After a very hot summer it took some extra time for cooler weather to set in. Waterski season is closed and a couple weeks ago, as surface temperatures dropped below 70F, we were finally able to start our fall planting program which produced immediate results.

Apart from those pictured, I heard about a Ten Pound Rainbow from long time Collins Lake fisher Andie, who caught….and released it! I’m hoping for a photo by email, but just know there might be a 10 pounder lurking by the dam.

There have also been a few scattered bass and a catfish or two, but as you can see from above the big news is the trout are back on the bite. Collins Lake’s private trout plants will continue every week through Thanksgiving.

Even if you’re not fishing, this time of year is great for just kayaking along a quiet shoreline. The lake is about 49′ down, which is not as low as this time 2015 but still a ways down. The surface temperature is down around 67F, cold for swimming but great for trolling to top!