This is a cold-water fishery at its best, with plenty of rainbow, brown and brook trout. Anglers trolling or casting a variety of spoons and in-line spinners take rainbows. Browns are primarily targeted in the spring and fall with floating plugs. Flyfishermen using nymph patterns do best on the brookies.

Camping at Margaret is a wilderness experience, with no amenities available other than chemical toilets. And with just 12 sites, whether in an RV or tent, you'll feel like you have the place to yourself. A caretaker controls access, and a handful of boats are available to members at no charge. If you don't want to row, you'll have to bring your own electric motor and battery.

For more information or to become a member, call Wilderness Unlimited at 1-800-498-9818.

It's unlikely that you'll want to stop fishing at Lake Margaret. But those who do can roar down the Pit River's white waters on a guided rafting adventure. For other ideas, call the Burney Chamber of Commerce at (530) 335-2111.

MCARTHUR-BURNEY FALLS
Described by Teddy Roosevelt as the eighth wonder of the world, this state park's waterfall is a must-see before breaking out your tackle.

The power of 100 million gallons of water per day cascading 129 feet into an eerie blue pool is worth the trip to this remote destination.

Although Lake Britton often pays off for smallmouth bass fanatics, it's the world-class trout streams that have anglers coming back. Rivers and creeks open on the last Saturday in April and close Nov. 15. Some have special regulations, so check your state Department of Fish and Game handbook before going. Beginners should start in Burney Creek above the falls, where in-line spinners take lots of stocked rainbows.

McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park has 128 campsites spread out over 875 acres. The park has restrooms, showers and an RV sanitation station, plus a general store and visitor center near the entrance.

At Britton, there are a ramp, seasonal boat rentals and a roped-off beach for swimming. For information, call the park at (530) 335-2777. For reservations, dial 1-800-444-7275.

Family members who enjoy hiking can get away from the water on much of the 62 miles of Pacific Crest Trail that wind through the region. For other ideas, call the Burney Chamber of Commerce at (530) 335-2111.

CLEAR LAKE
Considered by many the best trophy largemouth fishery west of the Rockies, Clear Lake offers families a shot at catching that bass of a lifetime. But don't let its name fool you -- the water here is as green as it gets. The pea-soup hue is a good thing, however. The abundance of nutrients gives Clear Lake color and also jump-starts a healthy food chain.