Stocking: The lake was stocked with 1,000 pounds of catfish the week of July 28th. We’re stocking another 1,000 pounds of catfish the weeks of August 18th and September 8th, so plan visits around those dates to take advantage of fresh fish. We’ll continue to stock catfish through October.

What’s the Catch? Evening bites have been particularly strong, targeting catfish up to 6 pounds near Sentry Point, Siesta Cove, and Half Moon Cove. The most effective baits include mackerel, chicken liver, or shrimp. Larger catfish are staging near deeper drop-off areas. Prime action starts at dusk! 

Bass

The bass are active early morning and evening, particularly toward the backs of coves. Anglers report success with topwater lures and Senkos cast in shallow areas. In the afternoon, bass will tend to retreat into deeper structure. 

Panfish

What is biting in the heat of the day? All species of panfish! Bluegill and Readear will be in shallow shaded coves around the lake. Try fishing with meal worms or pieces of red worms. Use a split shot about 6-12 inches above a hook with a bobber about 12-24 inches above the hook (more if fish are deeper). Thread a worm on a small hook-size 8-12.

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. The sun is rising at 6:07 a.m. and setting at 7:41 p.m. 

Starting this August, Helix Water District will temporarily lower the water level at Lake Jennings by approximately 15 feet. This drawdown 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.