Chimney Reservoir was created in 1974 in a narrow gorge just downstream from the confluence of the north and south forks of the Little Humboldt River. The water rights are owned by Garvey Ranches and Humboldt County Fair and Recreation Board, with the water used for recreation and irrigation.
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- Region
- Western
- County
- Humboldt
- Type of water
- Lake or Reservoir
Fishing Report
Ice is going to limit the ability to fish Chimney until Spring. Fishing for walleye, crappie, channel catfish and wipers is typically fair through summer at Chimney. Tiger Muskie have been stocked in the lake but have not begun to show up in significant numbers.
02-12-2023Stocking Updates
| Stocked | Species | Inches | Date Stocked | Year to Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1373 | Tiger Muskie | 5.3 | 09-12-2022 | 1373 |
Pertinent Information
Chimney Reservoir sits at an elevation of 4,650 feet and covers 2,150 surface acres. When full, it averages 16 feet deep with a maximum depth of 55 feet. Fish include white crappie, walleye, largemouth bass, channel catfish, bluegill, wipers (white bass x striped bass hybrid), and tiger musky (muskellunge x northern pike hybrid). In 2015, 2017, and 2018 juvenile tiger musky was stocked with the intention of growing large and helping to control carp abundance. The best times of year to fish are March and April for crappie, walleye, and channel catfish. Use standard crankbaits or small jigs fished along the shoreline or over deep-water structures found offshore. Approved live minnows work best for crappie. Channel catfish are caught on nightcrawlers, liver, shrimp, and minnows fished on the bottom. Tiger muskie were first stocked in 2015 to help control the fast growing carp population and they are known to grow quickly, reaching over 10 pounds within 2 to 3 years. Camping occurs at developed sites with restrooms nearby on the eastern shoreline and boat launching at a concrete ramp. No fees are required for use of the facilities.