At Nemo’s Fishing Guide Service, you’re not just booking a trip—you’re fishing with Captain John Chargualaf, a true local legend with over 50 years of experience. Born and raised in Guam and now based in Northern California, John has fished these waters since childhood. He’s licensed and bonded by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (License #2403) and has been a guide since 1997. Whether you're chasing bass, sturgeon, crappie, bluegill, or seasonal striper and shad, John knows where to go and how to get you hooked up. We fish Clear Lake, the Sacramento, Feather, and Yuba Rivers, plus hidden gems like Collins Lake, Bullards Bar, Holland’s Lake, the American River, and the Delta—up to two hours in any direction from the Yuba area. Our 20-foot boat is powered by a 350 V8 engine and comfortably fits up to four guests, offering a laid-back, personal experience. Every trip is designed to match your pace and experience level, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned angler. Expect a day full of fishing, learning, and soaking in the beauty of Northern California’s best waters. We provide the gear—you bring a hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, snacks, drinks, and dress for the weather. Kids 14 and under must wear a life vest (provided), and each angler needs a valid California fishing license. If you’re unsure how to get one, we’re happy to help. John’s easygoing style makes everyone feel welcome, and he’s always ready to share tips and local secrets that make for memorable catches. To reserve your trip, a 50% deposit is required. It’s non-refundable, but we’re flexible with rescheduling if you give at least three weeks’ notice. Cancellations within 48 hours of the trip—or no-shows without contact—will result in a lost deposit. Exceptions may be made in the rare case of mechanical issues with the boat; if that happens, John will notify you promptly and work to reschedule. A heartfelt thank you goes to my parents, Juan Chargualaf and Maria Cabrera Chargualaf, for their love, support, and the values that shaped this journey. Come fish with us—you’ll leave with more than just a catch.

EPSG:4269

Chinook Salmon

Salmon fishing opening 4th day

<div>The day's fishing was tough, but good! We got Mr. Royce Pierson a clean scales on 17 lbd female Chinook salmon. I'm seeing lots of fish!</div>

Chinook salmon caught by two people fishing in California

Chinook salmon caught while fishing in CA

Opening Day of Salmon Fishing 

<div>I caught a 19 lbs Chinook salmon on 07/16/2025 on opening day of Salmon season. I was anchor fishing and using spinners. </div>

<div>I was baitcasting using silvertron spinners.</div>

Photograph of a large rainbow trout caught while fishing in Olivehurst

Fresh Catch from Yesterday's Salmon Run

Shad

3 lbs Shad and last year's average

Last season’s shad run was one for the books. Our 2024 Feather River trips averaged 60 fish per boat in just 4.5 hours—steady action from start to finish. The standout catch? A massive 3 lb. 10 oz. American shad, putting up a fight that’ll be hard to forget.

Captain John tracked water clarity and river flow shifts daily, locking us into prime feeding lanes where the schools stacked up thick. Light spinning gear and flutter spoons did the trick, with clients getting nonstop hookups and plenty of doubles.

Whether you were a first-timer or a seasoned shad angler, last year’s bite was fast-paced, fun, and full of big hits. The 2025 run is right around the corner—don’t miss your chance to get in on the action.

Largemouth Bass

Current Conditions, Hot Bites & Pro Tips for Clear Lake Anglers

Fishing is heating up on Clear Lake, and now’s a great time to get out there! Water temps are hovering in the low 70s, and the bite has been solid across the board. Visibility is decent, with light algae starting to show in some areas but nothing that’s stopping the fish from feeding.

Bass are the main stars right now—post-spawn action is on, and they’re hitting hard around rocky points, docks, and submerged grass beds. Topwater lures are starting to produce early in the morning, while soft plastics and jigs are working well throughout the day. If you’re patient and methodical, you’ll likely get into some quality largemouth.

Crappie are stacking up around brush and dock pilings in 8 to 12 feet of water. Minnows and small jigs under floats are doing the trick, especially near Rattlesnake Island and Cache Creek. Expect steady action if you stay mobile and target structure.

Bluegill are active and biting, making it a great time to bring kids or beginners out. Use worms or small plastics near shallow weed lines and docks—simple setups are all you need for fun, consistent action.

Catfish are also starting to stir with the warming water. Chicken liver, stink bait, and cut mackerel have all been solid choices in deeper holes and along the rocky banks in the evening.

Don’t forget—anyone 14 or under must wear a life vest, and a valid California fishing license is required for adults. If you’re not sure how to get one, we’re happy to help before your trip.

Want to hit these hotspots with a local expert? Book a guided trip with Nemo’s Fishing Guide Service and fish with Captain John, who’s been guiding Clear Lake for 50 years. He knows exactly where to go and what’s biting.

