New Melones report 5/8

I was going to hit Berry again today but decided to try Melones, since they are starting to get limits and I just wanted sometign different with a better chance at Kokanee, despite the 1hour longer drive.
I launched at the 49 Bridge (it's free and I'm a cheap-ass) where I did well last June. I tired 4 different lures at depths of 15' to 45'. No bites for 3 1/2 hours and I was heading back skunked .
Then I got a nice 17" rainbow at 35', then another smaller one a short while later. Both were on a custom chartreuse-yellow lure that Kevin (Plug n Jug) gave me a couple years ago. It hasn't been that great for Kokanee, but it has hooked many trout. It may be my best trout lure. Literally a gift that keeps on giving.

Nice - way to get around.   

Good on you for getting out there 👍

Thanks for the report. I thought you would be at Whiskey this week.

Didn't know about the launch off hwy 49. Is it actually free or do they not check it? I already have a parking warning from Bureau of Rec so playing it safe since then. TIA

Didn't know about the launch off hwy 49. Is it actually free or do they not check it? I already have a parking warning from Bureau of Rec so playing it safe since then. TIA

I’m 98% sure it’s free. I’ve never paid and there are usually other cars there, with people shore fishing or kayak launching. I have not seen a pay station. Sign says Hand launch only, have to wheel yaks on dirt around concrete picnic tables. Can park on side of paved road. Sometimes gate at top is locked in the AM and you have to wheel a lot further. Currently the Kokanee are not there but they were there last year in late May and June.