Clear Lake in trouble?

DanIsaac · Post by **DanIsaac** » Mon Aug 11, 2014 4:17 pm

Clear Lake in trouble? Below are my personal opinions, concerns, and questions.

If you’re a bass fishing enthusiast I would say yes. Below is an article posted by another
Western Basser, and I could not pass up the opportunity to ask a question or two, or perhaps three.

Below are excerpts I pulled from the main body of the article but please read it in its entirety for yourselves and draw your own conclusions.

My question to the “Bass Fishing World”, be it FLW, BASS, WON Bass, ABA, BBT, Future Pro, Triton Owners, dozens of outstanding bass clubs, and all of the involved anglers. There were 132 authorized tournaments as referenced in the article below, most, or at least a large majority of which have gone out of the Konocti Vista Casino. Why? Why do we as bass fisherman continue to patronize the very organization(s) which are, at least in my opinion, trying to end “Bass Fishing” as we know it here on Clear Lake?

Konocti Vista is indeed a part of the Big Valley Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians referenced in the article below, and whether it is direct or it is in-direct, the referenced organizations are in-deed coming after the bass. Am I the only one that sees this as crazy? I know about contingencies, free rooms, meals, etc etc etc. However, I think it’s time that we as bass fishing community say “no more”, at least until we see where this is all really going. At least that’s my opinion.

Will it actually happen? I have no idea. One more question then. Is it really worth taking a chance? Does anyone on this site really believe this is just about the hitch? If so, you really better study up on the “Center for Biological Diversity”. Let’s see, how many questions is that?...... Ok, I’m done. Please read the article below and become educated with regards to spending your fishing dollars though! Appreciate it!

Advocates for the hitch hailed the commission’s action, calling it long overdue.

“It’s questionable whether they are going to recover,” said Sarah Ryan, environmental director for the Big Valley Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians, one of three tribes represented at last week’s commission meeting.

Clear Lake, voted the third-best bass fishing lake in the United States, drew anglers to 132 authorized bass tournaments last year, according to a state Department of Fish and Wildlife assessment of the hitch’s condition.

Bass are “voracious predators” of hitch that congregate at the mouth of tributary streams during spawning season, Miller’s group said in its petition to protect the species. Hitch and bass were among the 15 species of Clear Lake fish and shellfish recommended for limited consumption because of mercury contamination in a state Environmental Protection Agency advisory in May.

http://www.pressdemocrat.com/home/25107 ... clear-lake

Wolfeman · Post by **Wolfeman** » Mon Aug 11, 2014 4:44 pm

Dan,
I read that article and had the same concerns that you mention.
But, like all things, it's going to come down to the $$$.
How many people go to Clearlake to only gamble? Do the other business owners around Clearlake profit much from the people who come there to gamble?
Or do those businesses get more $$$ from the people who go there to bass fish?

- Wolfeman

clearlakeoutdoors · Post by **clearlakeoutdoors** » Mon Aug 11, 2014 4:55 pm

The Bass and the hitch have lived together in the lake for over 100 years . I don't know that they can say the bass are the problem. The biggest issue is the drought and the hitch haven't had a good spawn for three years. Four years ago the lake was full of small hitch and it takes them four years to get to spawning size.There are more catfish big enough to eat a full size spawning hitch (ive seen spawning hitch that were 16-18 inches)than there is bass. Then there is the Grebes, Herons, Pelicans , Ospreys and Cormorants that all feed on hitch. First thing they want to do is repair the spawning streams. We all need to get together and make sure they don't focus on the Bass.
Dave

DanIsaac · Post by **DanIsaac** » Mon Aug 11, 2014 10:16 pm

Wolfeman wrote:Dan,
I read that article and had the same concerns that you mention.
But, like all things, it's going to come down to the $$$.
How many people go to Clearlake to only gamble? Do the other business owners around Clearlake profit much from the people who come there to gamble?
Or do those businesses get more $$$ from the people who go there to bass fish?

- Wolfeman

Gentlemen, I agree with you both. However, my point/opinion is that "facts" will have little to nothing to do with whatever the final decision ends up being, and we as "bass anglers" and "bass organizations" should tell the tribes we will no longer contribute to our own demise by patronizing their facilities, be it hotel or casino, until we see where this ends up. Thank you, no thank you!

Personally, I'd love to see a coalition between anglers, the tribes, and county officials, but it will never happen. The Center for Biologic Diversity will make sure of that I'm certain. Radical environmentalism is not the answer to this problem. Some common sense just might help though. Time we exercise some.

Furthermore, I suspect there is far more at play here than just the "hitch". There are millions of dollars in grant monies up for grabs here if the "hitch" do go endangered! so don't think for one minute that isn't a driving force as well.

Absolutely stream restorations need to occur, but do you really think it will end there? Bass have already been identified as part of the "non-endemic" species problem, "voracious predators". However, all of the aforementioned bird life is considered NATIVE to the area. Thus, whether they are a contributing factor is basically irrelevant as far as USFW is concerned, as they are native.

