Paul Clouse and Al Hurwitz trolled Lake Del Valle on 2/20/25, hoping to snag either winter Smallmouths Bass or Rainbow  Trout. Unfortunately, recent heavy rains, while raising the lake level considerably, produced very heavy water staining in the lower two thirds of the reservoir, making that area essentially impossible for successful trolling. Heron Bay, however, did have clearer albeit stained water, allowing trolling to proceed. We had a number of fish  “hits” on the sonar unit in Heron Bay, but only one bite. No fish were caught. We trolled at various depths with feathered spinners, Kastmasters, a Panther Martin Spinner, a Mooselook Wobbler, and a trailered jig, all to no avail. The water in Heron Bay was tea-colored with a surface temperature ranging from 52-54 degrees. 

For now we suggest restricting most of your trolling activity to Heron Bay until the water clarity improves in the lower lake. Bait fisherman, however, may have better success in this discolored water. Trollers will likely have to wait 3-4 weeks for more optimal fishing conditions. 

The good news is that with the lake level up, spring and summer fishing should be very good. 

We’ll be back in the near future and thank all of the staff for their excellent help in getting us on and off the water.