An algae bloom on the lake has knocked down the oxygen levels significantly this past week. Five parts per million of dissolved oxygen (which trout require) stops at 13 feet by the dam an only goes down to 30 feet at Papoose Bay and the West Ramp. A slip bobber rig is a must, with no oxygen on the bottom, and clarity at 5 feet you must suspend your bait between these levels. Drift fishing is also a good way to target the trout. Use a sliding egg rig and put out 20 to 30 feet of line. Bait anglers working Rock Wall at the mouth of Metcalf Bay have been doing well with a slip bobber rig.

Due to the lack of oxygen trollers have found fish at the surface down to 2 colors. Flexibility is important, be sure to vary colors and lures as weather conditions and sunlight can change quickly on the lake. Flat lined CD Rapalas in silver/black and gold/black have worked well. Leadcore anglers have scored limits with Neddlefish in copper watermelon, nickel bikini, and the most successful color of all time on the lake red dot frog. Trout Alley has been the most productive with Metcalf Bay to the West Ramp also worth a shot.

Dominic Geracitano of Fallbrook landed this hefty Big Bear Bow on a recent trip with Curt Dills of Fish Big Bear Charter Service.

Panfish and Catfish continue to show in the shallows, and by docks. Use mini-jigs or mealworms for the panfish. The whisker fish will inhale just about kind of rank offering off the bottom.