2008 Southern California Bass Outlook Hoping to catch the next world record at Dixon? Want to bend the rod on some lunkers at Piru? Get ready to take on Southern California’s awesome lakes in 2008. (February 2008). ... [+] Full Article
Pre-spawn can be the best time here for largemouths. There are tons of males roaming the banks and females that could break records hanging just outside. It's worth the drive from anywhere in Southern California -- or NorCal, for that matter. And you can camp for a few days. (If your first day is good, you won't want to leave.)
All the regular baits work here, from plastics to crankbaits and everything in between. If you really want a trophy, though, you'll need to invest in some of the lifelike trout-imitation lures.
As I said, the big boys love trout, and if you put the time in chucking one of these lures, you'll have many a glory day on this lake, probably setting new records for yourself -- and maybe the state and world as well.
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
Lake Barrett: The lake is open on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Reservations can be made by calling (619) 220-8497 or on Ticketmaster's Web site at TicketMaster.com. Reservations will be available one month at a time, always beginning on the second Tuesday of the previous month. From Interstate 8, take Japatul Valley Road 5.6 miles south to Lyons Valley Road. After turning right on Lyons Valley Road, watch for descending numbers on green milepost markers. The gate is located 6 miles down the road just past milepost 12. Or from Highway 94, turn left on Honey Springs Road, go 7.7 miles to Lyons Valley Road. Turn right on Lyons Valley Road, and it's 1.7 miles to the gate. To learn more, visit Sannet.gov.
For some local tackle stores, you can telephone:
• Angler's Arsenal, at (619) 466-8355;
• Angler's Edge, at (619) 938-0020;
• Aim Marine Tackle, at (619) 443-0031; and
• Lakeside Bait and Tackle at 619-443-3859.
No guides are available.
Lake San Vicente: From Highway 67, go east on Willow Road, turn left on Moreno Avenue, and follow signs to the entrance. From the entrance, it's about a mile to the concession and launch area. Check out SanDiego.gov
San Diego City lakes' hotline is (619) 465-FISH (3474). Local tackle stores include those listed above for Lake Barrett.
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