Today’s outing started optimistically with Paul Clouse and Al Hurwitz trolling Lake Del Valle on 11/30/2023. Within 10-15 minutes of our putting lines in the water, Paul hooked up with this nice 3.7 pound Largemouth Bass trolling the Eastern Shore rocky wall entering Heron Bay. He was trolling a 1/4 oz. Panther Martin spinner (with scent applied) 20 feet below the surface in a 30-40 foot water column. Unfortunately, that was it. In spite of great expectations, there were no more bites, even though we trolled at different depths all over the lake. We suspect that a combination of the prior evening’s  full moon, the 15-20 foot recent drop in the lake level, and some reduction in water clarity may all have been factors. In any event, we were delighted with Paul’s nice catch which was released in excellent condition. The surface water temperature was 55-56 degrees, and the water clarity was fair.

We hope to see you soon and hope that this tough transition period evolves smoothly into a good Trout season.

All the best,

Dr. Al Hurwitz, Saratoga
Paul Clouse, Lafayette