Skip to content

News

Where the Pros Are Fishing: Mid-Summer Hotspots Across California

Looking for the best bite in mid-summer? We've got the inside scoop straight from the Catch America team. From slab kokanee to monster stripers, here's where our top guides are fishing, what they’re targeting and how you can get in on the action.   Big Browns, Bigger Kokanee – Bryan Roccucci at Bucks Lake Bryan Roccucci of Big Daddy’s Guide Service is wrapping up his brown trout mission at Lake Almanor and heading over to Bucks Lake come August. Why? Because the kokanee bite is going full throttle. We're talking chunky, hard-fighting kokanee, tightly schooled and ready to hammer your gear. These fish are only getting bigger by the day. If you're looking to fill the box and have a blast doing it, Bucks Lake in early August should be your destination. "Bryan is hands-down the best guide on that lake. Period." Rainbows, Kings & Everything in Between – Jeff Goodwin at Shasta Captain Jeff Goodwin is a staple on Lake Shasta and he’s not going anywhere. Over the next month, he’s chasing rainbows, kings, and kokanee. Shasta’s a buffet of options—and Jeff’s fishing the whole menu. It’ll be hot (and we mean melt-your-sunscreen hot), but the fishing is red-hot too. Jeff didn’t even mention the bass or catfish—because he didn’t need to. The trout and salmon bite is that good. Kel shared a memory from a scorcher of a day (115°F!) where he and Gary Morales landed 35+ trout in two and a half hours. “That’s Shasta for you—just find the thermocline and get after it.” Slab Kokanee & Sleepy Giants – Monte Smith at Don Pedro Monte Smith of Gold Country Sport Fishing is locked in on Don Pedro Reservoir and he’s not even thinking about rainbow trout right now. Why? Because the kokanee are absolute tanks. We’re talking football-shaped fish tipping the scales over two pounds. These are some of the biggest kokanee in the state right now and Monty’s got them dialed. Later, when the bite cools off, he’ll pivot to rainbows—which are also world-class at Don Pedro. “Don Pedro is one of California’s most underrated fisheries. Don’t sleep on it.” Trophy Stripers, San Luis Style – Roger George You’ve probably never striper-fished like this before. Roger George is the only licensed guide on San Luis Reservoir and he’s a trophy hunter through and through. This isn’t delta trolling or bay casting—Roger’s using downriggers, swimbaits and plugs to work structure and flats for monster striped bass. Big numbers, big fish, big gear. “He’s got it wired. San Luis is a beast of a lake, but Roger makes it look easy.” The Moving Legend – Captain Kevin Brock You want a salmon slayer? A kokanee ninja? A jack-of-all-fisheries? That’s Captain Kevin Brock. Over the next six weeks, Kevin’s schedule is stacked: Lake Oroville, Bullards Bar, Feather River and even up to Gold Beach, Oregon, chasing ocean-fresh kings in the mouth of the Rogue. The man is a machine—and if you follow his trail, you’ll land fish. “Kevin’s been a full-time guide since the '90s, and the gas station knows him by name.” Berryessa Bragging Rights – Big Nate’s Guide Service Captain Nate Kelsch, aka Big Nate, isn’t budging from Lake Berryessa. And why would he? The kokanee bite is on fire, with bonus rainbows and kings filling out limits. If the kokanee slow down, Nate will shift gears and chase kings—but right now, it’s all about those silvery torpedoes. “Book a trip with Nate and you’ll catch fish, laugh hard and probably learn a few dad jokes along the way.” Steelhead Soul Searching – Jerry Lampkin on the Klamath Captain Jerry Lampkin of TNG Motorsports is taking a well-earned break from Folsom Lake and doing what we all dream of—river drifting for steelhead on the Klamath. Jerry just retired from his day job and is chasing chrome in style, making runs into Oregon and soaking up the scenery along the way. But don’t worry, he’ll be back on Folsom and the Delta when fall rolls around. Bonus Tip: Follow the Guides, Find the Fish Whether you’re after kokanee, kings, stripers or steelhead, the Catch America guide team has you covered. Want to level up your skills fast? Book a trip with one of these pros. You’ll learn more in one day than in a month of DIY fishing. Final Cast Summer’s heating up and so is the bite. Don’t waste time guessing—these are the places, species and guides making waves right now. So grab your gear, line up that trip and maybe even treat yourself to a guided day with one of our legends. Tight lines, friends—and keep an eye out… Cal’s got a few secret spots coming soon. Hit that subscribe button and ring the bell so you don’t miss a cast, a tip or a trophy catch. Thanks for being part of the Catch America crew.

