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Fishing Report: Jeff Goodwin - Shasta

Catch America – Fishing Report

Location & Conditions

Body of Water: Shasta Lake
City / Region: Northern California, Shasta County
Date of Report: May 19, 2025

Weather Conditions: Not explicitly stated, but water clarity and surface temps suggest calm, clear conditions

Water Temperature: Surface near 70°F

Water Clarity: Perfect — excellent light penetration

Water Level / Flow: Not specified; thermocline starting to form


Fishing Overview

Overall Fishing Rating (1–5): ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Target Species: Kokanee Salmon (plus mentions of wild rainbow trout and king salmon in nearby waters)

Most Active Depth Range: 35–50 ft

Most Effective Presentation: Trolling

Best Time of Day: Not specified — consistent limits suggest all-day action

Successful Lures or Baits Used:

  • Catch America Dodgers paired with Uncle Jerry’s Spinner Rigs
  • Garlic and tuna oil-cured corn (key difference maker)

Other Techniques That Worked:

  • Trolling speeds between 1.1 and 1.5 mph (bites even up to 2.0 mph)

Notable Catches:

  • Consistent limits of chrome-bright kokanee, 14–16 inches long


Guide’s Tips & Notes

Advice for This Week:

  • Dial in trolling speeds between 1.1–1.5 mph for best results (don’t be afraid to push up to 2.0 mph if bites slow)
  • Use garlic/tuna oil-cured corn for that extra edge on kokanee
  • Watch for thermocline development as water warms — expect fish to adjust depth soon

Changes You’re Seeing:

  • Unprecedented early-season kokanee action with limits common
  • Thermocline beginning to form, signaling a shift in fish behavior soon

Predictions for Next Week:

  • Continued strong kokanee action expected through summer
  • New kokanee gear packages launching soon to keep you ahead of the bite



Regional Notes:

  • Sacramento River reports hot wild rainbow trout bite
  • Whiskeytown slower currently
  • Trinity Lake kokanee and king salmon still showing solid

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