Premium Kokanee Fishing at Whiskeytown Lake

Kokanee Fishing on Whiskeytown Lake

Looking for a laid-back day on the water with a chance to reel in some tasty kokanee? Our West Redding Lake Kokanee Fishing Charter is just the ticket. We'll spend 7 hours cruising the pristine waters of Whiskeytown Lake, tucked away in the hills west of Redding. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod, our guides know all the sweet spots to put you on the fish. Hop aboard our comfy 20' Jetcraft and get ready for a day of scenic views, wildlife spotting, and of course, some exciting kokanee action.

What to Expect on the Water

As soon as you step on board, you'll feel right at home. Our 20' Jetcraft is kitted out for a day of fishing comfort - plenty of room to move around, shade from the California sun, and all the gear you need to land some kokanee. We'll cruise out to some of our favorite fishing holes, taking in the stunning scenery of Whiskeytown Lake along the way. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles and ospreys - they're often out fishing too!

No need to worry about permits or equipment - we've got all that covered. Just bring your sense of adventure and maybe a snack or two. Our guides are local experts who live and breathe these waters. They'll get you set up with the right tackle, show you the ropes if you're new to kokanee fishing, and share some local stories that'll have you feeling like a Whiskeytown insider by the end of the day.

Trolling for Kokanee

Kokanee fishing is all about finesse and patience. We'll be trolling - that means slowly dragging our lines behind the boat as we cruise. It's a relaxed way to fish that gives you plenty of time to chat, take in the scenery, and wait for that exciting moment when a fish hits your line.

We use light tackle and small lures to entice these landlocked salmon. Your guide will set you up with the perfect rig - usually a combination of flashers, dodgers, and small spoons or hoochies. Don't worry if that sounds like gibberish now - by the end of the day, you'll be talking kokanee lingo like a pro!

The key to kokanee success is finding the right depth. These fish like cool water, so we'll be using downriggers to get our lures down where the fish are hanging out. Your guide will be constantly checking the fish finder and adjusting our depth to stay in the strike zone. When a kokanee hits, it's game on! These feisty little fish put up a great fight for their size, and the first run when they realize they're hooked is always a thrill.

Target Species

Kokanee salmon are the stars of the show on Whiskeytown Lake. These landlocked cousins of sockeye salmon were introduced to the lake years ago and have thrived in its cool, clear waters. Kokanee typically run 12-16 inches long, with some trophy fish pushing 20 inches. They're known for their bright silver sides and blue-green backs, which turn vibrant red during spawning season.

What makes kokanee so popular? For one, they're absolutely delicious. Their flesh is a bright orange-pink, similar to wild sockeye, with a rich, buttery flavor that's hard to beat. They're also a blast to catch. Despite their size, kokanee put up an impressive fight when hooked. Their acrobatic jumps and fast runs will keep you on your toes.

The best time to target kokanee on Whiskeytown is from mid-June to late July. As the water warms up, these fish school up in the cooler, deeper parts of the lake. This is when our knowledge of the lake really pays off - we know exactly where to find those productive pockets of cool water where the kokanee are hanging out.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about Whiskeytown Lake that keeps folks coming back year after year. Maybe it's the crystal-clear water that makes you feel like you can see forever. Or the way the surrounding hills create a perfect backdrop for a day on the water. For many, it's the peaceful vibe - even on busy days, Whiskeytown never feels crowded.

But let's be honest - it's the kokanee that really seal the deal. These fish are the perfect combination of fun to catch and delicious to eat. And because they're not native to the lake, you can feel good about keeping a few for the dinner table. Nothing beats grilling up your catch at the end of a great day on the water.

Our private charters are perfect for families, groups of friends, or even corporate outings. With a max of 2 guests per boat, you'll get plenty of personal attention from your guide. And if you've got a bigger group, no problem - we can bring in additional guides and boats to accommodate everyone.

Time to Book Your Spot

Ready to experience some of the best kokanee fishing Northern California has to offer? Our West Redding Lake Kokanee Fishing Charter runs from June 15 to July 25, right when the fishing is at its peak. But here's the catch - these trips fill up fast. Locals and returning guests often book their spots months in advance, so if you've got your eye on a specific date, don't wait to lock it in.

Remember, everything you need for a great day of fishing is included - from rods and reels to bait and licenses. All you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and maybe a cooler for your catch). Whether you're looking to learn the ins and outs of kokanee fishing or just want to spend a relaxing day on the water with a chance at some great fish, we've got you covered.

So what are you waiting for? Give us a call or shoot us an email to check availability. We're always happy to answer any questions you might have about the trip. Trust us, once you experience kokanee fishing on Whiskeytown Lake, you'll be hooked. See you on the water!