Lake Berryessa Fly Fishing Report

John Feaster of Feaster Fly Fishing reports on March 29th, 2025

Lake Berryessa Fishing Report - March 2025
By Local Guide Johnny Feaster

Water Temperature: 55° to 58°
Target Species: Bass
Fishing Method: Float and Fly
Leader Length: 6 to 9 feet

Fishing Overview: As spring storms come and go, bass are beginning their prespawn, causing shifts in their location patterns. The larger fish are already on their beds, marking their territory, which signals the official arrival of spring. This is the perfect time of year for both boat and bank anglers to get out and enjoy the waters.

Techniques & Gear:
● The Float and Fly method is my preferred technique on the lake.
● For fly selection, the Black Leech and Williams Wagasaki from North Valley Fly Fishing have been producing excellent results. 
● A 6 to 9- foot leader is working best to keep your presentation in the strike zone at the proper depth.

Fishing Patterns & Tips:
● You are looking for consistent flats, with the high waters and storms pushing through, the fish are
beginning to move into the trees and debris.
● The second drop-off around 8 to 15 feet is a prime spot. These areas are often overlooked but can hold
a lot of fish this time of year.
● I’ve been having most of my success inside the Markley and Pleasure cove areas.

Bonus Species:
● This is also the time when you might encounter Trout while targeting Bass with the float and fly rig.
● The trout takes are subtle, make sure to set on everything!
● Attention all carp enthusiasts! The carp are starting to surface, so keep your eyes peeled!

Conservation Issues:
Golden mussel awareness continues! Golden mussels have started showing up in California's reservoirs, and local water agencies are taking action. A quarantine has been put in place to try and slow their spread, with decontamination stations set up at Steel Park and Markley Cove. Please remember to clean your boat thoroughly, especially if you're moving between different bodies of water, like from the Delta to any freshwater lake. It’s crucial to help prevent the spread of these invasive species.

Hot Tip:
● Around this time, the fish become more active, so don’t hesitate to cast a bit farther from the points than you normally would. Think of it as targeting “no man’s land” – that’s often where you’ll find the bigger fish fattening up right now.