See Southern California’s beauty from a different perspective when you visit the quaint city of Hemet. Hemet is a big agricultural center and an up-and-coming commuter area for gainfully employed people in the neighboring districts of Corona and Riverside.
Hemet is likewise known as the inspiration for the novel Ramona and the actual location of its most famous theatrical adaptation. The outdoor play staged at the natural amphitheater called the Ramona Bowl has become such an indelible tradition that it is now known as California’s Official Outdoor Play.
Hemet is often overlooked as a destination in favor of the more popular destinations in SoCal. It is still worth a visit, though, especially if you’re an angler looking for a peaceful yet productive inland fishing spot in this part of the region.
Most of the fishing in Hemet can be found in its lakes and reservoirs. A no-brainer way to start your fishing journey in the district would be to head to Lake Hemet inside the San Bernardino National Forest. The lake is home to robust populations of largemouth bass, sunfish, bluegill, catfish, yellow bullhead, and carp and receives an annual stocking of rainbow trout and lightning trout.
Little Lake in East Hemet should be on your list if you want a relaxing and scenic fishing experience. This small man-made lake allows no swimming, making it an excellent waterbody to fish for rainbow trout, channel catfish, carp, bluegill, and largemouth bass.
South of Hemet, you will find two more reservoirs that offer top-notch fishery. One is the famous Diamond Valley Lake. It’s a relatively new reservoir, but it is consistently one of the top-ranking water bodies for bass. Aside from its booming largemouth bass and smallmouth bass population, the lake is home to blue catfish, channel catfish, crappie, and bluegill. It is a popular bass fishing tournament venue, so be prepared for the crowds.
Another fishing you’ll find south of Hemet is Skinner Reservoir or Skinner Lake. Sport anglers love it for its trophy-sized fish, including striped bass, catfish, largemouth bass, and rainbow trout.
Lake Perris is a little further away but worth the trip, another top-ranking lake known for its rich bass fishery. Aside from trophy largemouth bass, rainbow trout, and panfish, Lake Perris is one of the few state lakes that receive a stocking of Kentucky spotted bass.
Hemet has five large parks scattered all over the city, offering facilities that the entire family can enjoy. Head to Gibbel Park and Valley Wide Community Sports Park for sporting activities. If hiking is more your thing, you will love Simpson Park and its views of the San Jacinto Valley.
Interested in dinosaurs, zebras, or military aviation? If any of those tickle your fancy, Hemet has a specific museum for you. Cabazon Dinosaur Museum has unique dinosaur models. March Field Museum has actual aircraft and many more aviation-related artifacts. Zebras R Us offers guided tours that allow you to meet these amazing animals up close.