As October draws to an end the great oaks are losing their leaves and the surrounding vineyards are changing to full fall coloring, the cooler wet weather we’ve been experiencing has left most surprised at the quality of the fishing right now on the Clearest of lakes.
Surprising? Not really as the lake is at its highest level for this time of year since 2012 or so. The Rumsey gauge has the lake at 1.55 and it is rising. The average for the past two years is in negative numbers, so relative to that we are in really good shape, and the fishing is reflecting that. How about a 3-4 lb average for most?
Since early spring we’ve witnessed an enormous amount of bait spread out around the lake, which at times could lend to a tough bite. However, with the rain and cooler weather the bait is finally beginning to ball up and group together and the fish are following them. Thus, the improved crankbait and jig bites. Along with those, the swimbait bite is reportedly gone off as well. Likewise, the shallow bite remains fairly strong as too, with color being the key up close.
What will November bring? Well, I suspect periods of milder weather as November is usually famous for. Colder crisp mornings and pleasant comfortable afternoons. Those who don’t want to deal with the weather should look forward to and take advantage of those days.
Baits; Lucky Craft LV500s, Huddlestons, Trashfish, deep cranks, and squarebilled crankbaits like the Jackall Aska 60 will all produce from this point on, as will a half ounce jig or the infamous a-rig.
Colors; like fall, there’s a myriad of choices, usually shaddy or crawdad patterns, along with the good ole reliable chartreuse/blueback are your best starting points.
Around the lake; The ABA TOC tournament will be taking place this week on Friday and Saturday, and as a result the lake will be quite busy the balance of the week as well, so I’d plan accordingly if possible.
Winter hours; I’d call ahead to check on winter hours which will most likely go into
effect next Saturday night with the coming time change. Bob at Limit Out Tackle reports he will be closing Monday thru Wednesday beginning on Monday, November 7 and continuing through the first of the coming year. Other shops will most likely be adjusting their hours as well so make that call beforehand, and good luck!
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