The lake is ice free and the fishing has been pretty good

Manzanita Lake - CA (Madera County)


by The Fly Shop
5-9-2024
Website

The lake is ice free and the fishing has been pretty good according to the smiles on the anglers coming through the shop the last week. You won't be able to launch a boat due to the snow, but there is a ton of good access from shore. Look for trout cruising the shallows looking for protein. There should be plenty of Damselfly and Dragonfly nymphs scooting around, we'd suggest some Damseleeches for a good day at Manzanita. No real need for a sinking line yet. Bring your stash of Pheasant Tails and Adams, these early fish should be super hungry. Come fish one of the most epic spots in NorCal!

Pay attention to the special regulations here, especially where you can and can't fish. Barbless hooks, artificial lures, catch and release. Make sure you inquire at the park entrance.

Hot Flies: 

Dry Flies:
Harrop's Last Chance - #16-20
Adams - #14-18
Mayfly Cripple - #18
Last Chance Cripple - Callibaetis or Baetis
Mercer's Missing Link - #14-16
Mercer's Parachute Profile Spinner

Nymphs/Wet Flies:
Zack's Attack Damsel
Burk's Sierra Damsel
Zack's Bomb Squad. - #14-16
Hogan's S&M - Olive #16-18
Beaded Zebra Midge - Black #18-20
Mercer's Gidgets

Streamers & Leeches:
Beaded Micro Bugger - Black
Zonkers - #4
Beaded Micro Buggers - Any