Whiskeytown Lake Kokanee fishing had been off to another great start this year and easy limits were the rule for many.  Last week saw a dramatic change in the weather with daytime temperatures cooling down into the mid 60's.  Nighttime temps dipped into the 40's and Whiskeytown lake water temps quickly followed suit.  Lake temps of 58 degrees were noted this past Saturday which was a drop from 63 degrees at the mid point of last week.  

This certainly had an effect on the Kokanee and it really showed as catch numbers dropped dramatically.  A big change in the weather can definitely cause a temporary drop in fishing success and Whiskeytown Lake is no exception.  With climbing temperatures forecasted in the coming week, I'm sure things will pick up where they left off and the Kokanee fishing will once again take off.

Look for the best fishing to come from the main body of Whiskeytown Lake over deep water.  The channel below and to the south of the 299 bridge is a consistent producer and often times its the only area you need to fish to get your limits.  I've been making a run down to the cold water curtain, but I think its too early in the season to find any real action down there now.  Its not completely out of the question to find Kokanee schooling around the humps in the lake in shallower water.  I found some Kokanee in 25' of water yesterday.

Until things warm up a bit again, keep some lines trolling at 10'-15' and I'm sure most who venture out will find some Kokanee up high in the water column.  Its been the most productive depth for me this year so far this season, although I'll send one line down on occasion to see if they have dropped down, especially later in the day.  Orange has been my best color this week, but I always have something pink out behind the boat incase they change their mind.  One last set up to consider is the Dick Nite wee 50/50 spoon 24" behind a Dick Nite 50/50 dodger.  Its been a very productive combo in the 10' range.