Learn more
Kayak Fishing Safety Gear: 4 Must-Haves That Could Save Your Life!

Kayak Fishing Safety Gear: 4 Must-Haves That Could Save Your Life!

Picture this: sunrise painting the lake in fiery colors, a cool breeze rippling across the water and your paddle slicing through glassy calm. You’re ready to chase fish and make some memories—but before you cast that first lure, there’s one thing you need dialed in: safety. Because nothing ruins a day on the water like finding yourself swimming in it unexpectedly. So let’s talk about the gear that can literally save your life when kayak fishing. Kayak Fishing Safety Gear: Your Lifeline on the Water While hooking big fish is a thrill, staying safe is the real win. Here’s the essential lineup every kayak angler should have on board: Life Jacket – Non-Negotiable This one’s a no-brainer. If your kayak flips on a windy day or you lose balance reaching for a rod, a life jacket is the only thing keeping you from becoming fish food. It might not keep you dry, but it’ll keep you alive—and that’s a pretty solid trade-off. Pocket Knife – Your Quick-Release Plan Keep a pocket knife close, ideally stashed in your life jacket. Picture this: your downrigger snags the bottom while you’re still moving and suddenly your kayak’s getting dragged backward. A quick slice of the line can save you—and your kayak—from going under. Bonus tip? Bring a spare knife in case one takes a dive. Orange Safety Flag – Be Seen, Stay Alive A bright orange flag might seem like overkill until a speedboat barrels across the lake without spotting you. A kayak sits low in the water and can be practically invisible to boaters, especially on busy lakes. That little flag could keep you from becoming a tragic headline. Paddles – Your Last-Resort Lifeline Let’s say your electric motor dies. No problem—you’ll pedal! But what if those pedals jam up or break? Without paddles, you’re just a human bobber waiting for a rescue. Paddles might not win you any speed contests, but they’ll get you back to shore when all else fails. Bonus Tip: Walkie-Talkies Not strictly a safety device, but they sure help. Instead of screaming across the lake to your fishing buddy, a simple “Hey, come over here!” on a walkie-talkie keeps things chill and coordinated. Plus, if you do run into trouble, it’s another line of communication. Safety Gear Why You Need It Pro Tip Life Jacket Keeps you afloat if you flip or fall in Wear it snug—not loose—so it doesn’t ride up. Pocket Knife Cut snags, free tangled lines, emergency situations Keep one in your vest and a spare in the kayak. Orange Safety Flag Makes you visible to boaters on busy lakes Mount it high for max visibility. Paddles Backup if motors or pedals fail Stow them within easy reach. Walkie-Talkies Easy communication across the lake Test batteries before heading out.   So there you have it—the four must-haves that could mean the difference between a great fishing story and an epic rescue tale. Don’t hit the water without them. Stay safe, fish smart and remember: a kayak trip’s only fun if you make it back to tell the tale! Ready to gear up? Check out our kayak fishing safety essentials and keep your adventures rolling!

Learn more
How to Crush Your Next Kayak Trout and Salmon Trip: The Ultimate Kayak Fishing Guide

How to Crush Your Next Kayak Trout and Salmon Trip: The Ultimate Kayak Fishing Guide

