Third time out last night in a tube (sorry didn't give any reports earlier). Fished 2 1/2 hours and managed two fish (15" & 16") along with missing a couple other strikes. Flipped the tules in the South Lake near the beach. Fish came on an Ika and Reaper.

On the previous two trips I fished two hours each and caught 1 fish the first time and two the second.

Has anyone else fished the lake for bass? Also, since I live so close to the lake, I'll probably try to make it out at least once a week after work so if anybody else would like to go let me know!

I didn't think they allowed tubes in Merced? When did they change the rule?

FIT

PS how deep is the south lake?

my friend used to fish the lake with more tules, he said back in the day (7-8 years ago) he pulled out a 10 fish 50+ lb limit
David C

Samurai,

When does this lake open? I've called around, but believe it or not no one knows what the hours of operations are.

Also, reports @ ncbf.com have mentioned that the north lake has some fish, although from the sound of it seems to be scarce. Have you tried it?

-SRS

In reference to your questions - I don't know if there are hours of operation like they used to have. The guy who runs the little trailer who sells permits is almost never there and I have not seen anyone patrolling the lake.

Not too many people are there period so I don't think its going to matter if there are rules against tubes or not. I guess if I keep going, I'll find out.

As for the 10 fish 50lb limit...I think it is possible since I had a reliable source who fished it a few years ago tell me he pulled 7 fish in one day that ranged from 3 - 7 lbs. I have yet to catch a fish over 16" there yet but then again, I have only fished the lake for a total of 6 hours on three seperate occassions.

I'll keep you guys posted!

Todd

...and ended up catching 3 fish 10", 14", & 15" on zipper worms flipped into the tules. Also broke another fish off on the hookset - weird - I've never had my spiderwire break off so many times! (I've broken off a total of 5 fish on hooksets in the last three trips to Merced - I don't think I've broken off that many fish on the hookset in a year of fishing)

I just have to say the bass in Merced are extremely deep bodied. Even more so than Clear Lake fish. Can't wait to catch a big one!

Let me know next time you go and I will come up and meet ya. That is if you would like some company.

FIT

Sure it's the line, or is it them knots you're tying? (hee hee) Maybe I can give you some tips @ Sonoma to make 'em a little tighter.

Superlines have so little strech they have very poor shock resistance. For flipping/pitching or any other shortline presentation I think you're worse off with superlines.

Nico

..

.

I agree, they $uck on the short-line, even with a soft rod. On the other hand they do cut weeds and are fine for plumbing the depths with plenty of sensitivity. As for your Break-offs, BEWARE the sun, it kills 'em dead.

Tight lines,
Wade

Funny thing is I have been flippin' with the superlines since they hit the mass market (at least 6-7 years ago) and have had terrific success with them. In fact, my primary use for the superline is flippin'. Maybe it's because I normally use jigs and have been throwing plastics. I don't know. I'll give you guys my results soon.

Oh, FIT, I'll try to let you know the next time I'm planning on going. Maybe Monday but still have to figure out my schedule.