This past week has been great for shoreline anglers who continue to use a variety of Berkley dough baits in a myriad of colors and scents. Some beautiful "Bows" were taken from the north shore of the lake from the Big Bear Dam to Stanfield Cutoff! Anglers "in the know" are using the tried and true slip weight rig with a 3'-4' fluorocarbon leader (NEVER more than 4lb test line). The cold water temp. has sent the Large Mouths, Smalleys, Crappie, Bluegill and Cats down for their "long winter nap" but has really re-invigorated the trout bite! Size is averaging 14 to 18 inches with weights ranging from 1 to 2 pounds...However a significant number of "High Altitude Rod-Benders" have consistently been taken in the 3 to 8 pound range! Given the fact that the Public Launch Ramps and Private Marinas have closed for the winter, not much to report in the way of "Trolling". However, if you are heading out from your lakefront home and dock to do some trolling, hit "Trout Alley" with Needlefish, Thomas Bouyants at 2-3 colors for the best results.

Until next time...here's wishing you "Tight Lines and Full Stringers"....

Stephen Raphael
Big Bear Sporting Goods