CONNECT with the CityLower Otay Reservoir
WARNING: Due to an algae bloom producing cyanotoxins, the public is advised to avoid contact with the water in Lower Otay Reservoir. Toxins from the algae can harm people and kill animals. The public is advised not to have any contact with the water and keep pets out of the water. The algae bloom does not affect the safety or quality of the City’s treated drinking water. The City’s drinking water is treated using several processes, ensuring the City's drinking water meets all federal and state drinking water standards.
Hours of Operation
Lower Otay Reservoir is closed on the second Wednesday of each month. More info about closure
Open
Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday
sunrise to sunset
Closed
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday
Holiday Schedule:
OPEN - Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day
CLOSED - Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day
Recreation
Water Activities, including:
- Boats
- Canoes and Kayaks
- Float Tubes
Water Fountain
Fishing
Leashed Dogs
Picnic Tables
Barbecue Areas
Charcoal and gas barbecues allowed in designated areas
Restrooms
No Stand Up Paddleboards
No Swimming
No Dogs Allowed on Boats
No Camping
No Ground Fires
No Glass Containers
No Littering
No Fish Cleaning Stations
Fishing
What you'll find here...
Largemouth Bass
Sunfish
Catfish
Crappie
Carp
Permits and Fees
Anglers 16 years of age or older must have a valid California fishing license. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife Freshwater Sport regulations and City regulations are strictly enforced.
Patrons can purchase permits from the electronic pay station or iron ranger box (envelope system). Permits purchased at Lower Otay can be used on the same day at Upper Otay as well, and vice versa.
CASH OR CHECK ONLY
| Fishing | |
| Adults (16 to 65 years) | $11 per person |
| Youth (ages 8 to 15 years) Children 7 years and under are free. | $4 per person |
| Seniors (age 65 years and older) | $6 per person |
| Boating | |
Private Boating and Watercraft, including:
|
$11 per boat/craft $6 per craft |
| Boat and Kayak Rental Fees | |
About Lower Otay Reservoir
In 1897, the first Lower Otay Dam was completed by the Southern California Mountain Water Co. The Lower Otay Reservoir was connected to the City of San Diego's water system in 1906 via the Bonita Pipeline. Following heavy rains, the dam burst in 1916 and the Otay Valley was flooded. The dam was rebuilt in 1918 and renamed Savage Dam. When full, Lower Otay Reservoir has 1,100 surface acres, a maximum water depth of 137.5 feet, and 25 shoreline miles. Lower Otay Reservoir has a water storage capacity of 47,066.9 acre-feet. Water levels are monitored weekly. The reservoir is the home of the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center, a training site for United States Olympic Athletes for rowing sports.
Photo courtesy of SDFish.com