Compiled by California Outdoors Hall of Fame member Dave Hurley and edited by Roger George, who guides in the greater Fresno area and holds the striper record at Millerton Lake. Photo gallery Show off your success! Share your fish photos and videos with Bee readers. Please share only jpeg images and Mp4 video files. Include “Fishing Report” in the subject line and a full caption and email to sports@fresnobee.com Best bets Don Pedro bass, trout and king salmon are hitting, Monte Smith said. Isabella trout and crappie on a tear, Copes Tackle reported. Pine Flat king salmon delighting anglers, Jim Tartaglia reported. Bass Lake trout still active, Dave Hurley said. Wishon/Courtright rainbows ready to bite, Kelly Brewer reported. New Melones catfish voracious, Kyle Wise said.
Photo by John Baxter. California Aqueduct: Increased Water Exports Lead to Slowed Flows In the northern section of the California Aqueduct, water flows have experienced a noticeable slowdown. This change in the aqueduct’s water dynamics is primarily attributed to the recent increase in water exports directed towards the San Luis Reservoir.
The lake’s water clarity and temperature are ideal for these times, which is why anglers often find success during these periods. For instance, a study conducted by the local fishing association revealed that the average catch during the morning hours was significantly higher than in the afternoon, with a notable increase in the size of the fish caught. In contrast, Lake Norman has seen a shift in its fishing patterns. The lake’s water clarity has improved, but the temperature has risen, leading to a change in the behavior of largemouth bass. Anglers have reported that the fish are now more active during the late afternoon and early evening, a stark contrast to their previous patterns.
The event will feature a 5K run/walk, a 5K bike ride, and a 5K walk/run. The proceeds will go to the Mason Ferrulli Memorial Fund. The first of the five bass tournaments is set to take place on Oct. 12th at Lake Tahoe. This event will be a catch-and-release tournament, where participants will be required to release any fish they catch back into the water. The tournament aims to promote sustainable fishing practices and conservation of the lake’s ecosystem. On Oct. 19th, the second bass tournament will be held at Lake Powell. This event will feature a traditional bass fishing competition with a prize pool of $5,000.
He used a variety of techniques, including fly fishing, spinning, and bait casting. The trout were caught in the lower river, while king salmon were found in the upper river. The fishing conditions were challenging due to the cold weather, but Smith’s expertise and adaptability led to a successful day. The bass, a resilient and adaptable species, are thriving in deeper waters, where they are actively feeding on threadfin shad. This behavior is a testament to their ability to adjust to changing environmental conditions and food availability. The threadfin shad, a schooling fish, provides an abundant food source for the bass, allowing them to sustain their population even in less favorable conditions.
The presence of baitfish schools indicates a healthy ecosystem, as they are a primary food source for larger predatory fish. Bass fishing along ledges or steep bluff walls requires specific techniques and lures. Tubes and plastics on the drop-shot technique are effective in these environments. The drop-shot technique involves suspending a soft plastic lure just off the bottom, allowing it to move naturally with the current. This method is particularly useful in ledges or steep bluff walls where the structure provides hiding spots for bass.
The derby is scheduled for November 17th, and it’s a popular event that attracts anglers from all over. The derby offers a chance to win prizes for catching the largest trout. The Merced River is known for its excellent trout fishing, and the derby is a highlight of the season. The river’s flow rate, while slightly lower than usual, still provides good fishing conditions. The absence of bass tournaments in the upcoming months gives anglers a chance to focus on trout fishing. The club tournaments in November offer a variety of fishing opportunities, allowing anglers to test their skills and compete in a friendly environment.
The lake level is expected to remain stable with no significant changes anticipated. In the realm of fishing, the lake’s drop in elevation to 2,561.07 feet has had a notable impact on the fishing conditions, particularly for crappie. This change in water level has led to a shift in the habitat, making deeper waters more accessible. As a result, anglers have reported excellent conditions for catching crappie in these deeper areas. Specifically, the use of small dagger style mini-jigs has proven effective in targeting slabs over 2 pounds.
The lake’s water level was stable, and the fishing conditions were favorable. Cope’s angling experience at the lake was marked by a fair to good catch rate, particularly for bass fishing.
Lake Elevation Rises, Fishing Conditions Fluctuate
The lake’s water level is expected to rise slightly, but it’s still below normal. The lake’s fishing conditions are influenced by its elevation and capacity. Chicken liver, nightcrawlers, and dip bait are effective for catching catfish. Bass fishing is currently slow, but an upcoming tournament may improve angler activity. The lake’s water level is slightly above its current low point but still below the average.
King Salmon’s Mighty Migration from River to Ocean
The fish are in the river now, and they’re not going to be there long. They’re going to head out to the ocean. King salmon, a prized species in the fishing community, have been making headlines due to their recent migration patterns. Jim Tartaglia, a local expert from Reedley, has been closely monitoring these movements. The king salmon, known for their impressive size and strength, have been observed emerging from the depths of the river, specifically between 90 to 115 feet.
“We were fishing the main lake channel from Deer Creek to just past Lakeview Marina. We were using rolled shad and Brad cut plugs, and we were fishing at depths from 80 to 115 feet.
The bite has resumed with the front moving out. The bite is best in the early morning and late afternoon. The main lake has seen a jerkbait bite in the early morning, which was affected by a full moon and a cool low pressure front.
