Shasta Lake, located in northern California, is one of the prime locations for trout fishing in the Western United States. Here’s my detailed report based on a recent fishing trip. 

Location: Shasta Lake’s main tributaries - Sacramento River, and McCloud River are the hotspots. We found various sections of the McCloud Arm and Sacramento Arm produced excellent results.

Fish Species: Shasta Lake’s ecosystem primarily supports Rainbow Trout, German Brown Trout, and Chinook Salmon. This time of the year, we primarily targeted Rainbow Trout.

Time: Morning hours and late afternon were most productive. 

Bait: Rainbow trout favored small spoons, while the German Brown Trout showed a partiality to lures such as bigger spoons or Rapalas.

Technique: Trolling at varying depths produced good results, with the best success found at 5-10 feet deep during mid-day.  The fish are biting close to the surface. 

Equipment: Light to medium tackle was effective. We used a trolling rig with line of 10-15 lb test. A downrigger was utilized to reach deeper waters for larger trout but was the least effective. 

Fish Activity: Trout activity was noticeably high around the shorelines and open water areas. Moderate bite periods from trout was evident, indicated by tight lines and bent rods. The largest catch recorded was a 5 lb Rainbow Trout.

Water Conditions: Water conditions were ideal with a slight chop on the water surface. Water temperature at the surface was around 50 degrees Fahrenheit, and slightly cooler at depth.

Overall, Shasta Lake is definitely a solid option for trout fishermen this year. With its pristine waters, excellent trout population, and awe-inspiring surroundings, it promises a fantastic fishing experience. Always remember to check the local fishing regulations and secure the necessary fishing license before your trip. 
 

Captain Jeff Goodwin