Paul Clouse and Al Hurwitz got on Lake Del Valle on September 5, 2024, on a very hot day under cloudless blue skies. We were trolling 1/4 oz feathered spinners some 21-23 feet below the surface at speeds of 2.0-2.5 mph. We were trying to catch Smallmouth Bass as the target species. We use lead trolling line attached to fluorocarbon leader, and liberally apply scent to the lures. We had a solid day, but did not land the large numbers of fish caught in the prior several weeks. We did catch and land nine Smallmouths, a number of which were of reasonable size. Four or five broke off after a brief fight, and there were a number of “on and off” bites as well. The hot weather, clear skies, and a calm windless morning all gave us a slow start. However, when the wind picked up, we then caught some decent sized Smallmouths in the 1-1.7 pound range (see attached photos). Paul is holding a more traditional lighter colored Smallie. Al is holding a darker Smallmouth, perhaps made darker by adapting its color to stained water or dark structure.

All in all, a good day! See you soon.

Best regards,
Dr. Al Hurwitz, Saratoga 
Paul Clouse, Lafayette