The lake is a good choice for those looking for a more relaxed fishing experience. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout, and anglers can expect to catch them using various techniques. Trollers can use blade/’crawler combinations, while anglers can opt for Wedding Rings tipped with a nightcrawler behind a dodger. The lake also offers opportunities for catching kokanee, although the numbers are currently low. The reduced boat traffic has made the lake more accessible and enjoyable for anglers. The lake’s stocking program ensures a consistent supply of rainbow trout, providing a reliable target for fishing enthusiasts.
The lake’s water level is stable, and the lake is clear. The lake’s clarity is a result of the lake’s management practices, which include regular monitoring and maintenance of water quality.
The lake is still full of bass, but the bite is slow. In the world of fishing, Wishon Lake stands out as a prime location for anglers seeking a successful catch. Here, the bite remains robust, particularly for those employing trolling techniques. Anglers are advised to experiment with a range of lures, specifically from three to four colors of lead core, Rapalas, spoons, and Wedding Rings. These lures, when tipped with a piece of nightcrawler, can significantly enhance the chances of a bountiful catch.
The fleet is likely to encounter a variety of marine life, including large pelagic species such as bluefin tuna, which can weigh over 200 pounds. The journey will take them from Pioneer Canyon to the Half Moon Bay, a route that offers a diverse range of marine habitats. This journey is not just about the thrill of encountering large marine species, but also about understanding the complex ecosystems that these creatures inhabit.
Rockfish are cooperative and eating a variety of baits. Baitfish are also around in good numbers, so we are getting some nice striper and halibut action. Striper fishing is good with limits being the rule, as well, with some of the biggest fish being caught.
The fish were caught on a variety of baits, including squid, anchovies, and artificial lures. The bluefin were not only abundant but also active, with some fish weighing over 300 pounds. The event was a significant catch for the local fishing community, as bluefin are highly prized for their size and taste. The fishing conditions were challenging, with strong winds and rough seas, but the determination of the anglers led to a successful day. The incident highlights the resilience and skill of the fishermen, as well as the allure of the bluefin tuna, which continues to draw fishing enthusiasts from around the world.
The fish was caught in the waters off the coast of San Francisco, California, and was estimated to weigh around 300 pounds. This catch is significant as it highlights the ongoing efforts of local fishermen to sustainably harvest bluefin tuna, a species that has faced significant population declines due to overfishing.
The counts were up from last week, and the lingcod were the most numerous. The fishing was good, with a few large lingcod caught. The weather was fair, with calm seas and sunny skies.
The fish are generally small, but the potential for larger fish is there. On the Sacramento side, the largemouth bass population is thriving.
Anglers are reminded that sturgeon are a protected species and must be handled with care. The use of barbless hooks is strongly recommended to minimize injury to the fish. During this period, the Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) has implemented several measures to ensure the sustainability of the sturgeon population. These include:
- 1. Strict catch-and-release regulations: Anglers are only allowed to catch and release sturgeon, with a limit of one fish per day. This measure aims to prevent overfishing and allow the sturgeon population to recover. 2.
Cope’s Tackle and Rod Shop’s Fishing Extravaganza:
Oct. 12 Fishapalooza at Cope’s Tackle and Rod Shop in Bakersfield from 10 am to 4 pm. Fishapalooza at Cope’s Tackle and Rod Shop in Bakersfield is an exciting event that brings together fishing enthusiasts and the local community. Scheduled for October 12th, the event will run from 10 am to 4 pm, offering a wide range of activities and opportunities for participants.
The competition was fierce, with each participant showcasing their strength and skill. Bill Kunz, a seasoned competitor, managed to secure the first position with a remarkable weight of 25.33 pounds. His dedication to training and discipline in the gym paid off, as he consistently outperformed his competitors. Mark Corrente, another strong contender, placed second with a weight of 20.77 pounds. His impressive performance was a testament to his rigorous training regimen and unwavering focus.
The Manteca Bassin’ Buddies fishing competition held on September 21st was a thrilling event that showcased the skills and camaraderie of local anglers. The competition was divided into three categories, with Bill Vernon and Brian Muckey taking the top spot in the first category, catching a hefty 10.95 pounds of fish. Their impressive feat was followed closely by Willie and Rick Higle, who managed to secure the second position with a catch of 8.65 pounds. The third category saw Jason and Jake Hopper demonstrating their prowess, landing a respectable 7.70 pounds.
29-30 New Melones – BABC Delta/B and W Resort – Cen Cal Elite Bass Tournaments Sept.
Delta/Big Break Marina – 17/90 Bass Club Delta/Ladd’s Marina – Tri Valley Bassmasters New Melones – Outlaw Bass Club Bass Lake – Kerman Bass Club Nacimiento – Bakersfield Bass Club/San Luis Obispo Bass Ambushers Oct. 13 Lake Camanche – Modesto Ambassadors Bass Lake – Kings VIII Bass Club Oct. 19-20 Camanche – Riverbank Bass Anglers Tulloch – Yak’A Bass Oct. 19 Delta/Ladd’s Marina – Christian Bass League Don Pedro – Cen Cal Elite Bass Tournaments Eastman – Sierra Bass Club Nacimiento – Cope’s Tackle and Rod Oct. 20 Delta/Russo’s Marina – The Bass Hole Millerton – Fresno Bass Club Oct. 26
Delta/Ladd’s Marina – Anglers Press Outdoors Don Pedro – Cen Cal Elite Bass Tournaments For more go to fresnobee.com/fishing.
