O'Neill Forebay
Merced County Bass, Catfish, Sunfish, Carp
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O'Neill Forebay Fishing Report

View the latest O'Neill Forebay fishing report updates for current conditions, tips, and updates.

Trip Report
75°F with Light Breeze
Mixed

Went to the Forebay with my son. He caught a 16" striper, too small. I caught a 3 lb Largemouth 18" both on top water lures.

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Good Striped Bass bite
Striped Bass

O'Neill is producing a solid striper bite right now, with fish keying in on bait around grass flats and the bridge area. Topwater action has been spotty, with most fish feeding just below the surface. Bladed jigs and lipless crankbaits have been most effective, especially when ripped through grass or slow-rolled near bait schools. The LV500 has...

O'Neill is producing a solid striper bite right now, with fish keying in on bait around grass flats and the bridge area. Topwater action has been spotty, with most fish feeding just below the surface. Bladed jigs and lipless crankbaits have been most effective, especially when ripped through grass or slow-rolled near bait schools. The LV500 has been a top producer, with both burning and yo-yo retrieves working well. Shad-patterns are getting the most attention. Covering water has been key to staying on active fish, as they are constantly roaming.

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Fair Striped Bass bite
Striped Bass
Stained

The striper bite at O’Neill has been decent, but it’s taken effort to find fish. Stripers have been scattered in smaller groups, with surface boils rare. Most fish are solid keepers (19–22 inches), with very few undersized shakers. Water clarity isn't great, so noisy, flashy lures have been the best. Chatterbaits are working well in grassy areas...

The striper bite at O’Neill has been decent, but it’s taken effort to find fish. Stripers have been scattered in smaller groups, with surface boils rare. Most fish are solid keepers (19–22 inches), with very few undersized shakers.

Water clarity isn't great, so noisy, flashy lures have been the best. Chatterbaits are working well in grassy areas, along with loud crankbaits and even some topwater action. The fish have been hitting in small packs, not big schools, so covering water is key.

The early 4:30 PM closure is cutting off what could be a very good evening bite, but afternoons can still be productive.

6 anglers found this report useful
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