Lake Almanor Water Levels Rise as Spring Runoff Begins; Trout Fishing Picks Up
LAKE ALMANOR, Calif. — Recent storms that brought low-elevation snow and rain at higher elevations have boosted runoff into Lake Almanor, raising the lake level by about two feet over the past two weeks.
According to the Almanor Fishing Association, the lake currently sits at elevation 4,488.25 feet — just under six feet below full pool.
Tributary streams are still running high from snowmelt. Most have begun to clear, but Hamilton Branch remains extremely muddy, sending heavily stained water into the lake. The murky water is affecting a broad stretch from the mouth of the branch to the tip of the peninsula.
Water temperatures across Lake Almanor are generally in the low- to mid-40-degree range, depending on time of day and location. Trout are currently scattered throughout the lake as they feed on pond smelt.
Fishing activity has been reported along the east shore from Canyon Dam to Hamilton Branch, as well as in several areas along the west shore. Anglers trolling a variety of speeds have been finding success.
Slow trolling — around 1.5 miles per hour or less — with worms, soft plastics and trolling flies in baitfish patterns has been productive. Faster presentations using trolling flies or Rapala-style lures have also brought fish in recent outings. Most catches have come from the top 20 feet of the water column.
The catch has included a mix of brown and rainbow trout ranging from smaller fish to larger specimens. In addition, some anglers have reported catching salmon between 13 and 17 inches in pockets between Canyon Dam and Lake Cove.
Shore fishing has also produced some action in coves along the west shore. Nightcrawlers and “mouse tail” style baits have been among the most commonly used offerings, with anglers mainly catching rainbow trout and occasional brown trout.
The Canyon Dam boat ramp is currently open, though access could be temporarily affected if additional snowfall occurs.
Despite several recent storm cells that brought brief bursts of heavy rain, wind, hail and lightning to the basin, forecasters say a warming trend and more stable weather are expected in the coming days — conditions that could improve fishing on the lake.
Photo courtesy Almanor Fishing Assoc.
