Lake Matthews - Corona, CA

Lake Matthews, located near Corona in Riverside County, is a large man-made reservoir constructed in 1939 as a critical component of Southern California’s water supply infrastructure. While its expansive surface area and scenic surroundings make it visually impressive, it is important to emphasize that Lake Matthews is not open to the public for any recreational use, including fishing.

The lake is owned and managed by the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, which has designated it strictly as a drinking water reservoir. As such, all forms of public access—boating, fishing, swimming, or hiking along its banks—are prohibited and actively enforced by local and regional authorities. Attempts to fish in or around the lake can result in fines or citations for trespassing.

Historically, Lake Matthews was rumored to hold significant populations of largemouth bass, catfish, and panfish. However, because the lake has not been accessible to anglers for decades, the actual condition of the fishery is speculative and unverified by any contemporary biological surveys or stocking programs.

Despite its inaccessibility, Lake Matthews often piques the interest of local anglers due to its size and relative seclusion. For those seeking fishing opportunities in the area, nearby alternatives include Lake Perris, Diamond Valley Lake, and Santa Ana River Lakes—all of which are open to the public and provide well-managed fisheries. Until further notice or a change in policy, Lake Matthews remains off-limits, and anglers are advised to respect access restrictions.