FAQs

When is the best time to fish on Clear Lake?

This is a common question and there really is no exact answer. Clear Lake produces quality fish year-round, the only thing that changes is how you catch them (that is an understatement!)

In general, spring tends to be the most productive and exciting time for bass fishing, so anytime mid-March through mid-June is a solid choice.

Personally I love to be out June-August when the tournament activity starts to ease up.

See my seasonal guide to Clear Lake for more info.

Do you guide on any other lakes?

I only guide on Clear Lake at this time.

I am planning a trip to Clear Lake. Where should I stay?

There are several places to stay around the lake, from hotels and resorts, to campgrounds, to AirBnB rentals. Some are *definitely* better than others. As a full service guide, I can help you with finding the right place for you – just contact me and I’ll help get you going in the right direction.

Also, see my accomodations page for more info.

I need to cancel or reschedule a booking. How do I do this?

Rescheduling is no problem, just contact me to discuss next available dates. If you need to cancel a date completely, you will forfeit your booking deposit.

See more on my services page.

What do I need to bring?

The only thing you are absolutely required to bring is a valid California state fishing license for each angler. We can’t go fishing without it!

If you don’t have one you can get one instantly here: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Licensing/Online-Sales

There are some other items I strongly recommend:

·         Polarized sunglasses – these will help you see through the water.

·         Sunscreen, sun gear, hats – during the summer months.

·         Rain gear, warmer clothing – during the spring, fall and winter.

·         Lunch, snacks, and beverages - as desired (no alcohol)

Everything else will be provided by me!

What if the weather doesn’t look good for my trip?

I fish most trips rain or shine…fishing can actually be great in the rain!

There is an exception for high winds, thunderstorms, and dense smoke - these are all no-go situations. In these events, I will contact you as soon as possible to reschedule to a more favorable day. Under no circumstances will I take clients out in potentially dangerous or unhealthy conditions.

How many people can fit on your boat?

A maximum of two (2) guests are allowed per trip. This is primarily for safety reasons, but also because it is difficult to instruct more than 2 anglers at once.

Can children and pets join?

Children ages 12 and up are welcome. Anyone under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

I love pets, but unfortunately I do not allow them on the boat for safety reasons.

Can I bring my own tackle?

I have all the gear you’ll need to catch fish, whether you’re left or right handed, short or tall, or prefer either spinning or casting reels.

You are still absolutely welcome to bring your own equipment - many people do as it’s more comfortable for them. Whether we use it or not will depend on what the fish are biting on that day, and if your gear is appropriate for the situation. Your best bet is to let me know in advance that you want to fish with your own gear, and we can go from there.

Where and when do we meet for our trip?

I will call you a day or two prior to your trip; at that time we will agree on a meeting time and location. Start time varies by season…in the summer months, I usually recommend we start quite early (at or before dawn).

I frequently launch out of the County Park near Kelseyville or at one of the Lakeport marinas off of Main Street. If you’re staying at a place that has an accessible dock, let me know – I may be able to pick you up directly from there to save time.

I want to learn a specific technique. Will there be time for one on one instruction?

Absolutely! Tell me what you are interested in learning and we will make time for it!

Do you book winter trips?

I will book select days during the winter. Winter days, while much slower-paced, do have their advantages – significantly less boat traffic, less fishing pressure, and of course, the chance for a trophy fish! It is also a great time to get out there and practice fishing slower and more selectively.

Please contact me if you are interested.

Do you book catfish or panfish trips?

My focus is primarily on bass fishing year-round, but Clear Lake is also a great fishery for catfish, crappie and bluegill. If you’re interested in fishing for these species, let me know and I’ll see what I can arrange.

Do you offer lake tours?

Yes! As a certified tourism ambassador (CTA) for Lake County, I’m one of only a few guides that offer complete lake tours, whether it is for sight-seeing, birdwatching, photography, or if you just want to know more about Clear Lake and the surrounding region.

Do you stop for lunch and bathroom breaks?

On full day trips, it is your choice when/where to stop for lunch. Let me know when you are ready to stop and we can take a break. There are also a few restaurants right on the water, if you’re interested in doing that just let me know.

For half day trips I typically don’t stop for lunch in order to maximize your fishing time. My clients usually snack as we are motoring from spot to spot.

Can I keep the fish I catch?

My trips are catch and release only. This helps to maintain the lake’s healthy population of bass.

Upon request, your fish may be kept in the live well for photos at the end of the day except for a nesting/bedding fish, which MUST be released immediately where it was caught.

What can I expect from a day of bass fishing with you?

First and foremost, I will always go above and beyond to make sure you have a great experience here on Clear Lake.

For new bass anglers…You will be active, and you will be challenged! Those new to bass fishing often expect to cast a line and crack open a beverage while waiting for a bite. While that often works for other species, catching bass requires anglers to be very engaged and focused at all times.

My clients also do all the fishing (and catching) themselves. I do not pick up a rod unless I’m providing instruction (demonstrating how to cast, lure presentation, etc.) I will simply be there to operate the boat and point you in the right direction.

Do you post fishing reports or videos?

Yes, but not regularly because it takes up a significant amount of time to do, when I’d rather be out on the water.

I usually update my blog once or twice per season to summarize how the fishing has been, along with some relevant thoughts and musings by me. I also try to post recent personal and client catches there.

You can also follow me on Instagram for more timely updates.