LAKE OROVILLE: Many Lake Oroville State Recreation Facilities were damaged by the Bear Fire, now known as the North Complex West Zone fires. Bidwell Canyon Marina and Lime Saddle Marina were not damaged, and the dam is under no threat. The launch ramps remain closed. Houseboat owners only are permitted at Lime Saddle and Bidwell marinas.
FEATHER RIVER: Salmon fishing is slow, with a brief bite at the Outlet Hole at daylight, followed by slower fishing the rest of the day. Overall fishing has been slower than recent seasons on the Feather.
TRINITY RIVER: Fire danger has limited access on the lower Trinity. Guides are reporting good salmon fishing from Junction City up to Lewiston. MagLip plugs are working well. The river is low and clear, with flows of 433 cfs at Lewiston, 451 cfs at Douglas City, 470 cfs at Junction City and 578 cfs at Hoopa.
AMERICAN RIVER: Salmon fishing is slow because of low, warm water. Expect the fall-run kings to begin arriving soon. Spinners are catching a few fish near Discovery Park.
SACRAMENTO RIVER, Verona to Colusa: Salmon fishing remains slow, but fish are being caught on jigs and spinners and plugs trolled downstream. Expect greater numbers of kings as the fall run begins to move in from the ocean. A few keeper stripers and lots of shakers are being caught near Verona. Fishing for catfish is good at night near Knights Landing.
SACRAMENTO RIVER, Sacramento: Overall salmon fishing is slow, with a few fish being caught near Freeport on jigs, and trollers taking a few kings on spinners or FlatFish between Miller Park and Garcia Bend. Spinners are also taking a few fish from shore in the Sand Cove area.
SHASTA LAKE: John Boitano of Phil’s Propeller reported the good topwater bite continues. He said Choppos and Whopper Ploppers have been the better performers. Also, finesse techniques are picking up, with bass anywhere from on the bank to 35 feet. Choose your favorite plastic and get after it. Cinnamon, green pumpkin and electric shad colors are all working. Spooning is another option. Catfishing is hot. No trout report was available. The lake is very low, exercise caution when operating a boat as there are unmarked navigation hazards.
The weekly fishing report, compiled by Western Outdoor News, highlights the best angling opportunities in the north state.