In closing, with regards to county officials, and local businesses? Heaven help us! IMHO they haven't got a clue! Anytime I bring this up, I get "that will never happen"! This is why I am so sure it most certainly will...not rocket science, just some good ole common sense.

mark poulson · Post by **mark poulson** » Tue Aug 12, 2014 6:14 am

Dan,
I find myself reluctantly agreeing with you.
Just like ethanol, and mtbe before it, were developed to replace lead in gasoline with the best of intentions, the results have been a disaster.
When politicians rush to judgement because they are afraid to be branded as "do nothings" poorly informed and thought out decisions always follow.
And when politicians, who are swayed by special interest groups who make campaign contributions, are allowed to make environmental policy, instead of the scientists who actually know what they're talking about, we get self-serving policies that hurt instead of help.
If the DFW biologists were allowed to come up with a plan to protect the hitch, the first thing they would do is stop the upstream pollution of the water coming into Clear Lake by the very people who are pushing to demonize bass as the big culprit in the demise of the hitch.
And the second thing they would do is end the drought!!!!

FranklinV · Post by **FranklinV** » Tue Aug 12, 2014 9:58 am

The answer in my opinion is TOO MUCH!!!!!!!!!!
Too much grapes, too much growing, too much pollution dropped in the tributaries, too much natural spawning habitat taken, too much water going south. Heard of a HITCH HATCHERY? The hitch have been around for many moons and survived, thrived, and spawned. Now the conditions have changed a little bit due to TOO MUCH!!!!!!
TOO Much People walking on this earth and nothing will be the same no matter what they try to do, damage is done and only going to get worse. Enjoy it while it lasts because nothing is forever. Even the rain and seasonal patterns have changed.
How is the shad population doing in Clearlake?

mark poulson · Post by **mark poulson** » Tue Aug 12, 2014 10:36 am

FranklinV wrote:The answer in my opinion is TOO MUCH!!!!!!!!!!
Too much grapes, too much growing, too much pollution dropped in the tributaries, too much natural spawning habitat taken, too much water going south. Heard of a HITCH HATCHERY? The hitch have been around for many moons and survived, thrived, and spawned. Now the conditions have changed a little bit due to TOO MUCH!!!!!!
TOO Much People walking on this earth and nothing will be the same no matter what they try to do, damage is done and only going to get worse. Enjoy it while it lasts because nothing is forever. Even the rain and seasonal patterns have changed.
How is the shad population doing in Clearlake?

"Dust in the wind"

DanIsaac · Post by **DanIsaac** » Tue Aug 12, 2014 2:25 pm

Franklin,

With all due respect, and I think you know me. My issue isn't necessarily with the tribes. I'd love as I suspect most anglers would, to see the hitch come back strong, for obvious reasons. It would be a win win as they say for everyone involved.

Unfortunately, once the hitch go endangered, and they most likely will according to all of the "experts", eradication of non native predators will have to be addressed by law as part of the Endangered Species Act. Then again, I guess "catch and kill" tournaments wouldn't be all that bad, and please do not tell me that would never happen. Catching and the mandatory keeping of all non native species has happened all across these United States at one time or another, with a number different of species. I witness it every year on some of the lakes I fish up north to this day!

So, again my problem with all of this is the way it has been done, but you tell me the grant monies are not a consideration in all of this and I will take your word as good. You would know being a member of the tribe,
and your word is good enough for me.

With regards to Too Much. Sure, there's too much, too much, too much, or perhaps, TOO MANY TOO MANY TOO MANY groups trying to suck the resources dry. However, that in no way justifies what is about to occur, whether now, or in the future, and it certainly doesn't justify the continued "doing business as usual"
with Konocti Vista, at least in my opinion.

If we as anglers do not let the Casino know this is not OK, and that we will not continue as a group to do business with them as is, perhaps more rational thinking might have a chance. Just my opinions, so perhaps I'm crazy?

Either way, this becomes more and more enraging each time I let myself get drug into it, so I'm out. Hopefully, those reading this will at least take some time to think about it......Peace out!

kraetzer · Post by **kraetzer** » Tue Aug 12, 2014 3:51 pm

Well, I really loved the convenience of the konocti casino/hotel/launch but in the future I'll definitely not use it untill i have the fealing that the tribe stands by us bass fisherman and we see some action.

Tight lines,

mark poulson · Post by **mark poulson** » Wed Aug 13, 2014 5:27 am

FranklinV wrote:The answer in my opinion is TOO MUCH!!!!!!!!!!
Too much grapes, too much growing, too much pollution dropped in the tributaries, too much natural spawning habitat taken, too much water going south. Heard of a HITCH HATCHERY? The hitch have been around for many moons and survived, thrived, and spawned. Now the conditions have changed a little bit due to TOO MUCH!!!!!!
TOO Much People walking on this earth and nothing will be the same no matter what they try to do, damage is done and only going to get worse. Enjoy it while it lasts because nothing is forever. Even the rain and seasonal patterns have changed.
How is the shad population doing in Clearlake?

Franklin,
Since it always seems to boil down to money, did the politicians ever ask the opinion of the local tribe of Native Americans before they had the casino, and enough money to make contributions?
A snake is a snake, and they will bite you whenever it suits them in the future, just like they ignored you until you had enough money to make you worth listening to in the first place.
A healthy Clear Lake, which includes a healthy hitch population, hasn't been a concern until the drought took away the safety net of abundant water and how it diluted everything. Now the effects of upstream pollution and stream bed degradation are too strong to be overcome.
If the object is to safeguard the hitch population, let the DFW biologists run the whole show, instead of just having them implement political decisions.

