Catfish Opener Weekend Event Returns To Santee Lakes

SANTEE, CA — Catfish season returns this weekend to Santee Lakes.

Lakes 2, 3 and 4 will be stocked with 2,500 pounds of catfish for the two-day Catfish Opener, according to event organizers. A total of 25 of the catfish will be tagged for $25 gift cards to Sportsman's Warehouse.

"This is the best time of the year to come fishing at Santee Lakes," event coordinator Greg Even said.

The event is scheduled from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve at 9310 Fanita Parkway.

Gate entrance is $7 per car. Permits can be purchased in advance at the General Store at Lake 5 or the gatehouse near the entrance. Permits cost $10 for adults and $6 for juniors and seniors. A second pole stamp is $4.