You get the idea. The last couple of years were a tad on the slower side, even though the daily average --at about 15 to 20 fish per rod each day -- was higher than any other San Diego lake.

This may be the breakout season, especially in the springtime, when the lake first opens. The fish in this lake will eat most lures, and a lot of lures that you wouldn't use as much in the other lakes around the county. So dust off those old packages and bring to Barrett all the lures you want to feel confident about once again.

Confidence in lures is a key factor in bass fishing. The Yamamoto Senko has been the hot bait here in the past. But as I said, this lake is the place to gain confidence in all the other lures that don't seem to work on the other lakes.

With the water up and so much brush in the shallows, spinnerbaits and flukes could be the hot ticket this year. Plastic worms, reapers, drop-shotting, jigs, crankbaits, Senkos and stickbaits should all do well. Don't forget your topwater baits at home either, as they work all season.

You can also use line with a higher breaking strength. Remember the fish here aren't line-shy, and you have a lot of brush, trees, and rocks to contend with.

The fish here are very healthy-looking and average about 2 pounds, with many 3-, 4-, and 5-plus-pound fish being caught. They are hard fighters and will test you and your tackle!

Speaking of tackle, this is a no-kill lake. Catch-and-release for bass only. You must pinch down the barbs on the lures once they're tied to your line. You don't have to pinch the barbs on every lure in your tackle box. But don't forget to do it to the ones you use, because California Fish and Game does come out and check.

Where should you start? Just go fishing. The fish are everywhere around the lake, whether hiding in shoreline brush, sunken trees, or on any of the many rockpiles. There are popular areas, but fishing the spots less hammered by the crowds will sometimes produce the best.

Rocky points are everywhere. Trees in the water and brush on every inch of shoreline offer cover to the bass. Just start fishing and you'll discover your favorite area. The water is traditionally a little stained, and will definitely be so this year.

In the springtime, therefore, when bass are bedding, you may not be able to see them nesting. Work your worm or favorite plastic bait slowly and your chances of entering a bass' bed will be greater, producing the strikes you need to catch them. You won't be disappointed.