Halsey Forebay in Placer County: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  Within Placer County, California, you have Halsey Forebay. Land around it is pine and hardwood. Surface area runs to about 18 acres — small enough to read in one session. The nearest town is Meadow Vista, 2.2 miles away. It is 21 miles to Roseville, the nearest city. Two sets of local rules meet not far from this water.

• Where to Fish on Halsey Forebay

  Depth is not on record here, so the bank has to tell you. Built water gives depth close in, which suits a bank angler. Draw-down through summer strips the margins, so follow the water out. Across Placer County, recorded fish include sockeye salmon, rainbow trout, tahoe sucker, brook trout and bluegill. At least one recorded species is protected in parts of its range; read the local rules before targeting anything. Read Halsey Forebay for ten minutes before the first cast goes out.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Seasonal averages run from 45°F in January up to 76°F in July. Summer heat is the limit here, not winter cold. Late winter and spring fish steadiest here. March through May is the strongest run, with October and November a second stretch. Plan any trip to Halsey Forebay around it.

• Tackle & Baits

  Whether you may fish here is not something records settle. The nearest mapped parking is half a mile away, so the last stretch is on foot. Light line and small metal for the trout; a fly rod earns its place on calm evenings. Ask in the nearest town if you are unsure. Access can change hands, so last year's answer may not hold. Lake Arthur at 0.9 miles is the sensible second choice. Rules at Halsey Forebay are worth checking on the day.