Clear Lake Mussel Inspection

Hey there,

Has anyone here tried to use their kayak on Clear Lake with the mussel restrictions in place?  The municipal code is poorly written, and you can't tell whether or not a kayak loaded in the bed of a vehicle is required to get inspected, or whether it is exempt.  Does anyone know?  And, if you do, do you know how to go about getting the inspection?
I want to try for some crappie tomorrow if the weather cooperates, but don't want to be in violation.
Thanks,
Dane

No inspection on non motorized kayaks. Crappie fishing should be fun if you can find them. They should be bunched up so if you find one you will find a bunch. Try a 1/16 or 1/8 oz jighead with a small swimbait 2.5-3 inches. It will tempt the bigger ones to bite and you’ll probably get some bass too.

John,

thanks for the response.  I had read the statute, but that 8' modifier at the end could apply to just sailboats, or every boat mentioned.  I called the Department of Water Resources just now, and they confirm that you are correct.  I will post a fishing report if the weather holds and I get to go.
d

 

Always better to be safe about the regulations and get clarification than risk messing it up and getting it wrong.

No inspection on non motorized kayaks. Crappie fishing should be fun if you can find them. They should be bunched up so if you find one you will find a bunch. Try a 1/16 or 1/8 oz jighead with a small swimbait 2.5-3 inches. It will tempt the bigger ones to bite and you’ll probably get some bass too.

It looks like an AI or any kayak (over 8') with a sail would require an inspection. How/where would you get an inspection?

Most of the bait/tackle shops can do an inspection. I know they do at Limit Out in Clearlake Oaks.

But again, if no motor or sail, no need.

Great thread.

I’m headed to lake Sonoma tomorrow.  Hoping for my first 2021 (dinks count!) LMB.

I will have to be inspected.  I just double checked my kayak and it’s bone dry and clean.

I leave the hatches open while stored and I blow a fan inside the hull.

Good luck on the crappie.