A number of anglers including Bob Moad of Redding have reported improving bass numbers at Trinity Lake, especially around the Trinity Center and the north end tailings. Bob reported good numbers of smallies to 6 pounds hitting a wide variety of baits including gitzits and plastic worms. Bob's key was the color pink, even a pink vein along a plastic worm would entice a strike.

Other reports have anglers finding some success in the same area using swimbaits.  It looks as if the spring bite is finally taking hold. With a warming trend and a little less rain in the forecast, this week should produce some decent fishing in the area.  Trinity continues to rise and warm weather should continue to bring lake levels up. Launching will not be a problem this year. Trout anglers should concentrate around tributary inlets like Stuart's Fork for the best success.  

With the improvements made along Highway 299 west of Redding, the drive and towing of a boat over Buckhorn Summit is much easier and faster.  Trinity should no longer be the sleeper fishery for large bass, especially for smallmouth that it has always been. When full, there is not a prettier reservoir  in the north state.

Gary Heffley has been a valued contributor to MyOutdoorBuddy for over 10 years serving as manager, sales representative and reporter for much of Northern California. He is an avid outdoorsman and loves to fish and write about his adventures. He has a long history in the Sporting Goods field and uses that extensive experience to impart his wisdom in his writing.