Calero Reservoir

Being that this site is dedicated to San Jose and its surrounding areas I figured it was time to do some write ups on a few of our local lakes and reservoirs. Since I am one of the only two authors on this website (we are looking for writers!) I guess we can start with one of my favorite reservoirs, Calero. Here is an excerpt from the Santa Clara Valley Water District website:

“Calera” is the Spanish word for limekiln or limestone quarry. In 1935, the Santa Clara Valley Water Conservation District obtained land for the proposed Calero Reservoir from the Newman brothers. They had operated a ranch since they purchased the land in 1905 from the Bailey family, who owned 873 acres in what was then known as Calero Valley. Calero dam and reservoir is one of the six original reservoirs approved for construction by voters in May 1934. The dam and reservoir are located on Calero Creek. The reservoir can store 9,934 acre-feet of water. Its surface area is 349 acres.*

The Goods:

This reservoir is by far one of the best fishing spots in all of San Jose. Why? Because it has an abundance of bait fish, crawdads, creatures, mice, and vegetation. I’ve personally witnessed seven and eight pounders pulled out of this fishery and every year I’m amazed at how much I learn from place. It has a series of rocky points, underwater islands, and perfectly designed topwater flats. I’ve caught black bass here on jigs, spinnerbaits, crankbaits, tubes, senkos, drop shots, basstrix minnows, buzz baits, brush hogs, and more. If you fish here often I guarantee you will come out a better fisherman.

The other nice thing about this place is that when the lake is full it’s almost an even split of boating water and fishing water (5 MPH). You can easily find a cove, flat, or bank that is protected from the wakes from sporting boats. Even during the busy times you can always find good water.

The Bads:

The only real negative thing I can say about Calero is how the water tends to fluctuate quite a bit. Also, since this place is so close to San Jose, in the summer time you will have to battle with the ski boats and jet skis. This place can get a little dangerous when the reservoir is maxed out in boat/jet ski capacity. I personally witnessed two jet ski guys crash into each other while jumping our wake.

There are some really cool hiking trails that surround this place. Before our family had a boat, we would usually hike our way over to the second dam. It’s a trek, but if you work your way back there and fish each of the coves and points, you will definitely find some fish.

Like I said in my opening statement, this lake is a gem and we (SJB) would appreciate it if you would treat it as such. Have fun. Be safe.