Paul Clouse, Ted Cribari, and Al Hurwitz trolled Lake Del Valle on August 1, 2024 looking to catch Smallmouth Bass. We caught a total of 13 Smallies, of which 4 were of decent size. Below from top to bottom are Ted, Al, and Paul with Smallmouths ranging from one to two plus pounds. The fish were all caught on 1/4 oz. RoxStar Spinner Flies trolled 21-23 feet below the surface in 30-40 foot water columns. Our approach is to use leaded line attached to fluorocarbon leader. Scent was liberally applied to the lures. Most of the fish were caught along the eastern rock wall entering Heron Bay, while a few were snagged along the western shoreline.

The water clarity remains very good with a surface temperature of 76-78 degrees. The lake level has dropped further from last week, but with continued excellent conditions for trolling.

Our long experience in fishing for Smallmouth Bass at Lake Del Valle confirms that the quality of the fishing experience for Smallies improves throughout the summer months and well into the fall. It reaches its peak in the months of September and October as the Smallmouths feed aggressively prior to the cold water conditions of late fall and winter.

Thanks again to the efficient and friendly Del Valle staff for all their help!