Brawny Cal's Fishing Report

Anonymous asked: Is the wood/charcoal ban still in effect? I planning a trip soon to Calaveras or Braunig and wood like to make arrangement ahead of time.

As of Dec. 6 the ban has been extended for another 90 days. Wood fires are banned by the county; charcoal fires are banned by the park management. Only propane grills are permitted at Braunig and Calaveras. A fire extinguisher or bucket of water should be at hand when grilling.

Catfish biting

Went out about a week ago and caught a good 2 pounder from the bank, using a 1 ounce weight, #5 circle hook and yeh monn crawfish bait.

Anonymous asked: Any reports on what people been catching at both lakes?

Mostly catfish.

Anonymous asked: So, where can I get bait to fish with at Braunig or Calaveras lake? I am considering fishing both lakes next week, but I am concerned about finding bait. Please respond ASAP, thanks!

Both parks have a store that carries night crawlers, frozen shrimp, shad, and chicken liver as well as artificial bait.

Also I’ve heard that if you thaw out the chicken livers they come back to life. ;-)

Anonymous asked: My daughter (6 yrs. old) and I are planning to head out to the lake tomorrow (Sat. 11/19/2011). Is there much bank fishing there at Braunig? I don't have a boat and we just want to hang out, and have a good time. If we catch anything that will be a bonus.

There is quite a bit of shoreline and the crowds are not as big this time of year. There is a spot down toward Dead Tree Point (ask when you come in) where there is some concrete at the water’s edge that looks like an upside down canoe. That’s a good spot to catch perch, a smaller fish. Have fun!

Anonymous asked: When do the hybrids strippers start getting active at Braunig?

Fishing in 2011 has been “screwy” at best. Blame it on the drought, weather conditions, I don’t know why. Hybirds by normal means should start moving soon, however this year that may not be true. Large mouth Bass right now will be found in shallow water…the shad and other bait fish are in the shallows and the Bass will follow. Throw crank baits and topwater luresearly in the morning….Good Luck!

Anonymous asked: Looking at taking the boat or the kayak to braunig or cally this week for red fish or hybrids which ever is hotter and which ever lake is hotter. Any idea where to fish and what to use.

The reds have been running near the wall and the dam near the kayak launch at Calaveras recently. Most reports on the reds are with spoons, rat-l-traps, and cut bait. Not sure about Braunig recently.

“No Fishing” Signs Replaced at Calaveras

The “No Fishing” signs have been replaced at the kayak launch point at Calaveras Lake. Fishing is prohibited in and to the south of the launch area.

Anonymous asked: there seems to be alot of fisherman fishing the shorline near the kayak and small boat ramp off of calaveras. this becomes difficult to launch bevause lines are all over the place. tempers can fly if lines are crossed. my question why is this area not a no fishing zone as it is at brauning lake.

We are looking into replacing the “No Fishing” signs that were stolen.

Anonymous asked: I have a boat, where should I start on the lake to catch catfish with the water temp around 90. I was out with a friend last week and we only had 2 fish in 6 hours.

Fishing Braunig and Calaveras Lakes this time of year does have its challenges. The Redfish are about to end their run and the Catfish are slow biting in current temperature, however you can still have a productive time. Catfish are normally found all over Calaveras, however you have to find spots were they are active. Right now I would think they are most active on the “Wall”….Tie your boat on the Wall and throw lines to the other side. Suggest using shrimp and tilapia as baits….Good Luck!