Rich hamilton · Post by **Rich hamilton** » Wed Aug 13, 2014 7:32 am

So to answer the basic question 'is Clear Lake in trouble?"

YES

Bsapp · Post by **Bsapp** » Thu Aug 14, 2014 12:25 am

So Rich you wanna tell me how Bass and Bass tourneys affect Hitch population? I'd love to hear your explanation. 25 tourneys a year? Why don't we just shut down the lake and then you and the Birdwatchers and the kayakers and the Sierra club all throw a big friggin party. Lake in decline? Please the number two Bass lake in the nation? Clearlake is an incredible ecosystem that thrives it's full of life. The hitch habitat has been affected by drought and by habitat being destroyed by agriculture and business. Off limits months? So we can all stay off the lake so the hitch can spawn? .........Radical! Gimme a break.

Rich hamilton · Post by **Rich hamilton** » Thu Aug 14, 2014 8:31 am

I won't give you a break I will just collect your entry fees the next time we fish against each other

Good to hear from ya!

Rich hamilton · Post by **Rich hamilton** » Thu Aug 14, 2014 8:40 am

BS,

I guess I need to answer your questions. So like I stated the problem with Clear lake is more than hitch or habitat. Does that make sense? Lake county has an economic problem, we could discuss that all day. Clear lake has a runoff and sewage problem, we can discuss that all day as well.

The WEST COAST has a tournament organization problem, we can discuss that all day as well. We can banter all day but my instinct and intuition forms my personal opinion that Clear lake is in trouble in many ways.

So once the state stops burning I will see you out on the water preparing for Bob's marine and the FLW. Hope to see you at the FLW. (If there is enough water )

another issue...

Bsapp · Post by **Bsapp** » Thu Aug 14, 2014 10:34 am

Alright Rich good stuff. I just couldn't resist giving my nickels worth on this topic. We can all agree that we are concerned about the what DFG and the state are gonna put together to preserve the hitch. Hopefully some big rains and habitat restoration will do the trick. Bass fishing pumps alotta money into the economy up here. My biggest fear is the special intrest groups slipping in (under the guise of caring about the hitch) and putting more regulations on fishing and boating. I guess a lot of us are guilty of thinking it'll never happen.

Rich hamilton · Post by **Rich hamilton** » Thu Aug 14, 2014 12:28 pm

BS,

You are right on. I have family and friends in lake county and it breaks my heart to watch what is happening there. Between Clear lake and Berryessa are some of my greatest memories. As far as the spawn goes common sense does not prevail and it has nothing to do with local folks. Sometimes to fix something and get a lake back on a proper cycle you have to help it along. Between fish mortality rates (temperature and lack of proper release) and pressure clear lake has been beat up. I am just looking to give the girl a little break to get back on track!

Turkeyman · Post by **Turkeyman** » Thu Aug 14, 2014 4:21 pm

Any time that the Center For Biological Diversity is involved there will be trouble. The hand writing is on the wall and we all better take notice. "It will never happen" has ruined too many things to count in just a few decades that I can remember already.
Habitat degradation has been the downfall of many species and in my opinion outdorsmen, both hunters and fishermen have usually been the ones to get the train back on the track. Does the millionaire from the city with the lakefront house who has a dock with a ski boat and jet skies there care about hitch,bass or carp? Probably not.Is he going to do anything about improving spawning habitat? Probably not. It will be us if we can all get united to right the train because as already noted it will be a win win for us.

DanIsaac · Post by **DanIsaac** » Thu Aug 14, 2014 10:38 pm

Gentlemen,

It's awesome to see that there are some discussions taking place regarding this post.
However, my question(s) was not whether there are actually issues here or what the causes are, as it is obvious that there are many. That's the problem, the issue at hand and the answer to my questions
alway gets convoluted and fractured by all of the associated side issues.

Again, my question is do we as the "bass fishing community" actually think it makes sense to continue patronizing the entities which could actually careless about bass fisherman, except for wanting their
recreation dollars?

I'd urge each that reads this thread to really think about this. Are the facilities at KVC convenient?
Absolutely, but in my opinion that's no excuse, and personally, I think all of the organizations that continue to use it as tournament headquarters should be called out for doing so, This IMHO borders on CRAZY! You all know who they are, so let them know where you stand.....I guarantee if the "bass fishing community comes together and says, "no more", it would certainly raise some eye brows for sure. Would it stop it? Probably not, but it just might prevent this from going down a road of no return.

The unfortunate thing is we do have media resources in the fishing industry along with tournament orgs which should be on our side, yet you hear nothing from them, nothing. It's just business as usual, free room/meals=poor judgment. It's not like there aren't other facilities around the lake which could be used by any tournament org, they just wouldn't be free, and there probably wouldn't be as many contingencies.

So why don't we hear anything from the orgs and media? I have no idea, but I suspect it is the old "head in the sand" syndrome. Better not to say or do anything, heaven forbid don't stir the pot, this will pass!
It certainly is unfortunate, but nobody wants to touch this subject as it really is a powder keg. Trust me, I haven't made any friends with all of this, just the opposite. However, as someone who is in the industry I cannot help but feel a deeper responsibility to do my part, I felt obligated to speak out. My hope is that others that make a living in/on this sport will do likewise, take a position and do so soon. We can make a difference, we don't have to just roll over and give up!

