Some very fall-like conditions are developing and things are changing with the weather, the lake, and the fishing. There's a solid bass bite keeping bass anglers happy throughout the day. The catfishing is as good as we've seen it in years. The lake looks (and smells) a whole lot better than it has all summer here in the south end. The fishing, lake conditions, and weather are working well together to support our favorite Clear Lake activity.

Bass are being caught in good numbers on topwater plastics such as the Horny Toad, buzz baits, and soft jerk baits. Spooks and Frogs are also switched on. Deep water finessing continues to be good too. Look for bass in shallow water that is adjacent to deep water. Bass are crashing silverside minnows after corralling them into the weeds and mats during the late morning and early afternoon hours. There are a whole lot of 6 and 8 inch bass that'll whack your baits - giving you that tug-tug sensation. You'll quickly follow with a hook set that yields nothing. If you're getting the tell tale tug-tug and swinging for the bleachers with no results it isn't you - it's really aggressive tiny bass. Change your location, depth, or offering to get away from where the baby bass are schooled.

Catfish action is as hot as it comes on Clear Lake. It is great to see folks from all over doing so well and having fun like they have the last few weeks. Catfish will gladly dine on mackerel, live crawdads, anchovies, shrimp, clams, minnows, or crawlers. Of course, they may not be quite so happy to meet the frying pan... You decide. Deep water and shallow water alike have been working for cats. Private docks and public docks are producing. Boaters are producing too. Find your favorite catfish hole and soak your bait.

We're drawing Tuesday, September 1st for the Savage Predator Hunter ..223 rifle & scope package that the Lake Friends of the NRA is giving away. There's still time to buy your tickets - I have mine! Give us a call at 707.994.FISH or come by Lakeshore Bait & Tackle - tickets are $10 and will be on sale until 5pm Tuesday 9/1/09. Proceeds from the raffle benefit the Lake Friends of NRA fund raising efforts.