Largemouth Bass/Smallmouth Bass
To fish for bass, it is important to know their habits, particularly what they eat. During the summer, bass usually spend their days and nights resting in the deeper water, but move to the shallow water to feed in the morning and evening. These areas have vegetation or other structures which attract the creatures which bass feed on. Anglers look for prime bass along rocky points and steep ridges, near floating vegetation, or in coves filled with trees. Excellent bass bait is available in the area.

Rainbow Trout
Rainbow Trout fishing is great at New Melones Lake. Trout fishing in the lake is done by trolling the deep, colder waters; generally around 40 to 50 feet (12 to 15 m) deep near the area of the dam. Rainbows of up to 5 lbs (2 kg) have been landed, with average weights being 3 to 4 lbs (1.3 to 1.8 kg). Bank anglers often catch trout in the areas of Angel's and Murphy's Creeks.

Kokanee
Kokanee Salmon are a real challenge to the sports angler. These beautiful fish are trolled for in 80 to 100 ft. (24 to 30 m) depths and are well worth the effort. They weigh in at 3 to 5 lbs (1.3 to 2 kg) and are found in the deeper, colder waters near the dam and spillway, Glory Hole Point and Rose Island.

In addition to game fish, New Melones Lake has several types of “pan fish.” These varieties are smaller in size and have higher daily limits.

Crappie
Crappie are slightly larger than a bluegill, approximately 1.5 lbs (0.7 kg) and are popular because of their flakey white meat. Crappies run in schools, making them fun and easy to catch in large numbers. Crappie are best caught near vegetation overhangs or near fallen trees, and they're a favorite with kids and shoreline fisherman.

Channel Catfish
The Channel Catfish and the White Catfish are distinguished from the Bullhead most easily by their deeply forked tails. The Bullhead has a blunt tail. All of the catfish species in New Melones Lake can be fished for from shore, and grow to extraordinary sizes - 11 to 13 lb (5 to 8 kg) fish are not uncommon. Catfish are best caught in the evening, although many anglers prefer late evening and night fishing for cats', who will strike at anything with a strong odor - just be prepared for a good fight with a strong fish.