Temperatures over 100 degrees all week have kept many anglers off the water. The hot still air has resulted in the algae returning to the south end, further complicating things for anglers trying to fish the shores of Clearlake and Clearlake Park.

Still, those fishing for catfish have been having a great time. Bass and crappie reports are down this week (less fishermen = less reports). The weather guessers have us in the low 100s through the weekend and cooling into next week. So … Your one “hot tip” for the weekend is: SUNSCREEN!

Bass anglers are finding their best results in water 18 to 25 feet deep. The deeper primary points like Wheeler, Frazier, Henderson and Monitor all come immediately to mind for starting locations.

Start with good deep water in areas that are clear to fish without confronting the algae problems that the smaller and shallower coves are experiencing. For tackle, use Senkos or Brush Hogs. Drop shotting a finesse worm or live bait will also do the trick.

Fishing the weedy north end of the lake is a good bet for night anglers or those folks fishing the very early morning light. Be prepared to contend with the heavy aquatic weed growth – the fish love it and use it as cover. Use a push pole or drift to navigate the shallow water quietly and not deal with entangling the prop on your trolling motor.

The crappie bite slowed abruptly when the high temperatures set in early this week. This may be a temporary slowdown strictly related to the temperature change or it could signal the drop off of the crappie season for the summer. Stay tuned … We’ll keep you posted in next week’s report for any changes.

The catfish action continues to be sensational all around the lake. Boaters and shore anglers alike are doing well. Mackerel and crawdads are my top sellers this week. Clams, chicken livers, anchovies and night crawlers are all on the menu too.

In our events and classes news this week, our hunter safety class runs through the weekend. Lakeport Police Department is sponsoring another hunter safety class at the end of July. And, we’re hoping to bring you another class here at the south end of the lake late in August. Also in August, the Clear Lake Coast Guard Auxiliary is offering a boating safety class here in our store on Aug. 15.

For a complete schedule of classes, visit our Web site at www.994Fish.com , call 707-994-FISH (3474), or drop by the store.

Have a fun and safe weekend on Clear Lake. Drink plenty of H2O and don’t forget the sunscreen!

Bob Rider is owner of Lakeshore Bait & Tackle, 14913-D Lakeshore Drive, Clearlake.

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Written by: Lake County News Reports

Published: 17 July 2009