Donner Lake Fishing Report

Mackinaw are the main show right now at Donner, with trollers pulling big plugs… think Rapalas… down deep, around 100–110 feet. The east shore and the area near the main launch are producing best. Kokanee are just starting to wake up, holding at 35–40 feet. CDFW rainbow trout stocks are projected this week, which should boost action for shore casters. PowerBait and floating nightcrawlers remain top picks.

Surface temps start in the low 50s and climb a few degrees by afternoon. Water’s crystal clear, which is helping boat anglers spot depth transitions and structure. The best bite has been early, just before the sun pops.

The rainbow trout fishing at Donner remains good thanks to the cooling temperatures. The stockings in June and July are still providing plenty of catchable fish in the 12 to 15-inch range. The west side has been particularly productive with Powerbait or blown-up nightcrawlers off the bottom.

The Mackinaw bite continues to be slow as most trollers are heading to Tahoe. However, as fall approaches and the water temperature continues to drop, they should become more active (aim for early October). The kokanee bite has been solid, with small schools starting to form. They should be a viable target through October before the spawn. Water levels have dropped to 85 percent capacity.

Rainbow trout stockings are continuing at Donner, with another plant coming this week. Shore casters are floating live worms or PowerBait off the bottom throughout the day. Morning bites are coming on spinners and some flies. The Mackinaw trolling action has been good, but primarily for fish in the 5-6 pound range. Nothing reportedly much bigger lately.