Dir. vent :
N
NNW
NW
WNW
W
WSW
SW
SSW
S
SSE
SE
ESE
E
ENE
NE
NNE
Vent: Mini: 12| Maxi 30 kn Rafale Max : kn
Thermalito Afterbay is a large reservoir forming part of the Oroville-Thermalito Complex, located just west of Oroville, California. It shares similar conditions with the nearby Black Butte Lake situated in the center of the Sacramento Valley, though the latter may offer more rideable days with high winds. The Afterbay, on the east of the valley, tends to be less windy with friendly onshore conditions during strong north wind events.
Season:
The Afterbay's season is prolonged by its low elevation and reliable water source, with rideable days often dictated by passing fronts.
Launch:
Launch is available just east of the intersection of CA Route 99 and Oroville Dam Blvd. W., on the north side of the road.
Hazards:
The cold water released from Lake Oroville necessitates the use of a wetsuit, even on hot days.
Wind & Water Data:
- Description:
The Afterbay, engineered to warm the cold water released from Lake Oroville before it flows onto croplands, offers excellent kiting opportunities in the fall, winter, and spring, under north or south winds. With its shallow bays, walkable shorelines, and light waves, it's a great location for learning. Despite strong winds being common in the Sacramento Valley, particularly in the spring, there are few viable kitable bodies of water, making the Afterbay the most dependable.
Launch for north winds is accessible by turning north on a gravel road at the east end of Hwy 162 bridge. For south winds, you can launch along the south side of 162 just east of the bridge, at the Larkin Rd boat launch at the southeast corner of the lake, or off Hwy 99 at the far northwest corner. The "Lake Oroville" wind sensor on ikitesurf, situated at the Oroville airport 3 miles east, provides accurate readings for south winds, but usually reads 5-10 mph slower for north winds. Please note that the water can be cold, especially at the north end where it is fed from deep waters from Lake Oroville.