Picture this — dawn’s first light is shimmering on Eagle Lake’s glassy surface. Your pedal kayak glides silently through the calm water, not a sound but the occasional splash of a trout breaking the surface. The air is crisp, the water’s cool and clear, and your rod tip twitches with the promise of a big catch. There’s nothing quite like being one with the water, the kayak, and the fish — and you’re about to discover why the pedal kayak is the secret weapon every trout and salmon angler needs. Rainbow Trout: The Pedal Kayak Powerhouse Trout fishing from a pedal kayak isn’t just fun — it’s a game-changer. Whether you’re slicing through tight shorelines or cruising open water, this setup puts you right in the fish’s favorite spots without spooking them. The kayak moves like a stealthy ninja, letting you tweak speed, zigzag, or stop on a dime. And that direct control? Pure magic when you hook into a strong rainbow giving your drag a workout. Key Takeaways: Best Depths: Trout hang near the surface (top 10 ft) in colder months; they drop to 15-20 ft as it warms, sometimes as deep as 60-70 ft in hot summer lakes like Shasta.Recommended Gear: Lead core lines for depth control, divers for 25-40 ft, and downriggers for precise placement. Rod setups designed for kayak use make a big difference. Pro Tips: Keep track of how many colors of lead core line you’ve out to easily return to the “hot spot.” Pedal kayak lets you vary your speed in ways a power boat can’t, improving your hookup ratio. Use a quality landing net with a rubber mesh hoop — less damage to the fish and fewer tangles with trebles. Fun Fact: Pedal kayaks like the Hobie ProAngler 14 are so stable you can bet your life on them, even in some gnarly conditions. Kayak Fishing Safety: Life Jackets, Knives & Common Sense Before you dip a paddle, safety is king. Always wear a personal flotation device — no exceptions. Your dog’s probably a better swimmer than you, but water’s cold and unforgiving, so suit up. A good kayak safety kit includes a trusty line cutter knife (never used but always ready), a way to call for help (cell phone, personal beacon), and your brain—because common sense will keep you on dry land. Key Takeaways: Always wear your life jacket, even if you’re a strong swimmer. Carry a knife with a line cutter for emergencies—tangles happen. If conditions feel sketchy (windy, cold, rough), don’t hesitate to call it a day and hit the donut shop instead. Experienced paddlers can handle strong winds, but respect your limits! What to Wear and Stay Comfortable on the Water Comfort means confidence, and confidence means more bites. Dress smart with layered gear: stocking-foot waist waders over a moisture-wicking base layer, a thermal shirt, and a roomy rain jacket (two to three sizes too big) that fits over your life jacket. Insulated socks and hand warmers keep you cozy on chilly days, and Crocs make deck-walking a breeze. Bonus tip: waist waders beat chest or hip boots when you need to answer nature’s call quickly. Essential Kayak Gear: Rod Holders, Nets & Electronics Getting your kayak setup right can take a minute, but it’s worth the effort. Position rod holders for easy access without cluttering your space — six holders is plenty. Keep your dog’s area clear (Lucy approves). A high-quality landing net with a rubber-coated hoop is a must-have. And don’t forget a fish finder with mapping and waypoint features — fog can roll in fast, and knowing your way back is clutch. Pedals, Propulsion & Why You’ll Love It Pedaling your kayak is like magic — it’s silent, efficient, and gives you hands-free control. The Hobie turbo fins make pedaling effortless, and pedals last for thousands of hours if you treat them right. Electric motors are an option, but they bring registration headaches in some states, and battery life worries on big trips. Plus, pedaling is great exercise and keeps you connected to the water. The Bait Box: Keep It Simple, Catch More Fish Don’t overcomplicate your tackle. Here’s what you really need for successful kayak trolling: Spoons: Trigger Spoons and Trigger Spoon Juniors, in metallic, baitfish, and bright colors. Spinners: Uncle Larry’s Power Spinner and Kokanee Spinner Kit, rigged with worms or double hooks for kings. Soft Plastics: Trout trix minnows, grubs, and worms spiked with scent like Trigger Scent — these babies catch fish worldwide. Night Crawlers: A must-have for slow trolling, easy to rig and super effective. Trolling Flies: Metal Head Fly and Trigger Fly are trophy trout magnets. They mimic baitfish and often catch your biggest fish of the year. Mastering Depth Control: Lead Core, Divers & Downriggers Depth is everything. Trout, kokanee, and kings all stratify by temperature and time of year, so being able to control bait depth is a game-changer. Lead Core Lines: Great for shallow to mid-depth control, easy to measure by color segments. Jet Divers: Floaters that won’t sink if you stop pedaling — perfect for beginners. Downriggers: For precise deep-water placement, great for summer and trophy fishing. Final Words from the Water: Keep Learning, Stay Confident, Fish Hard The biggest secret? Every time you hit the water, be ready to learn something new. Weather, water temps, fish moods — it all changes, and you gotta adapt. Confidence in your gear and tactics turns good days into great days. Forget gimmicks and shortcuts — real skills come from time on the water, patience, and a willingness to keep honing your craft. So, get your kayak rigged, pack your gear, and pedal out to the next great trout or salmon adventure. The bite’s waiting, and the water’s perfect. Now, what are you waiting for? Species Best Lure Types Depth Range Key Pro Tip Rainbow Trout Lead Core, Jet Divers, Downriggers 0-70 ft (seasonal) Track lead core colors to return to depth Kokanee Salmon Spinners, Spoons, Trolling Flies 15-40 ft Use Uncle Larry’s spinners with double hooks King Salmon Large Spinners, Downriggers 25-60 ft Master downrigger use for precise depth   If you want to snag the best gear for your next kayak trip, check out Catch America for rods, reels, lures, and all the essentials. Get out there and pedal into the bite before the season slips away!

