Winter conditions have made ice fishing difficult in Alpine County, with temperatures fluctuating between 14°F and 45°F. Despite the icy landscape, anglers are advised to stay off the ice for safety reasons, as stability remains a concern. Reports from local lakes indicate that while some bodies of water are frozen over, they have not yet reached safe ice thickness.
According to local angler Scott Champion, who attempted to fish the Upper Owens River last week, morning temperatures dropped to a chilling 3°F, resulting in unproductive fishing. “The fish weren’t biting, but we had a great time outdoors,” he remarked. His experience underscores the challenges many anglers are currently facing.
Local Fishing Conditions
Fishing opportunities still exist, albeit with precautions. Anglers are encouraged to wear appropriate winter gear, including coveralls and gloves, to stay warm during outings. It’s also vital for both California and Nevada anglers to check the expiration date on their fishing licenses to avoid complications with game wardens.
For those interested in fishing at Topaz Lake, the Douglas County Parks Department is now offering annual boat launch and park passes. These passes allow for year-round access to launch boats and utilize day-use facilities. For additional information regarding costs and purchasing, individuals can contact the department at 775-782-5500 or visit their office located at 1594 Esmeralda Ave in Gardnerville, NV.
Detailed Lake Reports
**Lake Tahoe** has shown fair fishing conditions. Anglers have primarily been successful in the shallow waters near Camp Richardson and Taylor Creek, employing techniques such as using a silver dodger paired with live minnows. Some have achieved good results with F9 black and silver Rapalas deployed via downriggers. For boat rental information, interested parties can reach Ruby Jean Charters at 775-233-5055.
**Caples Lake** is currently covered by ice, but conditions are unstable, particularly around the edges, which become slushy as temperatures rise during the day. Caution is advised for anyone considering venturing onto the ice.
At **Red Lake**, reports indicate a thin ice layer of approximately 3 to 4 inches. Many anglers prefer to wait for at least 6 inches of solid ice before fishing. Parking is available behind the lake, but caution is necessary as the area can become congested with snowmobile trailers.
The **Carson River West Fork** is not recommended for fishing at this time due to significant snow accumulation in Hope Valley and the dangerous conditions in the Woodfords Canyon area. Conversely, the **Carson River East Fork**, particularly above Hangman’s Bridge, is reported to be ideal for fishing. Anglers have successfully caught rainbow trout weighing between 2 and 3 pounds using copper jons or hare’s ear flies. Although access is limited, those interested can enjoy a weekend getaway by staying at the Carson River Resort, which offers accommodation options close to the river.
While fishing at **Woods Lake** is currently impractical due to unplowed roads and deep snow, **Topaz Lake** remains accessible. Recent reports indicate that the water level has risen by approximately 4 feet since the last visit. Anglers can utilize the open boat ramp, with only the central dock available. Despite encountering numerous fish schools, the catch has been minimal during recent outings, with anglers recalling past successes while enjoying the winter landscape.
As winter progresses, opportunities for fishing may remain limited, but local anglers remain hopeful for improved conditions. Those who capture a noteworthy catch are encouraged to share their photos by emailing [email protected]. The fishing community looks forward to warmer days and a more fruitful season ahead.