LAKE BERRYESSA REPORT 1/22/25
Johnny Feaster:
Water Temperature: 53° to 56°
Target Species: Winter Bass
Fishing Method: Float and Fly
Leader Length: 9 to 11 feet
Fishing Overview: Lake Berryessa is in prime winter fishing mode, and it’s one of my favorite times of the year. Big fish are showing up, and the numbers are looking great as well. The water levels remain high, which is adding to the excitement—things are looking promising heading into spring.
Techniques & Gear:
● The Float and Fly method has been highly effective for targeting winter bass in these colder conditions. For fly selection, the Black Leech and Williams Wagasaki fromNorth Valley Fly Fishing have been producing excellent results.
● A 9 to 11-foot leader is working best to keep your presentation in the strike zone at the proper depth.
Fishing Patterns & Tips:
● Focus on slower retrieves along the banks, as the bass are moving up from deeper sections of the lake. The fish are not holding as shallow as they would during the spring, so be sure to fish further off the bank than usual.
● The second drop-off around 8 to 15 feet is a prime spot. These areas are often overlooked but can hold a lot of fish this time of year.
● Look for steep banks with bold structure. Avoid areas with trees and weeds, as these tend to be less productive in winter.
Bonus Species:
This is also the time when you might encounter Trout while targeting Bass with the float-and-fly rig. A mixed bag of species can make for an exciting day on the water.
Golden Mussel Awareness: Golden Mussels have started showing up in California's reservoirs, and local water agencies are taking action. A quarantine has been put in place to try and slow their spread, with decontamination stations set up at Steel Park and Markley Cove.
Please remember to clean your boat thoroughly, especially if you're moving between different bodies of water, like from the Delta to any freshwater lake. It’s crucial to help prevent the spread of these invasive species.
Overall
Lake Berryessa is shaping up to be an excellent winter fishery. With bass showing up in good numbers and the potential for some big catches, it’s a great time to be out on the water. Focus on slower retrieves along the banks, paying special attention to the second drop-offs where fish are holding. The combination of clear water and strategic fishing techniques makes for a promising season, and with spring around the corner, the action is only expected to improve. As always, remember to clean your boat to help protect the lake from invasive species. Here's to more successful trips ahead!
FeasterFishing.com
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