An African cichlid that found the warmest park lakes. They bed in the shallows and will eat a tiny jig if you are quiet.
Last reviewed: October 2026
Warm, shallow urban lakes and ponds — MacArthur, Echo Park, some South Bay park lakes — not the cold trout plants.
T14 CCR §5.83: open all year (except listed closures), no bag limit. They are not in Castaic cold basin in any numbers that matter. Look for them in the warmest city lakes in late spring and summer. Tiny jigs, bread, and worms. Park rules still apply.
Tilapia are deep-bodied, cichlid fish with a long dorsal fin, usually grey to olive with faint vertical bars. Several species and hybrids live in Southern California waters.
Tilapia thrive in warm urban lakes and channels. They are common in some LA park lakes.
Open all year. They are most active in warm months.
OEHHA's LA lake advisories do not list tilapia separately. Follow OEHHA's general advice: eat smaller fish, skinless fillets, and check the lake advisory map.
Tilapia have no bag limit under T14 CCR §5.83. A fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older. Park hours and no-fishing areas still apply.
Tilapia are not native to California. They were introduced for aquaculture and weed control and are now established in warm urban lakes, drainage channels and some reservoirs. Because they are non-native, the state sets no bag limit, and anglers are encouraged to keep them where park rules allow.
Tilapia are warm-water fish and become sluggish when water cools in winter. In summer they move into shallow water to build round nests on the bottom; these beds are often visible from shore. Fish guarding nests strike at small baits and lures that come near.
Small hooks with bread balls, corn or bits of worm under a light float are the simplest method. Many tilapia feed on algae and plant material, so vegetable baits work surprisingly well. Light line and patience help, because tilapia often nibble rather than strike.
Still a fishing license (age 16+) on inland water. Park hours and no-fishing signs override the generous bag.
California inland species regs — tilapia §5.83 →
Independent-site disclaimer: this summary is for orientation only and can change in-season. Confirm with CDFW before you keep a fish. Fish in LA is not affiliated with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
No bag limit under §5.83.
Yes, anglers 16 and older need a California fishing license.
Warm urban lakes such as some city and county park lakes.
Last reviewed: October 2026. Rules, stocking and access change; confirm with the agency linked above before you go.
