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Written by: Lake County News Reports

Published: 20 September 2008

Created: 20 September 2008

Last Updated: 20 September 2008

Clouds, cool and a bit of rain dramatically changed conditions on Clear Lake this week. We’ve had some overnight temperatures in the 30s and the daytime highs have been in the 70s. The water has cooled to the 70 degree mark. The fishing reports have been rather mixed, but one thing is certain: The fall change is under way.

The bass report has changed dramatically, but the specifics haven’t been meted out yet. What we’re hearing is that the morning top water feeding on bait fish has slowed dramatically. The baitfish themselves seem to have moved on from where they’ve been hanging out.

Anglers are reporting more suspended bass and a bite that last well through the morning and right on into the afternoon. We’ve been edging this way for a couple of weeks, but it looks like the big shift for fall has arrived. Look to shallow- to mid-depth running jerk baits, lipless crank baits and jigs as your main offerings. Live minnows should be ramping back up into full swing now too. We’ll keep you posted as this bite stabilizes … For now, it is safe to say that things are definitely improving!

Crappie anglers too are feeling encouraged by the onset of fall weather. We’ve had a couple of crappie anglers who have been buying up our medium minnows with regularity, but they won’t talk much about where they’re fishing or what kind of numbers they’re seeing. One could speculate, however, that one who is going through minnows is catching fish … I’d be looking to the deepest holes and fishing them slow. We anticipate (and maintain hope) that the crappie bite will open up nicely in late October or early November.

The catfish have been consistent and cooperative all year. Soak your favorite cut baits or crawlers. Enjoy your time at or on the water. Keep us posted with your results or better yet, bring your catch to the shop for a Braggin’ Page picture.

Bob Rider is owner of Lakeshore Bait and Tackle in Clearlake. Rider can be reached via telephone at 707-994-FISH (3474) or on the Internet at www.994Fish.com.

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Written by: Editor

Published: 19 September 2008

Created: 19 September 2008

Last Updated: 19 September 2008

MENDOCINO NATIONAL FOREST – Road construction will begin Monday, Sept. 22, on road 24N01 on the Mendocino National Forest, just west of the Thomes Creek crossing, forest officials reported Friday.

Over the next month, through mid-October, the road will be closed intermittently for repairs Monday through Friday. The road will be open on the weekends.

With fall beginning and more visitors – including hunters – coming to recreate and enjoy the forest before winter, visitors are asked to use caution in this area during the week as well as on weekends. Signs will be posted in the construction area.

Crane Mills, a private landowner in the area, will be working on both Forest Service and their private land as part of a road maintenance agreement. The road is located on the Grindstone Ranger District, west of Corning and Paskenta.

For more information, please contact the Mendocino National Forest at 530-934-3316 or visit www.fs.fed.us/r5/mendocino.

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Details

Written by: Editor

Published: 17 September 2008

Created: 17 September 2008

Last Updated: 17 September 2008

 

 

 

CLEAR LAKE STATE PARK – “Chick Flick – Birds courting, mating, nesting and feeding young,” will be featured at the Visitor Center auditorium at 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 20.

This is first showing of a new 37-minute DVD by Dr. Ron Goor. His work provides an inspiring look into the lives of local bird species, like the killdeer, as well as species in other areas of the U.S. and other countries.

The viewer comes away with a greater understanding of the complexities in the lives of birds. Dr. Goor has visited Lake County and was inspired by what he saw here.

Note that the correct Visitor Center hours for September will be Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with shorter hours on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

While in the visitor center, check out the exhibits. Of special interest in the gift shop, are “fold” cards for easy identification of birds, insects and flowers, great for both children and adults.

On Sunday, Sept. 28, meet at the visitor center ramp at 8:30 a.m. for a nature walk led by Val Nixon.

There is no entrance fee to the park for participating in programs, walks or visiting the museum.

Join the supporters of Clear Lake State Park Interpretive Association at A Wild Affair in Your Park from 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Oct. 4. Help with the additional funding needed as you witness the ground breaking for the Education Pavilion to be built across from the visitor center.

This is an opportunity to show your support for this great new addition to your state park and also have a very enjoyable time. Reservations are required.

This event will showcase local wines, cuisine, musical talent and the outdoor adventures that the future pavilion will provide. Reservations for the event are $35 per person. Place your reservation now by calling 279-4395.

 

Clear Lake State Park is located at 5300 Soda Bay Road, Kelseyville.

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