Spring is the time all of us avid fishermen wait for each year. In Big Bear Lake, it's like fishing in a barrel. I know that sounds unreal to you that live 7,000 feet down the hill. However it is that good!

So if your ever in the neighborhood of the San Bernardino Mountains, don't miss this lake.

Fishing for trout at this altitude is different only because of the cold water. Did you know that the colder the water is, the better they bite? So the more you can brave the elements, the time to fish is now.

Of course everyone uses Rainbow Glitter Powerbait.

The only obstacle some have here is the bait freezing and settling to the bottom. However the dissolved oxygen level is spread at all levels in Spring so you might catch a trout anyway. When the bait freezes it is difficult for the hook to set.

I modify the bait for easier fishing.

I mix the Powerbait with Zekes white floating bait and it softens it up plus prevents freezing. I don't know where you can find Zekes white anymore, I bought a case a few years back. I also bend out the prongs of my treble a bit to protrude slightly on the final ball of bait.

I put a big egg sliding sinker and throw that sucker out as far as I can. I barely have time to set my pole down before I hook one. Limits are the rule not the exception.

You can fish 24/7 on the lake but the lake does not open until April 1st. That just means the Lake is not patrolled and the markers have not been put out. From shore is fine. I use a 2 1/2 foot leader and it works great.

You can get my popular "Fishing Notes" FREE this year at Bear Valley News. It has tips and a hotspot map of the lake. I also have a FREE bonus fish cooking book to enjoy.

Remember to tie good knots and set your drag for that big one. I landed an 11 pounder last Spring.

David

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