Wow! What a difference the cooler weather makes. There’s more activity – in the store, on the street and on the lake. It sure is nice when the weather it isn’t pushing the mercury to the 100 degree mark.

The algae is breaking up and moving along thanks to the cooler weather, some wind and some additional water moving through the dam on Cache Creek. The catfish bite is still red hot and the bass bite continues to do well in some parts of the lake.

Bass anglers are still working deeper water with finesse gear for best results. Live minnows and crawdads have been doing well for our live bait anglers fishing that deep water also. Most folks fishing shallow water or top water areas are finding limited success.

However, I’ve had a few reports of some guys doing well with frogs first thing in the morning. Once the sun is overhead, that bite is done and they’re moving to deep water again.

Our crappie bite is on summer hiatus. One of my regulars has been watching them on his Aqua Vu and has identified a few areas with structure that are holding crappie and bluegill. Mind you, he’s not fishing them but rather locating them for fall fishing endeavors.

The catfish madness continues. Lots of folks catching lots of fish. Mackerel & crawdads are tops. All of the other baits are in the picture as well. Best depth seems to be 8 to 14 feet near shoreline. Look for areas with some weeds but no algae for best action.

Seats remain open for next week’s Introduction to Handguns class. The class is Thursday evening, Aug. 13, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Cost is $45/person. Register in advance here at Lakeshore Bait & Tackle or by calling 707-994-FISH (3474). We’re running great promotion through the month of August. If you buy a firearm this month, we’ll give you TWO for ONE registration in our Introduction to Handguns class (the class is offered monthly).

Bob Rider is owner of Lakeshore Bait & Tackle, 14913-D Lakeshore Drive, Clearlake, telephone 707-994-FISH (3474) or visit www.994Fish.com .