Clear Lake and other local fishing waters will be busy places this weekend. On Saturday morning the crappie derby kicks off at Redbud Park in Clearlake. The derby should draw a good number of fishermen because the crappie action is just shifting into high gear. Held in conjunction with the derby is a kids fishing contest operating out of Redbud Park. The kids contest is free and there will be a load of nice prizes.
Both shore anglers and boaters have been cashing in on the excellent crappie action. For those fishing from shore, Lakeside County Park is kicking out good numbers of crappie. The State Park is another excellent area. Some of the crappie being caught are weighing nearly 2 pounds.
Bass action
Bass fishing is also moving into high gear as the bass start to move onto their spawning beds. Most of the local fishing guides report their clients are catching from 15-25 bass per day. Just about every type of lure/method is working and they range from live minnows, A Rigs, drop-shotting a plastic worm, crankbaits and Ned Rigs. Both the north and south ends of the lake are producing good numbers of fish. One of the better areas has been from Henderson Point to Clear Lake State Park.
Trout action
Trout grab the spotlight for anglers this weekend. The stream trout season opens Saturday and most of the local fishermen are heading to the East Branch of the Russian River for the opener.
The Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) is scheduled to stock the stream this week. The stream is extremely popular among fishermen and there a large crowd is expected for the opener. To reach the fishing area, take Lake Pillsbury Road to Potter Valley off Highway 20. There are a number of places where you can park and walk down to the stream.
Most of the trout fishermen will be working the deeper pools while using either salmon eggs, Power Bait or nightcrawlers. Mepps spinners and small crankbaits are effective as well. The daily limit is five fish and there is no size limit.
Upper Blue Lake should draw a good number of trout fishermen. The lake was stocked last week and both boaters and bank fishermen should do well. The lake is also providing good bass action.
Other lakes
After being closed for nearly six months, Indian Valley Reservoir’s boat ramp is now open. There is no power or water at the campgrounds. The road going into the lake is in decent shape but just a little dusty. The lake offers excellent bass action. In fact, catches of 20-40 fish a day are common. There are also crappie and even some trout. One of the best parts of visiting the lake is the abundant wildlife. Eagles, ospreys and grebes all can be found scattered around the lake.
Lake Pillsbury in another lake worth a try. The bass action has been excellent and there is also good trout fishing. Fishermen have to use Potter Valley Road to gain access to the lake.
Turkey hunting
Turkey hunters go into the final week of their season, which closes May 5. The final week should be the best of the entire season. The toms are chasing the hens and some of the public areas are providing good hunting. One hunter reported hunting the Cache Creek Wildlife Area and he not only bagged a good gobbler but he saw four other toms.
