Donner Lake is steady for all species this week

Donner Lake - Truckee, CA (Nevada County)


by Mountain Hardware & Sports
9-18-2025
(530) 587–4844
Website

Donner Lake is steady for all species this week. Kokanee are schooling around 50 feet, and anglers trolling small spoons or hoochies tipped with corn are connecting. Macks are hanging deeper, mostly around 120 feet, and they’re taking bigger plugs and spoons worked slowly. Rainbows remain the best bet for bank anglers, especially at China Cove and the west-end ramps, with worms, PowerBait, and spinners producing fish. Shore action is consistent in the mornings and evenings. The main challenge here is midday boat traffic, which slows the bite, but if you hit it early or stay late, you’ll find solid results. Rainbows are averaging 12–15 inches, while deepwater macks give anglers a chance at larger fish. Donner continues to be a reliable option for both bank fishing and trolling, making it a versatile stop for anglers this week.




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