Paul Clouse and Al Hurwitz trolled Los Vaqueros Reservoir on January 2, 2025, looking mainly for Rainbow Trout. A slow day, surprising because the weather, wind, cloud cover, water clarity, and water temperature (mid to upper 50’s) were ideal. Most trollers and bait fishermen caught a few fish, but not in the expected numbers. A few decent Striped Bass and some Rainbows were caught, but the “talk on the dock” is that better days are yet to come.

We managed to hook up with three fish. One fish, probably a 3-4 lb. Mt. Lassen Rainbow, spit the hook on a J-9 Jointed Rapala while flat lining in Howden Cove. We did land two nice Lassens weighing around 1.5-1.7 lbs, trolling 1/6 oz. Mooselook Chrome Color Spoons. They were caught in East and Cox Coves, trolled about 7.5-10 feet below the surface, using lead core line (Al is pictured here with a 1.7 pound Lassen). We applied a variety of scents to our lures. Several other strikes occurred without hookups. All fish were released in good condition.

I think the reservoir will “turn on” with exciting action in the  weeks ahead. Thanks to the LVR staff who are very helpful in getting us in and off the lake.

Happy New Year!
Paul Clouse, Lafayette 
 Dr. Al Hurwitz, Saratoga