Borax Lake is a small, remote alkaline lake in Lake County with limited public access and a unique fish population

Borax Lake sits in the remote northeastern corner of Lake County, roughly 30 miles northeast of Lakeport. The lake covers about 170 acres and sits at roughly 1,400 feet elevation in sagebrush country. What makes Borax Lake distinct is its alkalinity — the water is significantly more alkaline than typical freshwater lakes, which shapes what lives there and how you fish it.

The lake holds a population of tui chub, a native minnow species that thrives in alkaline water where most other fish cannot survive. Borax Lake is one of the few places in California where you can target this species. The lake also has a small population of largemouth bass, though they are not the draw here. Access is limited: the lake is surrounded by private land, and public access points are few and require knowing exactly where to go.

This is not a destination for casual anglers or families looking for easy fishing. It is a place for people interested in catching a species found nowhere else in the state, willing to deal with rough access and small fish. If you are planning a trip, expect a half-day or full-day outing from a larger town, not a quick stop.

Key Takeaways

  • Borax Lake holds tui chub, a native alkaline-water species found in very few California locations, making it a destination for anglers seeking something unusual.
  • Public access is extremely limited and requires advance research; the lake is surrounded by private property, and access points change based on current ownership and permission.
  • Tui chub are small fish (typically 4 to 8 inches) that take small baits and flies; largemouth bass are present but not the primary target.
  • The nearest towns with services are Lakeport (30 miles away) and Susanville (50+ miles away), so plan accordingly for fuel, food, and lodging.
  • California fishing regulations apply, including a valid fishing license; check current regulations for any species-specific rules before you go.

Access and Getting There

Borax Lake is accessed via rough roads through private land in Lake County's remote northeastern section. The most common route is from Lakeport: head northeast on Highway 29, then follow local roads toward the Modoc Plateau. The final miles are unpaved and can be rough, especially in wet weather. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, and a four-wheel-drive vehicle is safer if you are unfamiliar with the road conditions.

Public access to the lake itself is limited to a small area on the eastern shore, and access permission can change. Before making the drive, contact the Lake County Department of Fish and Wildlife or check with local tackle shops in Lakeport to confirm current access conditions. Some years, access is open; other years, it may be restricted due to private land ownership changes or environmental management. Do not assume the lake is open to the public without confirming first.

The drive from Lakeport takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour depending on road conditions. Bring extra fuel, water, and supplies — there are no services once you leave Highway 29. Cell phone coverage is unreliable in this area, so do not depend on it for navigation or emergencies.

What Fish Live in Borax Lake and How to Target Them

Tui chub are the primary reason to fish Borax Lake. These small minnows are native to alkaline lakes and springs across the Great Basin, but they are rare in California. Borax Lake is one of the few places in the state where you can legally fish for them. Tui chub typically run 4 to 8 inches long, though occasionally larger fish are caught. They are not strong fighters, but they are a species most California anglers never encounter.

Fish tui chub with small baits: live minnows, small crickets, or bits of worm work well. Use light tackle — 2- to 4-pound test line and small hooks (size 12 to 16). Fly anglers can use small nymphs or wet flies in olive, brown, or black. Fish near the shoreline in shallow water, especially around any vegetation or structure. Early morning and late afternoon are typically most productive.

Largemouth bass are also present in Borax Lake, though they are not abundant. If you want to target them, use small soft plastics, crankbaits, or live baitfish. Bass fishing here is secondary; most anglers focus on the tui chub experience. Check current California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations for any size or bag limits on bass before you fish.

Seasons and Weather Conditions

Borax Lake is fishable year-round, but conditions vary significantly by season. Spring (March through May) brings warming water and active fish, though roads can be muddy and rough. Summer (June through September) offers the most stable weather and best road access, but the lake can get warm and fish may be less active during midday heat. Fall (October through November) brings cooler water and good fishing, with generally clear roads.

Winter (December through February) is possible but challenging. Snow and ice can make roads impassable, and the lake may freeze partially or completely. If you fish in winter, check road conditions before you go and be prepared to turn back. The high desert climate means temperature swings can be dramatic — bring layers and be ready for cold mornings and evenings even in summer.

