Fishing Report: Monte Smith - Don Pedro Lake

Catch America – Fishing Report

Location & Conditions
Body of Water: Don Pedro Lake
City / Region: Tuolumne County / Sierra Foothills, California
Date of Report: May 19, 2025
Weather Conditions: Not specified (clear water and rising levels suggest stable, fair weather)
Water Temperature: Not specified
Water Clarity: Clear (12–13 feet visibility)
Water Level / Flow: Nearly full and rising daily; Blue Oaks ramp is closing soon due to high water


Fishing Overview

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

Target Species:

  • Kokanee Salmon
  • King Salmon
  • Rainbow Trout
  • German Brown Trout

Most Active Depth Range: 40–70 ft

Most Effective Presentation:

  • Early: Frozen shad
  • Midday: Dodgers with Apex lures and corn
  • Windy: Spoons (for improved boat control)

Best Time of Day: Early morning bite best with shad; technique changes throughout the day

Successful Lures or Baits Used:

  • Frozen shad (early king salmon)
  • Dodgers and Apex lures tipped with corn
  • Spoons (in breezy conditions)

Other Techniques That Worked:

  • Varying setback lengths (longer setbacks = more strikes)
  • Targeting fish in known holding zones

Notable Catches:

  • 7.5 lb German brown trout (27"+, released)
  • King salmon up to 5 lbs
  • Multiple limits: e.g., 3 anglers caught 9 kings, 5 rainbows, and the big brown


Guide’s Tips & Notes

Advice for This Week:

  • Fish are starting to group up, so key in on consistent zones.
  • Use longer setbacks for more strikes—don’t be afraid to experiment with distance.
  • Switch techniques with conditions: shad early, hardware as the day progresses or if wind picks up.

Changes You’re Seeing:

  • Kokanee action is becoming consistent for the first time this season.
  • Water levels are high and continuing to rise—adjust launch plans accordingly.
  • Increased catch consistency across species, with some quality browns mixed in.

Predictions for Next Week:

  • Kokanee size and numbers will keep improving heading into summer.
  • Continued strong trout and king action expected as water stays high and stable.
  • Bookings are open through July—now’s the time to lock in a prime day on the water.
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