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The Almanor Fishing Association reports a little bit of everything as far as recent conditions go, from sunny flat calm to big wind, clouds and rain. Inconsistent conditions have made for an inconsistent bite.
The Lake Almanor water level is on the rise, currently sitting just below 4,492 feet, or about 2 feet from full. Hamilton Branch has seen dramatic improvements in water clarity flowing into the lake. Water temperatures are currently running in the mid to upper 50s, ticking up on the sunny days.
Bug hatches are coming on strong all over the lake and fish tailing at the surface can be seen taking advantage of the fresh food supply. The trout are now widely spread throughout the entire lake, said AFA. Action for trollers is happening at a variety of locations around the lake, from the dam to Dorado and even up by Big Springs. As the water color has improved so has the bite.
Both sides of the peninsula have also been giving up fish, as is the west shore from Rocky Point to Almanor West, giving anglers plenty of locations to visit.
Trout have been caught on a wide variety of offerings, with lots of options for anglers. Worms, plastics and trolling flies along with fast trolled spoons have all produced fish recently. The surface to 30 feet seems to be holding the bulk of the active fish. The catch continues to be a mix of rainbows and browns, along with a few salmon. The smallies are active as well in the shallows.
Bait fishermen have been netting a few fish at various locations including Dorado, the dam and Red Bank. Fly anglers suspending nymphs under indicators are tempting the fish that are keyed in on the bug load coming off the bottom. Traffic on the lake is increasing as more rentals and resorts are opening up.
Boat ramps and docks that are in and useable include:
- Canyon Dam U.S. Forest Service West Shore
- Plumas Pines, with limited docks and gas available
- Almanor West
- Rec 1
- Rec 2
- Multiple resorts in Big Cove, with gas available
- Hamilton Branch Home Owners Association
AFA says to look for warmer temperatures to expand the bug hatches and ramp up the bite.