What’s old is new again. The fishing report hasn’t changed much, but the HEAT is on here on Clear Lake. Daytime temps have been hovering in the 105-108 degree range. Water temps are in the low 80’s. The water’s clear and the wind has been pretty calm this week. Here’s the report:

Bass are biting well all over the lake and on a variety of baits. My buddy and I took our sons our fishing Tuesday. We put the kids on nightcrawlers and let ‘em at it. They caught fish until we ran out of worms. Switched them all over to whacky rigged Senkos on drop shot rigs and they were right back at it. Jigs in purple and brown with big creature type trailers have been doing well for many anglers. There’s a frog bite in the evenings and a good popper bite in the morning. Fish from 5 to 25 feet depending on your preference.

Crappie action is running strong. We’re not talking about a fish anywhere and everywhere scenario, but if you’ve got a mind to hit some of the key spots you’ll likely find yourself some nice specks. Minnows have been the first choice, by far, over mini-jigs. Most folks are finding crappie throughout the day at Konocti, The Four Poles and over in Jago Bay. And, most folks are fishing deep water for best results.

The catfish bite is just flat out good right now. Take a good chunk of mackerel, set it up on a big hook with a sliding weight, and fish through your favorite spots. I’ve talked to guys that have fished by Konocti – while listening to the live concerts – and done well. I’ve talked to guys that have still fished by Austin Park and done well. I’ve talked to some folks that have drifted Bass Alley and done well. Now’s just a great time to wet a line for cats on Clear Lake.

With any luck our catfish bite will hold and we’ll get into some more great fish during our next CatFest. We’ve slated Aug. 25th as our next CatFest date. These non-contest events are open to the public (that’s the point, actually) and generally a whole lot of fun. We’ll plan on kicking things off around 4 p.m. and fishing until about 11 p.m.

We’ll announce more details as the date draws nearer, but mark your calendars now so you don’t miss out!

Bob Rider owns Lakeshore Bait & Tackle in Clearlake. Visit his Web site at www.994fish.com or call him at 994-FISH (3474).

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