Weather may be cold, but the bite isn’t

Holidays are here and quickly moving by. Let’s not forget that just because its cold out doesn’t mean that you can’t fish. Let’s take a closer look.

New Melones: The current elevation at the water is 877 ft. That’s a 76ft difference from last year but we are still 206ft from full. Trout can be found in the top 10’ of water. Troll 130 plus back from the boat using speedy shiners, excel, needle fish and kastmaster. Bass are healthy and in a cold-water pattern. Drop shotting, spooning and umbrella rigs are working great.

Camanche: Trout and crappie bite is on. Crappie is a sweet white meat that is really good eating. Top lining 150’ to 200’ back from the boat with grubs and garlic scent power eggs will work great. Mt. Lassen trout have been continually released into the lake and pond. Deliveries of trout will come each week through the end of April. Trolling for trout using speedy shiners, Rapalas and excel spoons. A slow troll will work best in these temps.

Delta: Sturgeon Fishing is excellent with Salmon Roe and nightcrawlers working great. With low water temps and poor tides the bite turned off. The water level is high and muddy with lots of debris. Put your time in and it will pay off. Fish the incoming tide.

Stripers should start coming in with the water. Lots of shakers with big fish in between. live blue gill from the delta works great as bait or shad and anchovies. Rat-l-traps work well along the banks and coves. Trolling with yozui or pline predators, rebels, river 2 sea work great.

Merry Christmas and happy holidays from fisherman’s friend! Now Get out there and catch some fish.