Local fishermen will face tough conditions this weekend on Clear Lake. For all practical purposes the lake is in a condition that will force fishermen to be extremely careful. All but a few boat ramps are closed and there is a 5mph speed limit on the entire lake. There is also a lot of debris floating out there in the way of large trees, piles of brush and other hazards.
Boats can be launched for a fee at Konocti Vista Casino, Braito’s and a few other private ramps. There are also two ramps open at Redbud Park in Clearlake and the Clear Lake State Park ramps are open. The Lakeside County Park and the ramps at the Library Park in Lakeport as well as all the county ramps are closed until the lake level drops to 7.9 feet on the Rumsey Gauge. As of Thursday the lake level was 8.55 feet and dropping very slowly. Predictions are that it will take at least a week for the lake level to drop to the 7.9 foot level and that’s if we receive no more rain.
The toughest conditions for the bass fishermen that do launch their boats is the 5 mph speed limit. They will be limited to areas near their launch site. The sheriff’s boat patrol will out monitoring the lake and will be issuing citations to any speeders. The reason for the 5 mph speed limit is to limit damage to lakeside homes by boat wakes. A bass boat is capable of producing a two or even three-foot wake when it’s going 20 mph.
Most of the lake is muddy but the water is already starting to clear in some areas. The most fishable water is in the south end where there are loads of bait fish. Gary Hill of Kelseyville said there is a lot of bait fish at Henderson Point and in Soda Bay. The old Ferndale Resort is loaded with shad, as is the area around the old Konocti Harbor Resort.
One fisherman reported having excellent success fishing the south end of the lake using an “A” Rig. Despite the limited access and low speed limit the lake should see quite a few fishermen this weekend. The weather is forecast to be sunny and in the 60 degree range. There will also be fishermen prefishing for the upcoming ABA team tournament that is scheduled for Feb. 4.
The number of teams that have signed up for the Lake County Chamber of Commerce bass tournament, that is scheduled for March 18-19, stands at 12. Whereas this may not seem like a lot of fishermen the number will increase dramatically over the next few weeks. Last year the tournament drew 134 teams. Entry forms are available at all the tackle shops. You can also get more information about the tournament by calling (707) 263-5092.
Crappie action has been good in areas where the water is starting to clear. The docks at Glenhaven and Clearlake Oaks are providing decent crappie action. Crappie are also being caught at the state park and at Henderson Point. The muddy water has also stirred up the catfish action for the few fishermen out after them.
Waterfowl hunters close out their season on Sunday. Overall the season has been rated from poor to fair. Quail season also closes on Sunday.
