Lake Mendocino Fishing Report
**If the bass bite stalls:** switch to a dropshot with a 4" worm on the first deeper point (8–12 ft) — the cooling trend will push some fish toward the first break.
Largemouth and Smallmouth bass are your best bet right now. Water temp is a perfect 70°F, both species are in pre-spawn/spawn mode, and the falling pressure this afternoon will trigger a feeding window before the post-front slowdown tomorrow.
Why they’re active:
- 70°F is prime for both bass species — right in the 60–75°F peak zone.
- Recent cooling trend (down 28.5°F) and falling pressure actually concentrate fish in shallow, stable pockets, making them more catchable.
- Clear skies and light wind right now mean fish will be tight to cover or cruising shallow flats early; afternoon chop improves reaction-bait effectiveness.
Shore angler plan — where to start:
- East side cove near the dam or the northwest shoreline pockets protected from the prevailing wind. Look for dark-bottom flats, laydowns, and gravel banks.
- Cast parallel to the bank from points or along the first weed edge. If you see bluegill beds, bass are likely nearby.
What to throw:
- Primary: 3/8oz white or chartreuse spinnerbait (slow-rolled near cover) or a craw-colored jig (3/8oz) pitched to logs and rocks.
- Backup: 4" green pumpkin Senko wacky-rigged — let it fall, then shake once every 15 seconds.
Best window: 6:00–8:30 AM for topwater/jerkbaits, then again 4:00–7:00 PM as the sun drops and wind builds (forecast 13 mph). The falling pressure will push a late-afternoon bite.
Also worth noting: Bluegill and crappie are likely spawning on hard bottom in 2–5 ft. If you see beds, drop a small beetle spin or 2" tube for easy action. Catfish will pick up after dark on cut bait.
If the bass bite stalls: switch to a dropshot with a 4" worm on the first deeper point (8–12 ft) — the cooling trend will push some fish toward the first break.