psguardian said:
I won't have any floatation avail on this trip, but it sounds like a good place to park.
Any idea of the bug life there? Does the wind blow away all the top-side bugs? Should I just go with nymphs & leechy types?
~psguardian
Hellgrammites and scuds..... I use a 4# line with a 3' sinking tip with small Beaded nymphs (12 – 16) or Salmon fly nymphs in larger sizes (8 – 12).... she is the mother of all snag and hang up lakes when the weeds get a hold... light tippets work best, but tend to snap off easily… bring extra flies!!! I have had decent action off a floating fly and a trailing nymph if hatches are present. Fish anywhere you can locate some structure or cover and you will tie into a few. However, the best fishing is from a tube, canoe or small boat. I have also used Poppers in there with a little success if the fish are in the mood.
As to the wading, I have tried but be aware that it is a 'muck' bottom, however that can be to your advantage as you can slowly stir the mud without causing too much vibration or noise. The slurry that you create can bring in fish, especially if you move the front of your foot to cause a sucking action. Short cast to the outer edges of the ‘fog’ you kick up. Some nice fish can be taken, but expect primarily a Hatchery ‘clone’ fish show. Some good size Bass are in there too, along with Bullhead Cats and Bluegill, and thanks to ODFW, there are some Broodstock/Recycled Steelhead in there mixed with the random holdover fish.
Now a couple of tips… wade VERY slow and use a wading staff (never go into water deeper than your waist unless you have a PFD strong enough to pull you and your waders out of the muck)… if shore fishing, try along the dike for best success… use a little Smelly Jelly for added chances at fish.... fish very early or very late!!!
Good luck… tight lines and scream’n reels!ray: