Generally tough fishing has met anglers head on this week – with one notable exception. A sharp rise in temperature again signals the bass to make an adjustment and causes a slow down. The crappie seem to have noted the same change.

Catfish, on the other hand, are still biting well. We’ve been running in the upper 80s to low 90s all week. The forecast is for the weekend to be only slightly cooler by a few degrees. Looks like plenty of sunshine for the weekend.

What most folks want to know is “How’s the algae?” Our answer is … thick and a bit on the malodorous side (it stinks). Stick to fishing above Monitor Point in the Redbud Arm, the Oaks arm (but not the keys) and the north end to avoid the algae.

On the bass front, slower is better. Try Senkos, finesses worms or live bait for best results. Fish the very early morning hours or late evening and night time to put fish in the boat. Midday fishing is just simply tough. I would stick to dropoffs and rocky areas. You may find a few top water fish – some have. All in all, keep in mind that fishing still beats workin'!

Crappie? We’ve seen large schools moving through a few key areas. Four Poles was one of ‘em. Things were better there last week than this week, but my hunch tells me that the school is just undulating through that area. Try the poles – try the deeper standing docks in that area. Place your offering in that 15- to 20-foot depth with light line and light weight. Finesse will be the key with these guys with the warming weather.

Catfish just seem to be playing right along. They aren’t bothered by the warmer weather. They’re hungry and they’ll eat just about any of the key baits. Live minnows, mackerel, shrimp, crawlers – all should do the trick well.

Enjoy the warms sunny weather this weekend. Stay safe on the water. Stop by and say a quick howdy while you’re in town.

Bob Rider owns Lakeshore Bait & Tackle, 14913-D Lakeshore Drive, Clearlake, telephone 707-994-FISH (3474). Visit the store online at www.994Fish.com .