Paul Clouse and Al Hurwitz got back on Lake Del Valle after a hiatus. We were trolling mainly for Smallmouth Bass. It was a beautiful day in the 70’s with a light breeze, but the fish were very reluctant to bite. Finally started getting hits on a Rapala DT4 crankbait trolled about 20 feet below the surface using leadcore line. Picked up a nice one-pound Bluegill and three 1-1.5 pound Smallmouths (see attached photos). The fish were caught mainly along the eastern shoreline near Heron Bay, with one nice Smallie picked up on the north western shore. We apply scent liberally to the lures. Interestingly, the fish were totally disinterested in our spinners and would only hit the Rapala hard bait. The fish were quite fat, eating well before the winter season sets in. All the fish were successfully released.

Water surface temperature was 66.5-67.5 degrees with fair to good water clarity.

We suspect the “draw down” of the lake level by 17-18 feet in recent weeks may be the reason for the slower bite and reduction in water clarity.

We’ll be back soon for another attempt. See you soon!
Paul Clouse, Lafayette 
Dr. Al Hurwitz, Saratoga