Learn more
Springtime Serenity on the Truckee - May 23, 2025

Springtime Serenity on the Truckee - May 23, 2025

Spring has officially hit its stride in the Truckee River basin, and with it comes some of the best fly fishing conditions we’ve seen this season. Whether you're a seasoned local or planning your first trip to these pristine waters, the latest conditions promise excellent opportunities and exciting action on the line. River Conditions: Prime for Casting This week, the Truckee River is flowing steadily, offering a sweet spot of water clarity and volume for late spring. With flows measured at approximately 950 CFS near Farad, CA, and 700 CFS in Reno, anglers can expect stable wading conditions and accessible runs. Visibility remains strong, aided by recent clear weather and moderate temperatures hovering in the comfortable 60s°F range. Mayflies and Caddis in the Spotlight Late mornings and early afternoons are lighting up with hatch activity, making timing a critical component for success. The river is buzzing with: Mayflies – Blue Wing Olives (Baetis) and March Browns are showing strong emergence, particularly around midday. Caddis – Present in sizes ranging from #14 to #18, they’re making regular appearances and keeping fish engaged. Tactics That Work: Match the Hatch Local experts and visiting anglers alike are reporting solid results using a variety of time-tested techniques: Nymphing Indicator rigs with small Baetis (#18) are proving to be effective in riffles and deeper pools. Streamers Bigger flies are productive, especially under cloudy skies. Think movement and silhouette. Dry Flies While more situational, dry fly action has been spotted during active hatches, particularly when there’s a bit of cover from the sun. Spotlight on the Little Truckee River Though running high at about 362 CFS, the Little Truckee River remains clear and fishable. Success here hinges on precision and finesse, with anglers doing well on: Baetis Nymphs  Sizes #18–20 Midge Patterns Always a reliable fallback in technical water Catch America: Your Fly Fishing Guide Resource Looking to elevate your next outing? Catch America offers up to date tips, local insight, and connections to some of the best guides and gear in the region. Whether you’re a first timer or an old hand, we’re here to help make every cast count. Discover more and book your next adventure at Catch America.

