Placer County lake/ponds for kayak practice?

Hi, my son and I just got our first kayak, and last weekend took it out to Lake Natoma for practice, as we have never really kayaked before.

Anyone know of any small lake type, similar to Lake Natoma where we can launch and get some good practice in in the Lincoln/Rocklin area (where we are located)? Trying to support my sons fishing hobby, while still trying to be safe and smart about what we do and how we do it.

Would like to find something closer to us so we can go out more (as we have limited time per trip right now)

Thanks.

Andi

Rollins is a great one, also the deep water channel in west sac

Camp Far West is a great place to take a kid and just a few miles away from you.  Bass are easy to catch right now and the lake is so low that boat traffic is minimal even on weekends.  I would warn you not to park your vehicle to close to shore though as it can be very soft in spots.  Stay 20-30 yards away and you will be fine.

Folsom lake is also an option.

Hi A-Rod,

I'm in Rocklin myself. Folsom might be a long walk in mud to launch right now. it is only at 15% capacity. Just past Auburn on I-80 is Lake Theodore. Right by the Applegate exit. Never been there myself but is close to us.

Rancho Seco Lake is an easy one also.

Also Sugar Pine Reservoir off of Foresthill Road is very nice.

Have fun.

Lake Theodore is a NO boat/kayak lake. Camp far west lake, take some deep and shallow crank-baits, troll along and you will get bass. Bright colors, Shad imitations. Larger lures = larger fish... Roofinrich will probably be out there sat morn.... I'll be in bodega! Rollins is Lowering fast and fishing has been hard. Have fun!!! I might be hitting rollins Sunday afternoon. Will post hookup If I get out there...

Fished Folsom twice last week and while it is low it wasn't that hard of a launch. The fishing was better than average as well.

Let me know if you wanna meet up one eve to fish Folsom.

Go fish with James!!!!!!

Thanks everyone for the feedback. My son is the fisherman (mom here) is just along for the ride. But really want to feel nice and comfy on the kayak before we venture out fishing off of it. Of course my son follows the, do first ask later rule!

Andi!

Highly recommend fishing with James. He has taught my son and I a ton! We had a great evening out in Folsom last Sat. Connected more than a few times with some fishies

Waters still pretty warm. Good time to figure out that fall in, get back on thing bonsai!!! Go for it!

Waters still pretty warm. Good time to figure out that fall in, get back on thing bonsai!!! Go for it!

This is my biggest fear, he and I out in some lake, and in we go. I already feel unstable on that thing (hahaha), and the thought of him casting his rod while we are trying to maintain our balance; just seems like a disaster waiting to happen!

Stability will come with confidence and more seat time. You can also dangle your feet over the sides to increase your stability while he casts.

Plus your going to be wearing a pfd each so if you fall in......all you get is wet

...so if you fall in......all you get is wet

EXACTLY!!!!