Stocking: The lake was stocked with 1,000 pounds of catfish last week. We’re stocking another 1,000 pounds of catfish the week of September 29th. So far, 6,500 pounds of catfish have been stocked this season. We’ll continue to stock catfish through October.

What’s the Catch? Fishermen reported a steady catfish bite last weekend, especially in the evenings and early mornings when they are cruising the shallows. Top spots have been Cloister Cove, Half Moon Cove, and along the buoy line, where fish are holding tight to structure. The most productive baits continue to be mackerel and dip baits or bait nuggets. Average catches are coming in between 2–4 pounds, with some larger fish mixed in. Night fishing remains the best time to target them, so don’t forget your lantern and plenty of bait.

Bass have been caught off Eagle Point, Cloister Cove, and along the shoreline near the t-dock. Look for shaded areas and underwater cover where bass are ambushing baitfish. Drop shot rigs with finesse worms in natural colors have been pulling in consistent catches.

Conditions: The current water temperature is 80 degrees at the surface. The aerator has been turned on, so the dissolved oxygen content is well mixed. See below for information regarding lake elevation. The days are getting shorter with the sun is rising at 6:33 a.m. and setting at 6:51 p.m. This Saturday will be the darkest night this month for fishing with the new moon on the 21st.

Starting this August, Helix Water District will temporarily lower the water level at Lake Jennings by approximately 15 feet. This draw down will allow for important construction work on the lake’s new aeration system, a key part of preparing for the arrival of purified water from the East County Advanced Water Purification Program (East County AWP). Stay tuned for any operational impacts. We will do our best to keep you informed.