Hi Genene, and welcome to the Stage! I drive down to Merced to fish Lake McSwain. Just the other side of Snelling, Merced Falls Road turns into Lake McClure Road,and right before you get to the lake there's a road (Hornitos Road) that goes over the Merced River. I see folks fishing from the bank and off the bridge. Don't know what they're catching but it sure looks like catfish country to me. I fish for trout, but there's all kinds of bank access on McSwain, and it sure looks like there'd be catfish in there. And I've never fish lake McClure which is just up the road, but I'd sure be giving that a try also. All very close to you in Merced. Good luck. And be sure to let us know how you do. And post some pictures of your catches. Or lack thereof.