May 26 Fishing Report - Shasta Lake

May 26 Fishing Report - Shasta Lake

Location & Conditions

  • Body of Water: Shasta Lake
  • City / Region: Northern California
  • Date of Report: May 26th
  • Weather Conditions: Warming, likely sunny
  • Water Temperature: 70°F (surface)
  • Water Clarity: Likely clear to slightly stained
  • Water Level / Flow: Not specified

Fishing Overview

  • Overall Fishing Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
  • Target Species: Kokanee Salmon, King Salmon, Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout
  • Most Active Depth Range:
     1. Kokanee: 35–40 ft
     2. King Salmon: 55–65 ft (occasionally as deep as 90 ft)
  • Most Effective Presentation: Trolling
    Best Time of Day: Not specified Successful Lures or Baits Used: Not specified
  • Other Techniques That Worked: Depth adjustments made a difference especially for kings
  • Notable Catches: One of the nicest kings of the week came from 90 feet down

Guide’s Tips & Notes

  • Advice for This Week:
     Now’s a great time to get out on Shasta. The kokanee bite is hot and the kings are active if you dial in the depth. The trout bite is slower but that’s expected to change as water temps rise and baitfish start grouping up.

  • Changes You’re Seeing:
     Surface temps just hit 70°F, and that’s causing a warm-water layer to form. Shad are starting to move deeper and concentrate which sets the stage for more aggressive predator feeding. Expect the trout bite to pick up as this trend continues.

  • Predictions for Next Week:
     The kokanee and king salmon bites should remain strong. Trout action (rainbow and brown) is expected to improve as the lake continues to warm and fish adjust to the deeper thermocline. Shasta should remain your go-to while other lakes like Whiskeytown and Trinity are still lagging behind.

 

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