Los Banos, CA (December 3, 2025) — The big lake storage has risen 20 vertical feet- to a total of 1,299,000 acre feet since November 12 th due to the huge water inputs from the last big storm. However the lakes current rate of rising has slowed with less inputs- creating a much more stable condition for the bait and stripers to pattern up in now. These factors are improving the bite and we are seeing more fish boiling in the coves due to the bait moving into the shallower areas. The water temp has also lowered down to 64 degrees – triggering more activity in the foggy conditions most days at the lake.
Overall the troll bite seems to have improved, but finding the fast moving , roving schools of stripers searching for baitballs is the real key to catching them right now. The fish are showing up from the surface all the way down to 60’ plus depths – so they have moved up in the water column looking for shallow schools of bait. Flocks of birds are a sign something is going on . Trolling the regular established lures like Lucky Crafts and Rapalas in Shad colors on Downriggers continues to work when you find active fish . Covering ground is a good tactic.
I have guided two times in the last week and caught/ released over 10 fish to 24” trolling the main lake
With Lucky Crafts in foggy conditions on the first trip . The second trip produced 16 fish to 25” for us ( released all) . The best depths have been the 60-75’ ranges.
The fish are chasing small minnows , so size of lure working the shoreline is key right now.
The full moon is hitting tomorrow- but the fog may diminish its usually negative impact this week.
Better lake stability , cooler water temps , clearer water and hungry stripers may be the formula for success right now.
Never give up!
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