Chinook Salmon caught while fishing in Olivehurst

2 big freshwater fish caught by angler in Olivehurst

Angler with big 23-inch fish caught in CA

A fisherman holding a large rainbow trout in Olivehurst

Fishing in Olivehurst with a 23-inch catch

Ready to make unforgettable memories on the water? Book your adventure today with Nemo’s Fishing Guide Service in Clear Lake and Northern California’s top rivers—where expert guidance meets thrilling catches!

Born in Guam, raised in California, Captain John Chargualaf brings over 50 years of fishing experience to the lakes and rivers of Northern California. At Nemo’s Fishing Guide Service, he offers guided trips on Clear Lake and the Sacramento, Yuba, and Feather Rivers—targeting bass, crappie, sturgeon, and seasonal striper and shad. With a comfortable 20-foot boat, small group sizes, and a relaxed, personalized approach, John tailors each trip to your pace and skill level—perfect for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. This service is built on a lifetime of fishing knowledge and the values passed down through family. A heartfelt thank you goes to my parents, Juan Chargualaf and Maria Cabrera Chargualaf, for their love, sacrifices, and encouragement. Book your trip with Nemo’s Fishing Guide Service and experience Northern California fishing with a local guide who knows the waters—and appreciates the roots that led him here.

Special thanks to sponsors Juan, Maria, Chargualaf. Johnson's Bait &amp; Tackle Silvertron Fishing Lures Captain John has spent the last 5 decades learning and re-learning all bodies of water described for different species that he has fished with the help of local fishermen and elders. My thanks to them all for some of them are not with us any longer. Dedicated to satisfy your goal as a fisherman or woman building history with family &amp; friends or better yet should you decide to book the boat for business trips or extended business advertisement this is one of the great ways to say thank you or to build new prospects, meet friends or explore the unknown parts of fishing that you don't know. Looking forward with gratitude to meeting you and serving you with all that I have and building history.

Check out our fishing spots! The red zone marks prime areas. We meet guests where it's comfortable and guide-accessible.

One of Northern California's Experienced Local Fishing Guides

Fishing License

Things to Do

Top Things to Do in California

California Fishing License

Clear Lake Fish

What Fish Can You Catch in Clear Lake California

Fish Frenzy

Expert-Guided NorCal Fishing: Lakes & Rivers

<h3>What types of fishing trips do you offer?</h3>Nemo’s Fishing Guide Service offers guided fishing trips on Sacramento, Feather, Yuba, Clear Lake, Collins Lake, Englebright Lake and Bullards Bar. Trips are tailored for up to 4 persons targeting species like bass, crappie, bluegill, sturgeon, striped bass, shad, trout, and catfish. Contact guide for a specific specie you don't see. <h3>How much does a fishing trip cost?</h3>Pricing varies based on trip length and location. Most trips require a 50% deposit to secure your spot. Visit our Rates page for current pricing, or contact us directly to get a custom quote based on your group size and desired trip. Anybody booking for 2 days or more may inquire for a discount. <h3>What's included in the fishing trip?</h3>All fishing trips include expert guidance from Captain John Chargualaf, a comfortable 20-foot boat, and all essential tackle and gear. You’ll also receive one-on-one instruction and access to proven fishing hotspots throughout designated fishing areas. <h3>What should I bring on my fishing trip?</h3>We recommend bringing a hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and wearing weather-appropriate clothing. You should also bring your own food and drinks. A valid California fishing license is required—we can assist you in getting one if needed, guide must be informed of any disabilities or if any guest can't swim. <h3>Do I need a fishing license?</h3>Yes, all anglers aged 16 and older must have a valid California fishing license. Kids under 14 must wear a life vest during the trip. If you don’t have a license yet, we can guide you through the process before your trip. <h3>When is the best time to go fishing?</h3>Fishing is productive year-round, but the best times are usually spring and fall for bass and crappie, and late spring through early summer for shad and striped bass. Sturgeon bite best in cooler months when river conditions are right. Follow updates and videos to hone-in specific date and time. Feel free to call or text for additional information - (530) 315-2457. <h3>How many people can join a trip?</h3>Our trips are designed for small, private groups of up to four people. This allows for a relaxed, personalized experience where everyone gets individual attention and instruction from the captain. <h3>What happens if I need to reschedule?</h3>You can reschedule your trip up to 3 weeks in advance. We require 48 hours' notice for short-term rescheduling; otherwise, you risk forfeiting your deposit. No-show no call, no consideration within 48 hours = no refund and loss of rescheduling, thank you. <h3>Where do we meet before the trip?</h3>Meeting spots vary depending on the best fishing conditions and waterbody for that day. We’ll confirm the exact location with you ahead of time to ensure a smooth start to your trip.

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