Matt Freeman

We are very fortunate up here in the Kern River Valley to have a lake and a river that are full of several different species of game fish to catch.

Some bite better than others, some at different times of the year. One of the most popular and probably the most prevalent in the area is the Rainbow Trout.

So, in light of the fishing tournament being just around the corner, here are some tips to help you put Mr. Ten Grand in the net.

Trout are a species of fish that prefer colder water, and current. Although at home in a large lake like ours, if you can find current you can find fish. This becomes truer as the weather warms. In wintertime trout roam freely around the lake and bunch up in the river. It is the opposite in the summer. Summertime brings good river fishing because the fish are spread out and for the lake; the trout are seeking the colder water and food sources. Find those two things at the same time at the same spot. You will catch fish.

That is why the North Fork of the Kern is so hot for trout in the heat of the summer, because of that cool current and the structure that the river channel has to offer. This winter, fish the face and corners of both Dams, French Gulch by the Marina, Boulder Gulch, Engineer’s Point and the flats out by Red’s Marina. All of these areas have one or both of these factors.

Here are a few ways to maximize your opportunities this tournament to put some fish in the boat.

1. Use light line. Trout are known to be line shy, especially big ones. Stick with no more than four pound test unless you are trolling.

2. If bait fishing, use fresh bait. Don’t get the power bait out from last year, buy some new stuff trust me it makes a difference.

3. Don’t just use one type of bait. Get yourself a two-pole stamp, double your chances of a catch. Put fresh power bait on one and a nice lively night crawler on the other, make sure it is inflated.

4. Use leaders and egg sinkers. Don’t let the fish feel the weight or they oftentimes drop the bait before they are hooked. Use a small egg sinker above a swivel, and then at least 18 inches of light line leader.

5. If using lures, go with something that looks like the shad. Every trout that you catch that has been in the lake a while is going to key on the shad, take advantage of their feeding habits.

Next time, some more tips. Till’ then, tight lines and loose drags!!