THE IRIDEUS - APRIL 2021
Fishing Manzanita Lake
I
have been fishing Manzanita Lake every year for about the past decade, and I’d like share my experiences with you. Before I retired, I got very little fishing time in the Spring, so I have fished Manzanita from July through late October. I have a friend who fishes damsel nymphs in the Spring with great success. Recently the GPFF Board has discussed exploring more stillwater options, and Manzanita is a great place for someone to try if they are just starting stillwater trout fishing. The lake contains wild rainbows and browns that run typically from 12” up to about 18”, although I’ve caught a few fish over 20”.
By Bob Fabini
Manzanita Lake is located in Lassen Park East of Shingletown just off Hwy 44. Burney is only about an hour away, so going to Manzanita puts you in the heart of great fishing country with lots of other options. The lake has extensive camping and services. There are 4 campgrounds, one for tents only, Loop D, which is where I stay. There is a store and shower facilities before the campgrounds. If you are camping there, you can walk to the lake, or drive down to the boat launch area. Only people-powered watercraft are allowed on the Lake and although it is possible to wade fish, some watercraft will put you over many more fish. I always fish from a float tube. You can rent kayaks at the launch area. Given the location, there are great options for the non-
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