Delavan Lake 7/24/23 through 7/31/23
Delavan lake fishing has been fantastic. The northern and largemouth bite is exceptional. It has been almost boring at times catching 16-23 inch largemouth bass I have to remember when fishing is tough how good this time of year is.
Largemouth bass are on the deep weedline in 16-18 ft of water. I’ve been catching them on nightcrawlers or drop shotting small plastic worms. Concentrate on locations in the weeds that have a hard bottom. This is obvious with a good fish locator. On my sonar it will show up as very dark red. Look for the fish along the north shore from the Yacht Club to Willow Point.
Smallmouth bass has been all right. I’ve been catching a few fish almost every trip out. The average size is about 17 inches. I’m either catching them on small suckers or on a lindy rigged nightcrawler. They are not on the weedline. They are about 3 ft outside the weeds in 20-21 ft of water. Try west of Willow Point.
Bluegills remain everywhere on the lake. The key to catching them is to stay in the deeper water. The best bite has been in 20-22 ft of water. Belvidere Park or the point by the gray condos produces most of the action. Leaf worms fished on a single hook has been the best approach.
Northern Pike has been aggressive throughout last week. Lindy rigged suckers are producing most of the action. Fish the pike suspended in 20-25 ft of water about 2-3 ft off bottom. Last week was the first in a couple that the average size was around 25 inches and I didn’t catch a legal fish.
Walleye fishing has been okay. I’m catching a few on nightcrawlers right at low light conditions, either 5-5:30 a.m. or 8-8:30 pm. Leeches and nightcrawlers fished on a lindy rig are producing most of the fish. The best depth has been around 19 ft of water. Fish the areas by Willow Point or by the gray condo weedline.
Good luck and I hope to see you on the water. For guide parties, please call Dave Duwe at 262-728-8063