Attention anglers: Cachuma Lake Recreation Area is calling. The lake held the first of its five rainbow trout plants of the season on Nov. 4, releasing 4,000 pounds of fish into the near-capacity waters.
The rainbows came from the Calaveras Trout Farm, and at least 500 pounds were two-pound fish (16 inches long) or better. The rest were half-pound to a pound (12 inches long).
There will be four more plants throughout the season: on Dec. 13, Feb. 17, March 16, and April 13. During the winter months, trout fishing is considered good from the shore or from the Mohawk Loop fishing pier and in Harvey Cove. Also, because of Cachuma Lake’s size, boat fishing gives anglers greater opportunity to fish otherwise inaccessible areas of the lake. Trout are being taken at 20 to 30 feet with nightcrawlers and powerbait, and by trolling with needlefish.
Cachuma Lake is currently open to boats from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., and shore fishing is open 24 hours a day. A California fishing license is required for anglers age 16 and older. The cost is $14.04 for a single-day license, $21.86 for two days, and $43.46 annually. Licenses can be purchased at Cachuma Marina and Boat Rentals, along with bait, tackle, and gas. Park entry is $10 per day, and boat entry is $13 per day.
For boating regulations, launch requirements, current camping, and general information, call 686-5054 or visit cachuma.com.
This article appears in Nov 17-24, 2011.