Manzanita

[Rossflyguy]

Ill be camping up at manzanita during memorial day weekend. I have never fished it or fished the area. Has anyone got any information on what type of flies to fish the lake or maybe a stream close by? Anything would be helpful.

[mike borba]

Small wooly buggers in the standard colors. Damselfly nymphs. Callibaetis nymphs, and possibly dries. The water is very clear so long light leaders help. Fast stripping buggers on a sink-tip or sinking line early or late in the day will get you some fish. Mike

[Terry Imai]

You may want to check out some of the info from Brian Chan and Phil Rowley's websites because they provide some great stuff that would be applicable to Manzanita. I wouldn't take a trip there without a large selection of Pheasant Tail nymphs in 14-18 along with variations with weighted/unweighted and sparkle/mylar/conventional wing cases. If you get on the water early enough, you have the opportunity for some wonderful midge fishing. You can find the books and videos on the various techniques of fishing on stillwater.

The other thing to have is a few "deep water" quick release indicators. There are different models but they all have some type of "pegging" system to lock the leader. Since you can fish in over 15-20' water depths, the indicator will pop loose to slide down your leader to allow easier netting of your fish. A long handled net does help and do not over handle the fish to ensure minimal fish mortality.

Try to chase the fish that are rising and don't get stuck in one spot because you have to find their route. Also make sure you pinch your barbs down because there a ton of rangers who often do not know how to fish themselves and cannot understand what a pinched barb looks like... Bring a good pair of needle nose priers to keep yourself law abiding......

Good luck...

[Bill Kiene semi-retired]

In June they get an afternoon #16 Callibaetis may fly hatch.

Around the 4th of July at sunset they get a #10 Traveling Sedge (big motor boat caddis) hatch.