Learn more

How to Cash In on the Hottest Bite of the Year

Picture this: It’s dawn, the water’s glassy, and your rod bends double as a feisty kokanee slams your lure. Spring fishing is heating up—here’s where the fish are biting right now and the gear they can’t resist. 1. Kokanee Salmon: The Corn-Fed Frenzy Kokanee (landlocked salmon) are smashing lures tipped with garlic-scented corn in deep, cool waters. These feisty fish fight hard and taste even better. Key Takeaways: Depth Matters: Target 35–70 feet—fish are suspended near bait balls. Lure MVP: Trinidad Dodgers + Uncle Jerry’s spinners (pink/gold work best). Pro Tip: Troll slow (1.1–1.5 mph) to mimic injured baitfish. Subtopic Alert: Kokanee vs. trout? Kokanee have forked tails and red meat—trout are leaner with rounder tails. 2. Rainbow Trout: Follow the Birds Trout are chasing shad near the surface, especially where birds dive. Pro anglers are limiting out before breakfast. Key Takeaways: Best Bait: Pink bubblegum Trout Tricks minnows (add Trigger Scent for 50% more bites). Depth Shift: Start at 20 ft at dawn, drop to 40 ft by noon. Pro Move: “Fish the ‘scatter’—where birds dive, trout feast!” — Captain Kellogg Bonus Intel: Lightning trout (a hybrid) are mixed in—look for their golden streaks! 3. Striped Bass: The Minnow Trick Post-spawn stripers are hungry but picky. Live minnows or flashy spoons are crushing it near river currents. Key Takeaways: Where to Cast: Eddies below rapids (fish rest here). Gear Switch: If minnows fail, try chartreuse Blade Runner spoons. Pro Tip: “Downsize hooks post-spawn—they nibble, don’t gorge!” — Brett Brady Subtopic: Striper vs. largemouth? Stripers are longer, fight harder, and love fast-moving water. 4. King Salmon: Troll Like a Pro Kings are stacking deep (55+ feet) near underwater structures. Trolling with downriggers is the way to go. Key Takeaways: Lure Setup: Shad rigs (real or soft plastic) behind dodgers. Speed Control: 2.3–2.8 mph—slow enough to tempt lazy giants. Pro Move: “Follow the birds—where they dive, salmon feast.” — Captain Monty Did You Know? Kings turn reddish during spawn—catch them silver for best eating. Spring Fishing Cheat Sheet Species Best Lure Depth Pro Tip Kokanee Corn-tipped spinners 35–70 ft Add garlic scent! Trout Pink minnows 20–40 ft Fish near bird activity Stripers Live minnows Current edges Switch to spoons if slow King Salmon Shad rigs 55+ ft Troll slow Your Turn to Hit the Water Spring fishing is like a limited-time sale—the bite won’t last forever! This is the prime window to get out there and experience some of the most exciting fishing of the year. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, these tips will give you a significant advantage. Ready to put these secrets into practice? Explore our wide range of fishing gear and lures, perfect for your next spring adventure. Happy fishing, and we'll see you out on the water!

Learn more
Legacy in Every Cast: Honoring Uncle Larry + Red-Hot Spring Fishing Across California

Legacy in Every Cast: Honoring Uncle Larry + Red-Hot Spring Fishing Across California

The fishing community lost a true original this week. Uncle Larry Barnes—yeah, THE Uncle Larry—passed away. If you’ve ever trolled with one of his spinners, you know why this is more than just another fishing report. It’s a tribute to a man whose tackle helped shape the way we fish for trout and kokanee. But even as we say goodbye, Uncle Larry’s legacy is alive and well in the water. In fact, guides from all over Northern California reported jaw-dropping days this week—many of them while using his signature spinners. Who’s Larry ‘Uncle Larry’ Barnes? Uncle Larry wasn’t just a guy who made lures—he made legendary lures. He was the type of fisherman who'd share his secret sauce without blinking. Always smiling, always teaching. Whether it was at Sacramento Pro Tackle