Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass:
Good to great Bass fishing as the lake is showing early signs of the Fall transition. The baitfish are starting to migrate into the bigger coves and are currently in about twenty feet of water, dragging the fish that were on the main lake into these areas. Top techniques this week remain the same, Ghost pattern C3 Flukensteins, Lucky Craft Pointer jerkbaits in the 78 and 100 sizes, dropshot rigs and live Shad have all been very consistent for weeks. Smallmouth are on a tear and can be caught on just about any of the usual techniques. Topwater action improved as the fish and bait move shallower, with the mornings and afternoons providing the most action. Flukes, Lucky Craft Sammy 100’s and small poppers are all getting bit by fish up to four pounds.
Striped Bass:
Surface “boils” were hit and miss this week with most of the schools still spread out in the main-lake areas. The boils are only lasting twenty seconds at most. Heavy Northwest winds mid-week, unusual for this time of year, saw three to five foot waves sink the surface algae, taking the baitfish and Stripers with it. The best strategy remains – stay in a good area until they pop up within casting distance of the boat. Good topwater baits are the Lucky Craft Sammy 100 in Ghost Minnow or Aurora Black, Lucky Craft Gunfish 100’s in the same patterns, and pearl white Zoom Flukes or Ghost C3 Baits Flukensteins.
Bluegill:
Bluegills continue to provide fast action in the shallow ends of coves like Utopia and Old SS around submerged brushpiles and overhanging trees. A bobber and a red worm will provide great fun for the kids. Keep the hooks and worms on the small size.
Lake Conditions:
Surface Temp 78 a.m. – 83 p.m.
Water Clarity – 5′ to 15′
Lake Level: Full and Stable
Minor Algae Bloom
NEW Lake Hours as of August 19th:
Open @ 6:30 am
Off Water @ 7:00 pm
Park Closes @ 7:30 pm
* There is mandatory possesion of a CA Boaters Card upon entry for anyone 60 or younger towing a boat.
YOU WILL NOT GET IN WITHOUT IT!
Jim – www.661Fishing.com
