New to this spot? Check out California Fish Plants’ full guide, complete with Google Maps, top gear recommendations, and insider tips.
This week, our team at CDFW, along with myself, planted 2,100 pounds of healthy rainbow trout at Tioga Lake. For those who haven’t had the chance to visit, Tioga is a great spot for both seasoned anglers and beginners. The lake is stocked regularly, and this fresh load of trout should have anglers excited for the weekend. Whether you’re planning to fish from shore or a boat, this plant will provide plenty of opportunities for great catches.
Looking at the weather, temperatures have been bouncing between the high 80s to low 70s, perfect for a day out on the lake. Keep in mind, though, that winds are expected to pick up slightly, ranging from 6 to 8 mph. While it’s nothing too serious, wind can affect your line, especially when casting. A little extra weight on your setup can help you maintain control. Overall, these conditions should make for a great few days on the water, so I’d suggest taking advantage of this prime window.
For those bringing gear, it’s always a good idea to have some Kastmasters or other lightweight spinners handy. These work wonders for trout in clear mountain lakes like Tioga. Don’t forget to also bring some powerbait or worms if you plan on setting up along the shore. The trout are going to be active, especially after a fresh plant like this one.
Armando Duran works for CDFW and frequently shares videos of his team’s fish planting efforts across California. You can check out more of his work on Instagram @armandoduran2323.