or out on the lake, Larry Barnes left a mark on every angler who crossed his path. This week, the Catch America crew honored him the best way we know how: by running his spinners and crushing fish. Captain Nate put it best: “This fish right here is a tribute to the innovation, expertise and attention to detail that Uncle Larry brought to trout and salmon trolling.” Let’s dive into the action from the water. Lake Amador: The Bottomless CreelThe crew lit it up at Amador this week. We’re talking a catch bag that looked like a sampler platter from the freshwater gods—big kings, chunky kokanee up to 17 inches, fat trout, even a few surprise crappie. The game plan? Gear Depth: Fish were scattered from 15 to 60 feet. Hot Baits: Stick baits, Chrome Killer scent, and yes—Uncle Larry’s spinners. Tactic Tip: Watch your sonar and chase marks. Fish are moving fast with rising temps. Captain Nate says, “Run it all—Chrome Killer scent, spoons, stick baits. Just be ready, because it’s game on from top to bottom.” Collins Lake: Pink Baits and Full Moon Problems Meanwhile, Cal Kellogg’s crew has been hammering lightning trout and rainbows at Collins Lake. Early in the week? Easy limits, day after day. Later in the week? That pesky full moon rolled in and made the fish a little gun-shy. Short strikes were the name of the game—but Cal wasn’t about to let them win. Here’s what worked: Top Bait: Bubblegum pink Trout Trix Minnows, rigged with action discs. Hook Upgrade: Swapped Mustad #4 singles for #8 red treble hooks—huge difference on short strikers. Scent Game: Trigger scent. On every bait. Every time. Trolling speeds were dialed in at around 2.0 mph, with slight bumps or drops depending on what Cal saw on the sonar. Bonus tip? If you’re chasing lightning trout, don’t be afraid to drop a line as deep as 50 feet, especially if you spot a fat mark. That’s how Cal’s buddy landed a bruiser lightning just days ago. Lake Camanche & Pardee: Great Stocking, Tough Access Both lakes saw new plants this week, but there’s a catch—no boats allowed for now. That means your best shot is to be there the day of the plant with your shore gear locked and loaded. What to bring? PowerBait Nightcrawlers Mini jigs Power Eggs If you wait too long, these fish are heading straight for cooler, deeper water. Translation? Tougher bite if you miss the window. Pro Tips for Tough Conditions Fishing during a full moon? Don’t sweat it—you’ve still got options. Downsize hooks to turn tentative bites into hookups. Add action discs to your plastics for more wiggle. Zigzag your troll pattern when you spot marks near your bait depth. Don’t underestimate the power of scent—it’s like fish seasoning. As Cal says, “I went through two bottles of scent this week. When they get picky, that little bit of flavor makes a big difference.” Quick Reference: May Fishing Cheat Sheet Lake Target Species Depth Best Baits Pro Tip Lake Amador Trout, Kings, Kokanee, Crappie 15–60 ft Uncle Larry’s Spinners, Stick Baits Chrome killer scent = multi-species magic Collins Lake Lightning & Rainbow Trout 15–30 ft (down to 50) Pink Trout Trix w/ Action Discs Switch to treble hooks on short strikers Camanche/ Pardee Freshly Planted Trout Shoreline only PowerBait, Mini Jigs, Nightcrawlers Be there the day they stock! Cast Out with Confidence This week was about more than just the bite. It was about legacy, innovation and celebrating the anglers who helped shape this sport. Uncle Larry’s spirit lives on every time one of us trolls one of his spinners. So grab your rods, rig up right and don’t forget your scent. Whether you're chasing lightning trout or soaking PowerBait from shore, May is putting on a show—and the fish are waiting. Want more tips or gear that works? Check out our Catch America lure kits and scent packages, or drop a comment with your own Uncle Larry story. See you out there.  

