Paul Clouse and Al Hurwitz trolled Lake Del Valle on 6/20/24. We trolled all sections of the Lake, but mainly the western shoreline. We trolled a streamer fly, feathered spinners, a  Rapala Shad Rap, and Rapala Jointed Husky Jerk crank baits. Trolling 18-23 feet below the surface in 30-40 foot water columns, we ended up with seven strikes and five fish caught. These included a chunky Largemouth Bass, a nice Smallmouth Bass (pictured with Al below), two Mt. Lassen Rainbow Trout (one weighing 2-3 pounds), and a beautiful 2-3 pound Lightning Trout (pictured in the net below). All  the fish were caught on Jointed Husky Jerks with ample scent applied. The fish were released in excellent condition.

We had two heavy duty strikes from large fish in front of the rock avalanche area on the western shore adjacent to the Narrows. However, the two fish didn’t stay pinned.

Trollers beware of underground structure along the entire western shoreline! We lost a number of pricey Rapalas on subsurface branches. The timber  is higher in the water now that the lake has been lowered 2 more feet.

The water is extremely clear with a surface temperature ranging from the low to mid-70’s.

We thank the entire Del Valle staff for all their courtesy in getting us on and off the water so efficiently. We’ll see you soon!

All the best,
 Paul Clouse, Lafayette 
Dr. Al Hurwitz, Saratoga