Water Conditions: New Melones Lake is currently holding 2,271,572 acre-feet of water. The lake level rose six feet again this week and is currently at 1076 ft. above sea level and 12 ft. from full capacity. It is now 6 feet lower than the highest it has ever been (in 1998 it reached 1085 feet). Water temperature is a balmy 76-80 degrees. Water is lightly stained with mud lines near shore. Watch for floating debris and unmarked island tops.
Bass: Fair action. Throw top-water lures in the morning and evening hours. Spinnerbaits, jigs and Senkos will work better in the heat of the day. Target the backs of creek arms and protected pockets off the main lake in the early morning, with swimbaits such as Lunker Punkers, Toad Thrashers, Super Spooks, and Pencil Poppers. Later in the day, target main lake points with Senkos, jigs or other larger-profile soft plastics. Remember to practice catch and release.