Anglers, please speak out, even if it's only on this thread. There are people watching. Industry people,
WE ALL need to do the same, and please don't think for one second USFW or CDFW is on our side.
We're on our own here folks, but I repeat, WE CAN make a difference.

sladehouse · Post by **sladehouse** » Fri Aug 15, 2014 6:11 am

FISH AND GAME CODE
SECTION 1740-1743

1740. This chapter shall be known as the Black Bass Conservation
and Management Act of 1980.

1741. The Legislature hereby finds and declares that it is the
policy of the state to preserve and enhance black bass resources and
to manage black bass populations to provide satisfactory recreational
opportunities to the public.

1742. The Legislature further finds and declares that the black
bass management program components specified in this chapter are a
continuation of the department's existing warmwater fisheries
program, and, as such, shall be funded from existing department
budgetary resources.

1743. (a) The department's black bass management program shall
include, but not be limited to, the following components:
(1) The department shall determine the angler harvest of black
bass populations and shall recommend to the commission the changes in
angling regulations for black bass that would be necessary to
prevent or correct overharvest.
(2) The department shall consider recommending to the commission
catch and release regulations for black bass, including minimum or
maximum size restrictions and management for trophy-sized black bass
in some waters.
(3) The department shall consider the suitability of the many
different species, subspecies, and strains of black bass when
management programs are formulated.
(4) The department shall improve shoreline habitat for black bass
in waters where insufficient habitat exists and shall encourage
reservoir operating agencies to carry out shoreline habitat
improvement projects.
(b) For the purposes of this section, "black bass" means fishes of
the Centrarchidae family.

This was passed by the state legislature in 1980. the DFW fulfills their requirements under the act by designating 1 trophy bass lake in each of the 6 areas.So at these lakes when you catch a bass over 10lbs you get a little certificate from the DFW. wow sounds like they aren't really following the law now does it. Since the CBD (nazis) often sue the DFW under CA state laws for not fulfilling them, my idea is to contact the pacific legal foundation (the only people fighting for our causes) and file a lawsuit against the DFW acting on the behalf of a non-profit i set up.

mark poulson · Post by **mark poulson** » Fri Aug 15, 2014 6:16 am

Dan,
I read the article, and it didn't make any negative reference to bass, other than the one "voracious predator" line. So far, it seems like the tribes are trying to pressure the State to so something about both habitat degradation and water supply, so I don't think they are the ones to boycott.

DanIsaac · Post by **DanIsaac** » Fri Aug 15, 2014 9:26 am

sladehouse wrote:FISH AND GAME CODE
SECTION 1740-1743

1740. This chapter shall be known as the Black Bass Conservation
and Management Act of 1980.

1741. The Legislature hereby finds and declares that it is the
policy of the state to preserve and enhance black bass resources and
to manage black bass populations to provide satisfactory recreational
opportunities to the public.

1742. The Legislature further finds and declares that the black
bass management program components specified in this chapter are a
continuation of the department's existing warmwater fisheries
program, and, as such, shall be funded from existing department
budgetary resources.

1743. (a) The department's black bass management program shall
include, but not be limited to, the following components:
(1) The department shall determine the angler harvest of black
bass populations and shall recommend to the commission the changes in
angling regulations for black bass that would be necessary to
prevent or correct overharvest.
(2) The department shall consider recommending to the commission
catch and release regulations for black bass, including minimum or
maximum size restrictions and management for trophy-sized black bass
in some waters.
(3) The department shall consider the suitability of the many
different species, subspecies, and strains of black bass when
management programs are formulated.
(4) The department shall improve shoreline habitat for black bass
in waters where insufficient habitat exists and shall encourage
reservoir operating agencies to carry out shoreline habitat
improvement projects.
(b) For the purposes of this section, "black bass" means fishes of
the Centrarchidae family.

This was passed by the state legislature in 1980. the DFW fulfills their requirements under the act by designating 1 trophy bass lake in each of the 6 areas.So at these lakes when you catch a bass over 10lbs you get a little certificate from the DFW. wow sounds like they aren't really following the law now does it. Since the CBD (nazis) often sue the DFW under CA state laws for not fulfilling them, my idea is to contact the pacific legal foundation (the only people fighting for our causes) and file a lawsuit against the DFW acting on the behalf of a non-profit i set up.

The real problem is, should the hitch be listed as "endangered", which is the next step, The Federal Endangered Species Act will take precedence over any and all State legislated law.

DanIsaac · Post by **DanIsaac** » Fri Aug 15, 2014 9:33 am

mark poulson wrote:Dan,
I read the article, and it didn't make any negative reference to bass, other than the one "voracious predator" line. So far, it seems like the tribes are trying to pressure the State to so something about both habitat degradation and water supply, so I don't think they are the ones to boycott.

Mark, I wish it were as simple as a State issue. It is not. The Tribes, Chi-Council and Center for Biological Diversity are pushing to have the hitch listed as "endangered" but in order to do so there are preliminary steps which need to be taken. This is merely a preliminary step along the way!

