Salmon and steelhead are still being caught in the Klamath and Trinity Rivers, according to our sources from Mad River Outfitters in Arcata. The area needs more significant rainfall before the North Coast Rivers come fully into shape.

Closer by, late fall and winter trout fishing is very consistent at Lake Amador near Ione, CA. About 40 miles east of Stockton this lake features the "cutbow" variety of trout, which grow large and fight well.

Laurie Lockhart from Lake Amador Resort says they have stocked 22,000 pounds of trout in the lake over the past 14 days. "These fish are very aggressive and the window will be opening soon," Lockhart says. ?? Lockhart further recommends using a float tube or kayak, and working the edges of the lake with a flyrod for the best results.

Derby participant Tom Dembski displays his 5.25-pound lingcod caught near New Years Island on the vessel "Polish Jig"??