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Good to finally get back on the lake for a nice lazy day fishing for cutts that are gearing up for the spawn. Unfortunately, this morning was like the past several mornings, socked in with fog. Despite not having much luck in foggy conditions, I headed out and targeted waters north of 520, in the unlikely event that a coho would pick up my gear. Surface temps are now a shade under 60 degrees so the fish could be anywhere in the water column and I started working waters in the 45 to 60 foot range. As had been the case many times before, no real action to speak of while the fog was present. Sometime after 12:00pm the fog started to lift and I picked up my first fish of the day on a black leech mini Apex. Not much size to the fish but it hit as I was bringing up my gear after running too close to the point I was fishing. This led me to fish a little shallower, targeting the weed line the remainder of the day. The next 4 to the boat came at a steady pace and all were caught in 20 to 35 feet of water. Once the sun poked out for good, I switched to a green UV trout killer and it did the job very well. Big fish of the day was a nicely colored hen that was easily over 20” and one that I wished I could have taken a better picture of. As I wasn’t keeping any fish today, I felt it best to get her released as soon as possible. On my way back to the launch I stopped and checked out the conditions at the 520 bridge. Both sides are still fishable, just need to pay attention to the buoys marking the new bridge on the North side. Also, the East highrise is still closed and unless they move some gear for the weekend, I suspect it will stay that way for a while longer. The lake is down at least a foot and a half from its summer height and water clarity is very good. Maybe we will get a little algae bloom with all this nice weather. What I didn’t spot much of was bait and perch, perhaps next outing I’ll go looking for some slabs to take home for dinner.

salmonbarry

10/18/2013 11:07:00 PM

great report! I need to try that part of the lake someday!

the piranha

10/19/2013 6:42:00 AM

those sure are pretty fish! I hope I can get a couple in the river this year. I don't think I will ever mount down riggers on my boat.

The Quadfather

10/19/2013 8:17:00 AM

I love the winter Lake WA. trolling, can't wait. Nice pics.

MotoBoat

10/19/2013 11:38:00 AM

When was your last day on the salt? Once the fog lifted, the water was clear and flat with little wind. Nice day, nice pic's, nice report. The old school yellow, UL, Wright and McGill rod brings back a bunch of memories! Finally wore out the stainless ferell, to the point the tip section would no longer stay put. My dad's is still going strong after 40years, same with the matching all metal Wright & McGill reel.

sleepyferret

10/19/2013 6:26:00 PM

Thanks for the report G-Man! I've been studying your presentation on thermocline and looking at new fishfinders (lol). Love seeing these great photos!

G-Man

10/19/2013 10:07:00 PM

piranha - no need for downriggers come fall and winter on the lake. In fact, I use snap weights most of the time and leaded line works well too.
Motoboat - It's been at least a couple weeks now, I'd be out regularly if area 10 was open for crab. The rod in the background is a newer version made by Eagle Claw. It is a nine foot featherlight and I it has such a soft action that one can pretty much yard in kokanee without fear of tearing out the hooks.
sleepyferret - right now and through May, you don't need to worry about the thermocline. It's all about finding bait and hoping that the fish are near by.

big2wheel

11/17/2013 1:23:00 PM

G- Man great time I also have to try that one day. Great pics.

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