Wind is common on the high desert, especially in spring and early summer. Afternoon winds can make fishing difficult and boat handling unsafe. Plan to fish early in the day when winds are typically lighter. The alkaline water can be harsh on skin and eyes; wear sunscreen and sunglasses, and rinse off after fishing if possible.

Regulations and Licensing

You must have a valid California fishing license to fish Borax Lake. Licenses are available online through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website, at sporting goods stores, or through various retailers statewide. A one-day license is available if you do not want a full-year license.

Check the current California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations for Lake County before you fish. Regulations can change year to year and may include specific rules for tui chub or largemouth bass. Some years there may be no bag limit on tui chub; other years, limits may apply. Bass regulations follow statewide rules unless Lake County has specific exceptions. The CDFW website has a searchable regulation guide organized by county and species.

Borax Lake itself is not a designated wilderness area, but the surrounding land is private. Respect all posted property boundaries and do not trespass. If you are unsure whether an area is open to public fishing, ask locally before you fish.

Lodging and Services Near Borax Lake

Lakeport, roughly 30 miles southwest of Borax Lake, is the nearest town with lodging, restaurants, and fuel. Lakeport sits on Clear Lake (California's largest freshwater lake) and has motels, RV parks, and a few restaurants. Fuel and groceries are available there. If you want to fish Borax Lake as a day trip, Lakeport is your base.

Susanville, about 50 miles to the northeast, is another option with more services and lodging choices. The drive from Susanville to Borax Lake is longer but may be easier if you are coming from the northeast. Both towns have tackle shops or sporting goods stores where you can pick up bait, tackle, or get current information about lake conditions and access.

There is no lodging or services at Borax Lake itself. Camping is not officially designated at the lake, though dispersed camping may be possible on public land nearby — check with the Lake County Department of Fish and Wildlife or Bureau of Land Management for current rules. Most anglers plan a day trip from Lakeport or Susanville rather than camping at the lake.

Why Borax Lake Matters and What Makes It Different

Borax Lake is significant because it is one of the last refuges for tui chub in California. The species is adapted to alkaline water and cannot survive in typical freshwater lakes. As alkaline lakes have been drained, developed, or altered across the state, tui chub populations have declined. Borax Lake remains one of the few places where the species thrives and where anglers can encounter it.

The lake is also a window into the Great Basin ecosystem. The high desert landscape, alkaline water, and adapted fish species reflect the ecology of the region east of the Sierra Nevada. If you are interested in California's natural diversity and less-common fish species, Borax Lake offers something you will not find at more popular destinations.

The remote location and limited access also mean the lake sees far fewer anglers than Clear Lake or other major California fisheries. If you value solitude and are willing to deal with rough access, Borax Lake delivers that experience. It is not a place to catch large numbers of fish or trophy-sized catches — it is a place to fish a rare species in a remote, unusual landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Borax Lake?

No. Shore fishing is the primary method, and public access is limited to a small area on the eastern shore where you can fish from land. If you have a boat, check with local authorities about launch access and any restrictions before bringing one. Most anglers fish from shore with light tackle and small baits or flies.

What is the best time of year to fish Borax Lake?

Summer and early fall (June through October) offer the most reliable access and stable weather. Spring can be productive but roads may be rough. Winter is possible but roads can be impassable. Early morning and late afternoon are typically best regardless of season, as tui chub are more active in cooler parts of the day.

Can I catch largemouth bass at Borax Lake?

Yes, largemouth bass are present, though they are not abundant and are not the primary draw. Most anglers focus on tui chub. If you want to target bass, use small soft plastics or live bait and fish near any structure or vegetation. Check current regulations for size and bag limits before you fish.

Is the road to Borax Lake passable in winter?

It can be, but winter access is unreliable. Snow and ice can make the unpaved final miles impassable. If you plan a winter trip, call ahead to confirm road conditions and be prepared to turn back. Summer and fall are much safer for access.

Where can I get current information about Borax Lake access and conditions?

Contact the Lake County Department of Fish and Wildlife or call a tackle shop in Lakeport. They can tell you whether public access is currently open, what the road conditions are, and what fish are active. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife website also has general information about the lake and current regulations.