Clear Lake California

At the heart of Lake County lies the largest natural freshwater lake in California. Clear Lake is a recreational playground that draws thousands of people every year to take part in all it has to offer. With an abundance of private lake-front real estate the lake is also fast-becoming one of the California's hottest real estate markets with many retirees choosing to relocate to the clean air and abundant recreational opportunities that the lake provides.

At its widest Clear Lake measures 19 miles long and wide. It covers a vast 64 square mile surface area and over 100 miles of shoreline. The lake is estimated to be over 2 million years old. On the southeast side of the lake sits Mt. Konocti, a dormant volcano with an elevation of 4,300 feet. Many legends surround the mountain, but the most popular is derived from an old Indian legend about a beautiful Indian princess whose father, Konocti got in a fatal duel over the hand of his daughter with her lover. Her tears from their deaths are said to be the cause of the bubbly waters of Soda Bay. The actual cause of the bubbles are Mt. Konocti's hot volcanic vents.

Scientists have long theorized over the existance of an underground lake inside of Mt. Konocti. Locals have told stories of caving in the mountain and dropping rocks which were never heard to have hit bottom and of dropping sticks which were found days later in Clear Lake. However, these stories are all over 50 years old and explorers who have since gone into the mountain have been unable to find the vertical shaft which if found could well be the largest vertical drop on earth at over 2000 feet.

Due to Clear Lake’s enormous size and warm temperatures it is a magnet for water sports of all types. Jet skiing, wakeboarding, waterskiing, wave runners, kayaking, canoeing, pontoons, and even paddle boats are popular choices. One of the premier events on the lake is Boardstock, a world-class annual 4 day event that takes place at Mt. Konocti Harbor Resort and Spa. It features the World Series Wakeboard Tour, the World Wake Surf Championship, freestyle motor cross, skydiving, and headliner concerts sure to entertain the whole family.

Clear Lake California is also renowned for excellent fishing. Bass, catfish, crappie and bluegill draw a host of sport fishermen each year. On an annual basis Clear Lake is host to around 20 bass tournaments and with an average weight of 3.27 pounds per fish in these tournaments it is no wonder that Clear Lake has been called the "Bass Capital of the West." There are many quality guide services available to anyone wanting to fish the lake with someone who knows all of the best spots and tactics.

From the best bass fishing in the West, to endless water sports, to relaxing in the abundant sun Clear Lake California is sure to have something for everyone.