Catfish were the best game in town, and most people who fished for them were rewarded for their efforts. The narrows, Little Cachuma, and Jackrabbit Flats all produced, with mackerel as well as nightcrawlers the baits of choice. The bass bite is still fluctuating, with most action coming in the early-evening hours. Crankbaits, spinnerbaits and bottom bouncing techniques were taking both smallmouth and largemouth bass in 10 to 20 in the water column. Crappie has been fair at best, but a few anglers in the know were picking up slabs to 3 pounds trolling both the narrows and Santa Cruz Bay. The best lures were CD Rapalas and small spinners such as panther martins or roostertails. Trout fishing was slow, but Thursday, Nov. 1, will be the first 4,000-pound plant of quality Calaveras hatchery rainbows and should set the pace for the rest of the season. Call the marina for a complete 2012-13 schedule of upcoming plants. Bowfishing has slowed a bit, but it’s possible to have a good day with some extra effort.
– Ken Hemer