6-13-20
Last night, a friend and I went to Lake Silverwood, California. We parked our vehicles at a turnout on Highway 138, and prepared to hike down to Miller’s Canyon. Usually, we pack very light because the hike can be strenuous. This particular hike is something we have done over five times in the month of May, and our first for the month of June and usually takes about 15-20 minutes to get into Miller’s Canyon from the highway.
Once we designated a spot to start fishing, I usually begin by walking and fishing the shore until I get a nibble or strike. On this particular day, I began fishing with a jerk bait on my usual 6-foot, 6-inch rod and spinning reel with 8-pound test line. The jerk bait is my go-to bait at this lake because I know that if I continue to cast my chances of getting a fish to strike increase, or that is what I believe, or I tell myself until I do get a strike.
On a good note, for the month of May I have recorded 58 catches at Lake Silverwood. These catches include different types of fish: Catfish, Striped Bass, and Largemouth Bass, all caught on the same jerk bait. I know that sounds weird to most fisherman that I can catch Catfish on a jerk bait, but believe me, Catfish are super aggressive in this body of water.
For some reason, I was not having any action on my rod for about 60-70 casts. On that 71st cast though, I was able to land a small Striped bass. Miller’s Canyon has not been producing a lot of fish for me lately. I know that my last outing there only produced a relatively large Bluegill, but I was able to avoid “the skunk.” With not much fishing action going on, my buddy and I decided to hike to the Marina area to try and catch some more fish.
Once in the Marina, I switched my jerk bait to a Rattle Trap lure. I only did this because I noticed that the fish weren’t necessarily striking my jerk bait, letting me know that the fish may not be on or just below the surface of the water. The Rattle Trap Lure tends to sink to the bottom of the lake, basically allowing me to cover more water. Within roughly 10 casts, I was able to land a small Largemouth Bass (3/4 pound). I took a few photos of it, and released it rather quickly.
I had a really awesome night on my fishing journey. The Park Ranger pulled up and stated, “License Check,” as to which I responded, “Yes sir!” I provided my License and he responded, “How was the hike in?” I responded, “Strenuous, but worth it.” As he entered his vehicle, he responded, “You have a good night.”
My buddy and I wrapped up our fishing gear and hiked back up to the highway. My search for larger bass has just begun…See you out there!!!!!!