Learn more
The Secret to Catching More Salmon: Captain Monte’s Ultimate Shad Rig Setup

The Secret to Catching More Salmon: Captain Monte’s Ultimate Shad Rig Setup

If you’ve ever wondered how the pros rig their bait to fool deepwater kings, Captain Monte Smith is about to let you in on his go-to setup. It’s not complicated—but it is deadly effective.Let’s break it down in plain English: if you're trolling for salmon and not getting bit, it might not be your luck—it might be your rig. In this blog, you'll learn how to build a simple yet super effective 3-hook shad harness from Captain Monte himself, of Gold Country Sport Fishing. Whether you're new to trolling or just want to upgrade your rig game, this one’s for you.What You’ll Need to Build the Rig First up, gather your supplies. No need for a full tackle shop—just a few essentials: Hooks: use a size 2 Owner or Gamakatsu mosquito hook, a size 8 Gamakatsu single egg hook, and a red Owner ST-36 treble hook (size 6). Line: 12 lb test fluorocarbon (Capt. Monte likes P-Line Tactical—it’s tough enough for those big-toothed salmon). Swivel: Use a ball bearing swivel—not a barrel swivel—to prevent line twist. Scissors & Clippers: Sharp scissors for yarn and fingernail clippers for trimming line. Black Yarn: Yep, you heard right. Sewing yarn helps keep the egg hook secure while still adjustable. You don’t need anything fancy—just tools that work.Step-by-Step: Rigging the LeaderLet’s start with about a 5–6 foot fluorocarbon leader. Here’s how he sets up the hook sequence: 1. Tie the Treble Hook First Thread the line through the treble hook eye. Wrap 7 times, then feed the tag end back through the eye. Wrap again 7 times and snug it up. This hook will act as your stinger—it’s not attached directly to the fish. 2. Add the Mosquito Hook Slide the hook about an inch or so ahead of the treble, depending on your shad size. Same deal: thread, wrap 7 times, go back through the eye, and wrap again. Pull tight. Now you’ve got your main structural hook in place. 3. Add the Single Egg Hook with Yarn Run the leader through the hook eye. Take a 10-inch piece of black yarn, wet it, and thread it through the eye alongside the leader—do this from both sides. Wrap the yarn 8–9 times around the eye, then snug it down just enough so the hook can slide a bit. The sliding motion of the egg hook helps you get that sweet rolling action later when the bait’s in the water. Prepping the Shad: Brine & Size MattersCapt. Monte prefers frozen shad around 2 to 2.5 inches long. The trick? Brine them the night before.Why? Because a brined shad holds up better. The skin toughens, the belly doesn’t fall out, and it helps the bait last longer on the troll. Brining recipes vary, but the key is salt and refrigeration overnight. How to Rig the Shad ItselfOnce your harness is built and your bait is brined, it’s go time. Here’s how to hook the shad: 1. Center Hook (Mosquito Hook) Insert the hook through the side of the shad near the dorsal fin and out the other side. Lay the shank flat against the fish’s side to support the bend. 2. Egg Hook Go through the bottom jaw and out through the hard part on top of the head. Avoid the eyes! Salmon key in on those, and damaged eyes can turn them off. 3.Treble Hook (Stinger) Leave it trailing off the back of the bait. Don’t stick it in the fish. Now here’s the magic: pull the leader gently and watch that shad start to bend. You can adjust the curve to get a tight or slow roll. That rolling motion is what drives salmon nuts. Why This Rig Works (And What to Watch For)This setup is designed with salmon behavior in mind. Here’s why it shines: Bait Presentation: The bend and roll make your shad look alive, even at trolling speeds. Hook Coverage: Salmon often attack head-first. This rig puts hooks in all the right places to boost hookup ratios. Minimal Twist: The ball bearing swivel keeps your line from turning into a spaghetti mess. Durability: A brined bait plus tough leader means fewer lost rigs and more landed fish. One more tip: salmon bites aren’t usually aggressive. Look for light taps, then pull your rod out of the downrigger clip and give it a quick pop. Don’t overdo it—you just need to trigger the hookset. Final Thoughts: Ready to Roll? That’s the full breakdown of how Captain Monte rigs his shad for salmon trolling success. It’s simple, smart and built from years of on-the-water experience. Want to give it a shot? Grab some hooks, prep your brine and start practicing your wraps. Once you get the feel, this rig can become your go-to for kings in lakes like Don Pedro and beyond. Curious about the gear Capt. Monte uses or want to explore more rigging tips?Check out our full line of salmon trolling gear at Catch America.Got questions or a favorite rig of your own? Drop a comment—we love hearing from fellow anglers!  

Learn more
Spring is Here — And So is the Bite! Top California Fishing Hotspots You Can’t Miss This Week

Spring is Here — And So is the Bite! Top California Fishing Hotspots You Can’t Miss This Week

Lakes, Bait, and Big Bites—Let’s Get Into ItFrom NorCal rivers to Sierra lakes, fish are on the move and biting. If it swims, it’s on the menu this week. Trout, kokanee, kings, stripers—you name it. We’ve rounded up what the guides are seeing and where the hot bites are happening. Let’s break it down by zones, tactics and a few can't-miss tips. LAKE & RIVER ACTION: What’s Hot Right NowLake Shasta (Trout & Salmon)Conditions: Water’s warming fast, and clarity is great.Bite: Solid trout fishing from the surface down to 25 feet. Top Picks: Trigger Spoons (bright colors) Nightcrawlers behind a dodger Side planers help get your bait away from the boat in shallow water. Beginner Tip: Side planers let you troll lures out to the sides instead of directly behind your boat. Helps avoid spooking fish. Depths: 60–100 feet Gear Tips: Brined anchovies behind 6-inch Sling Blades Quality sonar is key—fish are hugging tight to bait schools Lake Berryessa (Trout, Kokanee, Kings) Summary: If you want variety, this is the spot. What's Working: Yozuri minnows and shad-pattern spoons Trout in the top 10 feet Kokanee a bit deeper (20–30 feet) Kings down at 50–70 feet Pro Move: Use scent! Garlic, anise or even Pro-Cure gel on your lures makes a difference, especially for kokanee.Conditions: Crystal clear and loaded with fish Tactics: Shore or boat? Doesn’t matter. Trout are everywhere. Use small Rapalas, spinners, or worms under a bobber No downriggers needed Beginner Friendly: Great place for kids or casual fishing. Cast from shore with a worm and let the magic happen. Delta Region (Striped Bass & More) What’s Happening: Stripers are rolling through! Live minnows are top choice Try drifting or back-bouncing around 8–15 feet deep Licensing Note: All river guides using bait must carry a USCG license. Always double-check your guide’s credentials! Top Tactics & Gear This Week Target   Depth Lure/Bait Pro Tip Rainbow Trout (Shasta) 0–25 ft Trigger Spoons, worms Troll slow, use side planers King Salmon (Don Pedro) 60–100 f Brined Anchovies + Sling Blades Use sonar to find bait balls Kokanee (Berryessa) 20–30 ft Spinners, corn-tipped hoochies Add scent for better results Stripers (Delta) 8–15 ft Live minnows Drift with current flow WEEKEND GAME PLANHere’s your pick-three based on your vibe: Want Easy Shore Action? Go to Collins Lake and toss a spinner or float a worm. Chasing Trophy Kings? Don Pedro. Go deep with brined bait and good sonar. Looking for Variety? Berryessa is your buffet. Kokanee, trout, and kings—all in one spot. Angler Tip of the Week“Fish don’t live in ugly places. Even if you’re not catching, you’re still winning.”Keep your drag set loose, your hooks sharp, and your cooler ready.