Thanks for reading it though! Dan

mark poulson · Post by **mark poulson** » Fri Aug 15, 2014 9:46 am

Thank you Dan for following this issue so closely, and keeping us all so well informed.

Rich hamilton · Post by **Rich hamilton** » Fri Aug 15, 2014 11:28 am

Dan,

I just crashed your thread out of my own frustration because the resource is in trouble.

eagle123777 · Post by **eagle123777** » Fri Aug 15, 2014 1:42 pm

I do agree with Dan, I don't like to support people who may end up destroying the recreation of one of my favorite lakes to camp and fish. I don't participate in tournaments any longer except the Triton tournament in Oct and I don't support the casinos when I am fishing clearlake, but I do have a question. With the closure of Konocti harbor where do you suggest the tournaments conduct their tournaments, I know clearlake pretty well after 20 years and I don't know of another place with the facilities available to hold a tournament. If the TD's had that info maybe something could be done.

DanIsaac · Post by **DanIsaac** » Fri Aug 15, 2014 5:09 pm

eagle123777 wrote:I do agree with Dan, I don't like to support people who may end up destroying the recreation of one of my favorite lakes to camp and fish. I don't participate in tournaments any longer except the Triton tournament in Oct and I don't support the casinos when I am fishing clearlake, but I do have a question. With the closure of Konocti harbor where do you suggest the tournaments conduct their tournaments, I know clearlake pretty well after 20 years and I don't know of another place with the facilities available to hold a tournament. If the TD's had that info maybe something could be done.

Actually tournaments did just fine back before the KVC, and those were the days of 125+ boat team tournaments, most of which went out of the Skylark, or a combination there of up north. Clearlake also has the senior center which is available and has also been used in years past. Like I said, it may not be convenient but it can be done.

I see Kent is having a guest on this weekend to discuss this issue as well. I'm curious what he has to say, all be it I do not trust anything I hear out of CDFW these days, but I will listen and try to do so with an open mind.

There is one question I would love Kent to ask though. If CDFW cares so much for the resources here in Clear Lake, why do they permit 130+ events on this body of water per year, that's nearly 3 per weekend, and why do they do so without spreading them around the lake, especially in summer?
Ok, I know, that's two questions! Could it be the 130 times $$$$? NAAAAAAH!

george · Post by **george** » Fri Aug 15, 2014 5:20 pm

To me it does not make since for the tribal community or any other organizations to want to shut down bass fishing at Clear Lake!
Why would any group; lets say the owners/operators of Konocti Vista casino build a hotel and put millions of dollars in a marina to want to try and shut down the fishery?
Why would the Chamber of Commerce put tens of thousands of dollars in marketing this as one of the best fisheries in the country and putting on bass tournaments want to shut down this fishery?
The bass fisherman brings in millions of dollars in revenue to these communities from hotel rooms, food, fuel, tackle shops to playing the casinos during the evenings after a day on the water.
The DFG would not want this fishery to be shut down and I know there are a few marine biologist who if given the opportunity could put a very good assessment of Clear Lake in place and give a clear picture of whats going on.

I think it has more to do with is we have a thing called a drought happening on the west coast right now and with the lake levels down you are going to have the spawning areas drying up which is going to effect the bass, blue gil and hitch populations.
I really think that when someone starts yelling "the sky is falling" more then a few folks panic and react in a knee jerk fashion and can make some negative policies just from being ignorant to the facts.

The Chamber of Commerce of these communities who make a living off the lake are not going to stand by and let anyone shut down their livelihood without a huge fight!

So my thoughts are, once we get back to full pool and this ecosystem is back to doing what it does best; a nursery for wildlife and fish, we will see the hitch population take off again and the bass get back to producing at full capacity and we all will be fat and happy until the next wave of pessimist come to the forefront!
Maybe I am naive and a bit of a eternal optimist but I don't think anyone is going to bite the hand that feeds them as when the water is high and the gettin is good the tribes will all make money, the business's all make money, the bass and catfish get fat and the Hitch still get eaten! But the Hitch I believe will spawn and produce offspring year round, at least that is what a marine biologist told me!
It would make more since that a outside organization might want to put a negative spin on fishing and tournaments because they think Hitch are people too!

George

supermat · Post by **supermat** » Fri Aug 15, 2014 9:25 pm

george wrote: The Chamber of Commerce of these communities who make a living off the lake are not going to stand by and let anyone shut down their livelihood without a huge fight!

George, I wish this was true.
If you follow any of the local politics at all, the lake is near the very bottom of a long list of agendas in Lake County.
From everything I can see and read, the county truly believes that grapes are their future. As a whole they are shockingly misinformed about the lake. In my opinion, Lake County does not value Clearlake as a major economic resource. As a whole, fishermen and their loud boats are viewed as a nuisance.

With that in mind, for the lake to survive as a productive fishery, anglers need to get involved.

