Arrived at McDowell Lake about 12:00 and walked into the north end
through the campground (about 1/4 mile). Water level down 3-4 feet and
launching float tube would have been tough. Drove around to SE end where launching was much easier except for the steep 200 ft access from the parking area. Caught 8 rainbows 11-15in on chironomids and waterboatman and wooleybuggers. This is a very shallow lake at this time of year and I would guess no more than 12 ft deep. Weather cool in low 50's and wind was variable from calm to 10 mph. For their size the fish were not good fighters but this may be different in the Spring. I will return next spring to fish McDowell and Bailey and try my new found love of chironomid fishing.

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