Memorial Day Fishing Report: Kokanee, Macs, and Rainbows Biting Strong at Lake Tahoe
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Memorial Day Fishing Report: Kokanee, Macs, and Rainbows Biting Strong at Lake Tahoe
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About this listen
It's shaping up to be a fantastic day on the water. The Kokanee and Mackinaw bite has been particularly strong as we approach summer[1]. Boats have been averaging about 3-5 fish per rod lately, though the fish are sitting a bit deeper than usual for late May – you'll want to target between 60 and 75 feet deep for the best action[2].
Rainbow trout action remains solid, with fish averaging 2-6 pounds. Trophy rainbows can reach up to 25 pounds, so keep your drag set right! The Nevada side at Logan Shoals offers excellent access to deeper water with consistent rainbow populations – perfect for shore fishing. For California anglers, try the rocky shorelines about 4 miles from Tahoe City off Highway 89[5].
For those targeting Kokanee, they're schooling nicely now. Small lures when toplining from shore or boat will work well for rainbows. If you're after both rainbows and Mackinaw, try jigging tight to the bottom with artificial lures, live minnows, or nightcrawlers. The larger fish tend to hug the bottom this time of year. Trolling a large 6-8 inch hoochie or nightcrawler behind a flasher has been producing nicely for cruising trout[5].
The warmer weather we've been experiencing has created some runoff, but fishing conditions remain favorable overall[3]. May is actually one of the ideal months for rainbow trout, as the water temperatures are perfect and the fish are very active[5]. Plus, with today being a holiday, the Forest Service offices are closed, so you'll find fewer folks handling administrative tasks and more people on the water[4].
One hot tip: head out early this morning as the bite has been strongest in the early hours. The public launch at Cave Rock has been less crowded than usual for a holiday, making it a good option to put in.
Don't forget your California or Nevada fishing license depending on which side you're fishing, and remember that we're now in the summer regulations period.
So grab your gear, pack some extra water since it's warming up today, and get out there! This is Artificial Lure, signing off and wishing you tight lines and full creels on this beautiful Memorial Day at Lake Tahoe!
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