Spring ice fishing at Caples Lake

LOCATION: Caples Lake, Calif., which is situated along California S.R. 88, between Kit Carson Pass and the Kirkwood Ski Resort.

HOW TO GET THERE: Drive south from the Carson City area for about 50 miles on a combination of U.S. 395, Nevada S.R. 88 and California S.R. 88.

WHERE TO FISH: There are two dams at Caples Lake. Fish in front of the dam nearest to Carson City.

HOW TO FISH: Dig a small hole (eight inches or less in diameter) with an ice auger, and then jig, just off the bottom, with either small shiny lures. Bait fishermen should use a combination of large nightcrawlers and corn or the nightcrawlers with Power Bait.

WHAT YOU'LL CATCH: Lahontan cutthroat, cutbow (a hybrid crossbreed between a male Lahontan cutthroat trout and a female rainbow trout), Eastern brook, German brown, Mackinaw (lake) or rainbow trout.

Most commonly, you'll catch mostly average-sized rainbow trout.

SPECIAL REGULATIONS: The lake limit is five trout, regardless of species.

SPECIAL REGULATIONS: You must wear your California fishing license where it is readily visible above the waist.

SPECIAL NOTE: Prior to venturing out onto the ice, check at the Caples Lake Resort to verify that the thickness of the ice is safe enough to walk on.

FOR INFORMATION: Call the Caples Lake Resort at 209-258-8888 or Bruno Huff at Bruno's Guide Service at 916-694-2145.