Learn more
Spring Fishing Frenzy: Easy Wins for Trout, Stripers & Kings in California Waters

Spring Fishing Frenzy: Easy Wins for Trout, Stripers & Kings in California Waters

Spring has sprung, and California's lakes and rivers are teeming with fish! Whether you're a newbie angler or just looking for a relaxing day on the water, now's the perfect time to cast your line.Sacramento River: Striper Central Why It's Hot: Spring marks the pre-spawn period for striped bass, making them aggressive and eager to bite. Top Tips: Bait Choice: Live minnows are the go-to. Simply hook one through the back and let it swim naturally. Location: Focus on areas with slower currents, like the edges of the river, where stripers like to hang out. Technique: Anchor your boat and let the bait drift naturally. Patience is key—wait for that telltale tug! Time of Day: Early mornings are prime time, but evening bites are picking up too. Pro Insight: As water temperatures rise above 62°F, stripers begin to spawn. Post-spawn, they retreat to deeper, cooler waters.Collins Lake: Trout Galore Why It's Hot: Collins Lake is stocked with rainbow and lightning trout, making it a haven for anglers. Top Tips: Bait Choice: PowerBait in green, chartreuse or garlic flavors works wonders. For trolling, try pink Trout Trix worms paired with a flasher. Depth: Trout are cruising between 10–25 feet deep. Use a simple weight or a diving device to reach them. Technique: Trolling at 1.8–2.0 mph is effective. If fishing from shore, cast out and let your bait sit near the bottom. Time of Day: Late morning to early afternoon sees increased trout activity, especially as the sun warms the water. Pro Insight: Adding a scent attractant like Trigger Scent to your bait can double your hookups. Don Pedro Lake: King Salmon & Rainbow Trout Why It's Hot: The lake's rising water levels and clear conditions make it ideal for targeting big fish. Top Tips: Bait Choice: Frozen shad on a homemade harness is a favorite for both king salmon and rainbow trout. Depth: Fish are being caught between 35–75 feet deep. Use a downrigger or weighted line to reach these depths. Technique: Troll slowly and steadily. Keep an eye on your fish finder to locate schools. Time of Day: Early mornings yield the best results, but fish can be caught throughout the day. Pro Insight: The kokanee salmon bite is just a few weeks away. Prepare your gear now for this upcoming opportunity. Quick Gear Guide Target Species Best Bait Depth   Hotspot Location Striped Bass Live Minnows 5–12 ft Sacramento River Edges Rainbow Trout PowerBait/Pink worms 10–25 ft Collins Lake King Salmon Frozen Shad on harness 35–75 ft Don Pedro Lake Bonus Tips for Beginners Hooking Minnows: Insert the hook through the back, just behind the dorsal fin, allowing the minnow to swim naturally. Using Flashers: Attach a flasher—a shiny, spinning device—ahead of your bait to attract fish from a distance. Understanding "Bird Piles": Look for groups of birds diving into the water; they're feeding on baitfish, indicating predators like stripers or salmon are nearby. Ready to Reel In? Spring fishing in California offers unmatched opportunities for anglers of all levels. Grab your gear, pick a spot, and enjoy the thrill of the catch! For more tips and gear recommendations, visit Catch America. Check out our latest videos for visual guides and tutorials.  

Learn more