Smallmouth Bass

Shasta Lake is a premier destination for smallmouth bass in California, offering a diverse range of structure and depths that these feisty fish love. Spring and fall are prime times to target smallies here. During the spring spawn, look for rocky points and coves in the Pit River arm. Tubes and drop-shot rigs are effective for enticing spawning fish. As the water warms, smallmouths move deeper, relating to submerged timber and rocky ledges. Carolina rigs and deep-diving crankbaits can be productive in these areas. A local tip: pay attention to the thermocline during the summer months; smallmouths will often congregate just above it. The Pit River arm, with its clearer water, tends to hold a larger population of smallmouth bass compared to the Sacramento River arm. Be aware of fluctuating lake levels, which can impact fish location and access points. The Jones Valley boat ramp provides good access to the main body of the lake.