Clearlake is currently ranked as the #2 bass fishery in the nation (and the #1 largemouth fishery!) and our tackle shops struggle to keep their doors open. Does that make any sense at all? California anglers are FAILING at Clearlake. They are failing to support the lake, support the tackle shops, hotels, etc, and from all appearances, when they do support it they're directly lining the pockets of the people working to destroy the bass that we are there to catch. (The Casino)

Is the drought affecting Clearlake? Sure it is. Its a little low. Compared to every other major body of water worth fishing in this state, its doing awesome! There's plenty of water, you can safely launch, the fishing is still great! (even better than last summer)
The bloom is the best I've seen in years. Heck, its so clean I went swimming the other day when it got warm. Despite how great the lake is doing, and to the dismay of all the local shops, there is virtually no one taking advantage of it. Misinformation has been spread that the lake is too low and it couldn't be farther from the truth. Last weekend I had a great day on the water and only saw 5 other bass boats all day. In addition to that there were MAYBE 15 other pleasure boats. That's not right!

Anglers are failing, the county is failing, and the lobbyists are running rampant during the lapse.

-Matt Allen

DanIsaac · Post by **DanIsaac** » Fri Aug 15, 2014 10:04 pm

Thank you Matt, I was beginning to think I was going nutz! So now I'm checking out on this after this post. At least I'm not the only one!

Absolutely, this has nothing to do with the drought.....and unfortunately, the Chambers around the Lake,
while perhaps well intended really have no idea. All the County seems to be interested in at this point is the possibility of the influx of "grant monies" which could be coming into the County. Ever hear of "cake and eat
it too".

Fisheries Biologists? Seriously? When was the last time any State agency did anything to enhance any fishery in this State, let alone Clear Lake, and don't say the "salmon". We have lost not only quantity but quality as well in our fisheries. Our Striper fishery is virtually non existent, be it the Delta, Bay, Coast, or San Luis. Inshore rockfish, halibut etc etc etc. We now get excited when we see someone catch an 8 or 10 lb striper. Really?

Just ask a SoCal angler, I'm sure they would love to explain how their warm water fisheries are doing .....how about MPLA's. Do we really want to rely on the CDFW or our State Game Commission to speak for us? Who do you think developed the mess down south......Unfortunately, this is now a politically charged Department which IMHO places political correctness before anything else. I'm not referring to the agents on the ground, rather the policy makers!

Anyways, like I said, I'm out! As Matt said, please get involved and at least say "no more"!

DanIsaac · Post by **DanIsaac** » Mon Aug 18, 2014 4:44 pm

One final comment.......

I promised to listen to the radio broadcast of this past weekend and I most certainly did. I suggest everyone
go to the archive on this site and listen for yourselves. Having done so myself, I stand by my previous position with no change.

The point is not what happens with California Fish and Wildlife, rather what US Fish and Wildlife decides.
The Feds have the final say if the hitch does go on to be listed as "endangered", which is exactly what the Tribes and Center for Biological Diversity are pushing for. In his final statement, Kent's guest tells you exactly that, in HIS own words. Also, note the language and reference to "Adobe and Kelsey Creeks". You don't think that's a pre-cursor do you?

I'm NO EXPERT fellas, but I do know what I've found in the course of my research and questioning. Furthermore, I listened to not one but two Konocti Vista Casino commercials prior to said CDFW interview. Really? Transparent? I don't think so!

Everyone reading this should now go and listen, then decide for themselves. Just remember, California Fish and Wildlife may recognize the importance of this fishery, but the FEDS are a whole different deal......Anyone hear of the "spotted owl"....or when they said they would never shut down the logging industry because of one bird? California did not, but THE FEDS DID!

kb · Post by kb » Mon Aug 18, 2014 7:24 pm

Thanks for listening to the interview with Stafford Lehr and just to clarify one thing Dan I did not put two commercials for KVC in front of this interview just for this weekend and in fact these two commercials ran 20 minutes prior to the DF&W interview and they have been a regular advertiser on my show for over 3 years now never missing a week. The tackle stores, other resorts, restaurants, wineries or tournament orgs don't advertise in spite of the fact we do a weekly Clear Lake report (no other lake gets that) to positively promote the fishing, conservation and news on our most popular bass lake. I would be more than happy to spread the love around the lake if you know of anyone that would like to work with my show and in fact would be happy to pay a commission or swap additional time for your great reel repair business (not that you need any more work)

On another note if you have a question for the DF&W chiefs they will be on the air live and in studio with Sep on California Sportsman this Saturday from 7-8am. This will include Stafford Lahr, Dan Paragary, Mike Karion and one or two more. You can send your questions to sep@seps.com and I will tell him to keep an eye out for one or two from you.

Are you saying that with an average fish catch of over 3 pounds per fish in tournaments we need to cut back the number of events on Clear Lake? Is everyone in the Lake Co. area that are not just interested in having Clear Lake to themselves after moving up there from other areas on that same page with you....cut back the number of events on Clear Lake is that what you are saying....it was just a couple of years ago that they Fish and Game shot down the proposal to add another event at another launch ramp per day on Clear Lake.

Please send in your questions for this weekends California Sportsman show

Kent Brown
Ultimate Bass Radio

DanIsaac · Post by **DanIsaac** » Tue Aug 19, 2014 3:38 pm

Well, we'll just to agree to dis-agree Kent, and no I don't want the whole lake to myself, rather I see the abuse of this resource on a weekly basis, and it borders on ridiculous especially in the summer when mortality rates soar. Add, little to no oversight when it comes to small non-sanctioning body events such as Turkey shoots, Club events etc etc. and it's a real mess. Heck, they rarely show up to a big event unless it's one particular Warden or a Biologist on rare occasion. So, yes, when I witness violations of protocols at numerous events, with like I said, little to no oversight, it concerns me. It simply makes me sick to witness all of the dead fish we have to see at the ramps on a Sunday or Monday morning just because permitted users do not return their fish out the required distances from the docks, as required by their CDFW permits.

