Bethany
Reservoir is located at the northern-most
part of the San Joaquin Valley in the Four
Rivers District.
The reservoir lies nestled between rolling hills below windmill farms
in a secluded
park known as Bethany Reservoir State
Recreation Area.
Bethany Reservoir provides a peaceful paddle
amongst rolling grass-covered hills with
sparse trees. They say that beauty is in the
eye of the beholder, but I think you’ll
agree, the lake offers little in the way of
scenery or shady pullout locations.
On a windless day, kayaking on Bethany
Reservoir is like skimming softly across
liquid glass. Unfortunately, strong westerly
winds can occur year round, making the
reservoir an ideal venue for windsurfing and
a bit challenging for paddlers.
In the early morning hours, as the sun rises
over the horizon is the best time of day to
go paddling. There are endless miles to
explore here, but keep in mind it is hot and
dry in the summer months with temperatures
hovering in the high 90s and low 100s. If
you’re soaking in the summer sun, don’t
forget to take in the amazing sunsets, as
you are ready to call it a day.
Bethany Reservoir is a haven for kayak
angers. Whether you plan to fish near the
intake at the south end, by the dam at the
northwestern end, or in one of the coves in
the middle of the reservoir, you are bound
to catch a fish or two.
Anglers will find a wide variety of fish,
including striped and largemouth bass,
catfish, crappie, brown trout, bluegill a
nd
bullhead. So grab your favorite fly-fishing
rod and reel, and head over to Bethany
Reservoir, but be sure to bring a large
umbrella when you visit to keep protected
from the sun.
