Los Vaqueros Reservoir Stripers Lead Fall Angling Parade
LIVERMORE – Stripers are providing the top action for rental boaters and shore anglers at Los Vaqueros Reservoir.. The persistent wind remains the biggest factor, keeping the rental boats tied up at the marina dock many days over the past several weeks.
“When the weather allows, anglers fishing from rental boats have been catching stripers ranging from 18 to 27 inches while casting glidebaits and top water lures in Cowboy Cove,” said Manuel Bermudez at the Los Vaqueros Marina. “The key is to follow the boils as the stripers chase shad and other baitfish. Shore anglers have also been hooking stripers, including a lot of shakers, at the Marina Pier while fishing anchovies.”
Anglers are also picking up a few rainbow trout while trolling flies, Rapalas, spinners and spoons when the wind relents. Bank fishing in the South Cove has been slow, but the action should pick up when trout plants begin on the reservoir this fall after the surface water temperature cools down, according to Bermudez. Shore anglers can pick up the trout in South Cove and elsewhere on the lake while using PowerBait, nightcrawlers, Kastmasters, jigs and other offerings.
Channel catfish reports have been scarce lately. The last plant of 1000 pounds of catfish for the summer went into the reservoir on September 1.
If you are interested in renting a boat, the marina recommends calling ahead to check current wind conditions as they are unpredictable and can impact the ability to safely rent boats to visitors.
Wind speeds change suddenly and boat rentals are typically suspended when they exceed 15 MPH and when heavy gusts are forecasted. Remember – rental boats are first come, first served. Weekends and some weekdays sell out quickly. For more information, call (925) 371-2628.
- Dan Bacher
