Shasta houseboat/yak trip

Years ago I went up with a bunch of guys to Shasta for a few days, and we rented a houseboat and tooled around Shasta. Fishing where ever we wanted and using the houseboat for a mothership. Did it twice. It was a couple of the most memorable trips I've had. The rates are still lower until May, and the fishing and weather is great then. The trout and the bass are both on at this time of year.  If we could get 10 or more yak fisherfolks to commit to a three night weekend it could be a gas. We could strap some yaks ontop and tow some behind. Once we get to a good area, bail out on the yaks and have at it. I'd be happy to set it up if enough people could commit to it to make it feasable. So anyone interested? Probably cost around $250-$300ish each, depending on participation,  including boat rental, food and gas. If I get enough interest, I'll research and come up with more accurate figures.

I am all ready there May 17th Thur the 20th. Got a houseboat out of Silverthorn Resort.
Houseboat trips are a blast but can be expensive with gas on the rise who knows what that will cost. Keep the RPM's about 1000 and they seem to get better mileage. If I weren't allready going I'd be in.

Sounds great ...I'm in....Danglin

I had to stop boat-in camping along the shoreline at Shasta Lake about 5 years ago ever since bears learned they can secure food by climbing on board houseboats anchored along the shore, (including your kayak), which  has become a growing problem. Bears are particularly a problem on the Squaw Creek Arm because it is a popular retreat for houseboats, and is in a remote area on the lake.

Here’s a good map of the lake: http://shastalake.com/locate/index.html

Be sure to keep all of your food secured on airtight containers while camping, or anchoring your boat from along the shore to prevent bears from entering your craft in search of food and keep all of your blood soiled clothes in a sealed plastic garbage bag. If possible I would clean, and cook food away from the location where you are moored.  Don’t be surprised if you wake up with a furry friend, and I’m not talking about Bigfoot either.

If I were you, I would continue driving further east about 35 miles on Hwy 299 to Big Bend Road, and then drive another 20 miles north through the switch backs to Iron Canyon Reservoir. This is one of my favorite camping, paddling and fishing destinations in California.

Iron Canyon Reservoir.

No Bears?

Unfortunately there are bears at Iron Canyon Reservoir.

Ive been to Iron canyon before, I had to change a tire at a way crazy angle and decent on the 4 wheele road by the dam,great fishing but I didnt get on the water, its close to the Pit river, a killer place to fish for wild bows, lots of snags, free access. Iron canyon would be a great camp dest. for ncka
Or Shasta!

I like to camp at a semi-primitive area east of Lakeshore.  Costs I think about $12/day, maybe more.  Gets crazy around memorial day with partiers.  Bass fishing is decent in that area, but you might have to paddle a long way to find trout or landlocked kings.  Let me know if you decide on a more low-key trip. 

Right now this is simply a feeler to see if there's enough interest to invest the effort to put it on. I'm always up for a camp trip too, but this is pure fun with a lot more convenences and comforts. Just testing the waters is all...

I have 2 houseboats rented april 18-22nd at Oroville. We will be bringing bass boats, tin cans and yaks. I am posting because any of you on the fence for a H-boat Shasta trip, JUMP ON IT. It is a great way to relax and get some time on the water.

Jonesz = count me in brother 

Houseboat fishing trips are the best!
I've only done Shasta once (due to the distance from Monterey) but would like to do it again soon. I usually go to Don Pedro or New Melones.

I am interested. Let us know when you have more specific info...potential dates, cost, etc.

This is a Great idea jonesz!

I'll do a little more recon in the next few days and I'll put up some more accurate numbers on the cost estimates. Hopefully we can get enough interest. I'm telling ya, this is a great time. It's great to go out from the mother boat anytime you feel like and come back to a nice meal cooking, Have a few brews, and just hang. Usually I like to motor to a good area, then bail out and bang em.  Easy to stay in contact with radios and cell phones.

I did a houseboat trip on Shasta back in '84 with my uncle and his wild crew - what a blast!  Nice info on Iron Canyon, SkyGreen, but I think testosterone/hedonism are a factor here!!  Telling a man that a bear might foul his trip is like inviting him to a beer party!  JK of course.  Houseboat trips and camping are both alot of fun.   

I'm interested to join this trip!