Photo Credit  Jim Snyder

Pardee Reservoir offers a wide range of recreational opportunities on both land and water. While it has only one boat launch, there are several paddling options. Paddlers can circumnavigate the entire reservoir, a roughly 8-hour journey, or opt for a shorter 5-hour trip by skipping the southern arm. Alternatively, they can paddle back and forth along the northwestern shoreline, though this risks encountering boat traffic.

The main downside of Pardee Reservoir is the prohibition on body contact with the water. However, this does cut down on boat traffic and noise, enhancing the paddling experience.

The reservoir is well-stocked, with populations of rainbow and brown trout, kokanee salmon, catfish, bluegill, and bass. Trout and kokanee fishing is best in spring, transitioning to bass in summer. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife plants 19,000 10-12 inch rainbow trout and 35,000 fingerling kokanee annually.

Since Pardee prohibits swimming, paddlers can enjoy a distraction-free experience without worrying about water skiers, jet skiers, or swimmers.

Map of Pardee Reservoir