As for the number of events, the only issue I have is the number of events that go out of one end repeatedly, especially in summer. It cannot be good for the resource as witnessed again by the ridiculous, after the fact mortality rates. Why can't events be spread east, west, north, south, in order to minimize the negative impacts of returning fish?

Finally, with regards to KVC, if I sounded like I was making that accusation, I was not. My point is, as you clearly stated, they have been a loyal advertiser for a number of years. My point of view on the other hand is motivated out of concern for the fishery, nothing else, and this fishery is not what it once was, despite the claimed 3 lb plus average weight.

Which brings us back to my original point. IMHO we should not be patronizing those who are threatening this fishery in anyway shape or form. Chi-Council, BVRanceheria, or Center for Biological Diversity. None could care less about bass fishing or bass fisherman, except that they want to be able to eat the cake and keep it too, and as long as we are stupid enough to keep giving our fishing dollars to them, they won't change their attitudes or positions.

In closing, I respect the fact that you defend your sponsors,I really do, but how about the resource. Who's going to defend it?

kb · Post by kb » Tue Aug 19, 2014 4:26 pm

Dan any time you think I can help you in regards to the resource of Clear Lake I would be happy to discuss with you. I understand the frustration when you see dead fish. I run one tournament on the lake each year, use the CL Bassmasters Live Release Boat for each day, schedule the flights out, use only one dock for the weigh in to keep control and have been told by locals, wardens, biologists, anglers and one particular lake co. outdoor writer that we run one of the best events and do a great job with our fish handling. We are very conscious of it when we are up there and thanks to the Nor Cal Bass crew we have never had an issue. I know some have!

I try to push the anglers fishing minnows on barbless hooks on the show all winter, push proper fish handling and most importantly direct people to fish Clear Lake as it is such a great fishery.

Hope to see you soon and I appreciate your concerns for Clear Lake Dan......

Kent Brown

Larry Hemphill · Post by **Larry Hemphill** » Tue Aug 19, 2014 9:08 pm

I have been reading and occasionally contributing to the forum for the last 12 years. Most of time - the longer the thread - the more crazy the responses become. I thought all of you did a great job and put forth sound arguments - AND - stuck to the subject!! Congrats! I also have feelings and observations since I have fished the lake much longer then most. The overall "bite" has declined somewhat, and especially the size - those wonderful specimens over 8 to 10 lbs. Clear Lake SHOULD be rated lake#2 in the nation - or - maybe #1. Unfortunately, the 10 to 13+ pound bass comments are somewhat historical now. If and when the lake fills again, those days may return. These toad bass need a lot of oxygen and summer tourneys I'm afraid claim their victims, if not a few days later. I think the most unfortunate event in this discussion was the closing of the Konocti Resort and Spa. I know there weren't a lot of tournaments held there, but enough to restock the middle of the lake occasionally. I think the bass are well cared for in all major tournaments. The problem is: where they are released - is their new home - in the "north 40!" The deepest water up there is now around 20 to 24 feet. Talk about a crowded neighborhood!!! Spotted bass might say - "it's crowded up here - let's look for a new home down south!" Not largemouth - they are homebodies, and local real estate is nearly sold out!

supermat · Post by **supermat** » Wed Aug 20, 2014 3:46 pm

Larry,
Thank you for adding your perspective to this discussion. I agree with you on most of your points. Getting those bass back to deep water is critical. These fish cannot survive the long swims, up north they don't even have the option. It was great when you could drop them right in to the depths of Konocti.
The only point I do not agree on is those 10-13 lbers. I've seen a large upswing of true double-digit to teener bass in the last 5 years. Obviously they're not easy to catch but it seems that when we cross the magic barrier I'm seeing more 11.5-13 lber than 10.0-11.5 lbers. For whatever reason the true giants of the lake are getting bigger. I couldn't be happier with the recent developments in the fishery. Deeper water would be great but they're thriving as is.
That said, I have a world of respect for you. As you know, when I was a kid we fished with you a great deal and I've not forgotten that. You taught me to spoon and dropshot at Collins, and you helped my dad catch a few bigguns.

If you ever want to talk about those big bass I'm happy to have a private conversation about it.
Thanks for everything you've done to grow and promote Clearlake over the years.

Marc · Post by **Marc** » Wed Aug 20, 2014 6:11 pm

Fish numbers and size will always change in any body of water. That is simply how fisheries biology and ecology works. Sure, recreational fishing can and does have an impact, but rarely makes a significant difference despite people's perceptions. Although I do not have the experience most of you have with Clear Lake, I see no signs the fishery is in deep trouble from tournaments or recreational fishing.

On the other hand, if you want to fish for bass on Clear Lake in the future, then you had better not ignore the Center for Biological Diversity. I spoke about this the first time it was publicized that they were pushing to list the Clear Lake hitch. This group is powerful, has a loud voice, and the legal representation and tenacity to accomplish their goals.

