The federal agency that regulates water releases from the Shasta Dam in Northern California drastically cut those releases in November, and one fisheries group is afraid that the move could have killed millions of eggs laid by fall-run chinook salmon in the Sacramento River below the dam.

Fishing opportunities are narrowing as we wait for rain along the coast and ice on the Sierra lakes.  Delta striper bite has slowed down but there is hope for a rebound. Sturgeon appear to be ready to start entertaining anglers in San Pablo Bay and the South Bay, but the action during next week’s tides will be more telling. On the plus side, it appears Berryessa has turned over, bringing trout closer to the surface along with the shad. Bass are in the mix. Clear Lake is deserted but bass are all over live minnows and crankbaits. Eagle Lake was rated excellent last week and even better this week. Plus, party boats from Morro Bay to Bodega Bay get limits every time out. Here are this week’s Best Bites:

The following lakes, rivers, streams and ponds this week will receive plants of catchable trout from the California Department of Fish & Wildlife: