boats can also be used on the reservoir subject to park rules.
Visitors should also be aware of any posted water quality advisories, including warnings involving potentially harmful algae, before handling or consuming fish.
Residents can follow the official Lafayette Reservoir website for the latest stocking schedule.