Forget about every other issue regarding bass on Clear Lake, and pay attention to what they are doing. Your time will be better spent. And trust me, if bass anglers point fingers at each other about problems with the bass fishery, those comments will be used against us when the decision to eliminate bass will be considered.

If bass anglers spent half as much time properly identifying our problems, and worked together instead of arguing with each other, we could accomplish a lot. Our real enemies are groups like the Center for Biological Diversity, and we ignore them at our own peril.

DanIsaac · Post by **DanIsaac** » Thu Aug 21, 2014 8:10 pm

Thanks for taking the time Marc. Could not agree more...It WILL definitely take ALL of us to stop this!

Dan

2833-34497 · Post by **2833-34497** » Tue Aug 26, 2014 6:13 am

So the question becomes how do fisherman help gear things towards a true comprise by improving habitat for the Hitch which would help the health of the lake overall, as well as other species. Has a group been formed fishermen can get behind? I asked these questions in another forum also where this topic is being talked about.
The reason I ask these questions is if you read the link on the last paragraph you want to help make sure controlling invasive species doesn’t become the main focus IMHO, but the last thing since restoration would help the whole lake more benefiting everything IMHO.

http://www.biologicaldiversity.org/news ... -2013.html

Wolfeman · Post by **Wolfeman** » Tue Aug 26, 2014 10:48 am

I can't believe I'm going to do this, but here it goes.

I've been on these forums for a lot of years, and we have this type of thread come up on a regular basis and we wring our hands and say 'Whoa is us'. And the thread moves to the 'We need to get organized and fight this!!!
But we never do get 'organized'.
Why? Because we have not political force.
How does the NRA succeed? How does the Biodiversity group succeed? For that matter How does PETA succeed?
They do it by 'Lawyering UP'. And their able to do that by having a large pool of dollars, and people who organize and promote their organization. And their org has one political voice and one mission. Ever try to get a group of bass fisherman to agree on something? Good luck.
And where are the sponsors and manufacturers? Why don't they seem to care that bass fishing might cease to exist on Clearlake (and if that happens the dominos will fall).
Do you think the NRA gets any money from Remington, or SmithWesson? You bet your *** they do.

And why does this never come up at the iCast shows??? I would think that would be a great place to start to build a true Fishermen's organization.
Grass-roots will only take you so far. If you don't have the lawyer-dollars you aren't going anywhere.
- Wolfeman (not listening to his own advice and taking this way too seriously)

Marc · Post by **Marc** » Wed Aug 27, 2014 9:27 pm

In a few cases like fighting a Ban on Lead fishing tackle in Washington State (proposed by Loon groups including the Center for Biological Diversity), the State bass fishing organizations (BASS and TBF) got involved, and it helped. So did the ASA and other organizations, and especially a couple of key individuals. Tournament organizations in Washington like Northwest Bass also got involved.

I am a charter member of BASS, and issues like this used to be what the Federation and BASS National took seriously and organized the grassroots to take a stand, just as you are asking about. I would challenge the California BASS and TBF to get the ball rolling on Clear Lake.

And yes, I have been saying for a long time we need to organize and have our own team of attorneys. Wish I knew some attorney's that fish for bass.

mark poulson · Post by **mark poulson** » Thu Aug 28, 2014 2:21 pm

If you want a SoCal example of how lake closure/limitations have a ripple effect, just look at how the restrictions on boats at Casitas contributed to the demise of J&T Tackle, one of the premier tackle shops on the West Coast. Sure, Ted has other issues, but there is not doubt that losing Casitas anglers' business contributed.
Bass fishing isn't an elitist sport, and doesn't attract higher income, toney folks with dollars to waste on weird "causes", like banning lead in fishing tackle because a few waterfowl wound up with lead shot in their craws.
It's an everyman's sport, and, to me, that makes it even more important to protect.
I doubt there will be a fund raiser at the Mark Taper Forum for bass fishing any time soon.
Rich people will always be able to afford their vices. Regular working folks with minimal discretionary income can't spare that kind of money, so we do need to pay attention, and look out for the sport we all love.
If we're not careful, eventually they'll see us as a threat to something they want, and we'll be marginalized, or pushed out of the way, just like every group of people who ever stood in the way of their definition of progress.

DanIsaac · Post by **DanIsaac** » Thu Aug 28, 2014 3:48 pm

2833-34497 wrote:So the question becomes how do fisherman help gear things towards a true comprise by improving habitat for the Hitch which would help the health of the lake overall, as well as other species. Has a group been formed fishermen can get behind? I asked these questions in another forum also where this topic is being talked about.
The reason I ask these questions is if you read the link on the last paragraph you want to help make sure controlling invasive species doesn’t become the main focus IMHO, but the last thing since restoration would help the whole lake more benefiting everything IMHO.

http://www.biologicaldiversity.org/news ... -2013.html

NO, I just want people to realize who is really behind what is taking place here......and was asking, why as a society does the "bass fishing community" continue to support them. That's it? Pretty simple question actually, and I think at least in my opinion, we know the answer.....IMHO, it's all about money and perks, plain and simple.

Personally, it appalls me that any organization related to, or profiting from this sport would continue to have anything to do with them. But that's just me I guess? Read the link in the quoted post for yourselves......Dan

Tags

Notice