Low water in a reservoir that supplies drinking water to more than 300,000 residents isn't ideal, but it does present unique opportunities for anglers. The main being more access to spots and habitat that you simply can't reach when the reservoir is at full pool. Another benefit is the fish you're targeting are condensed into a smaller area. One more is all the cool stuff that gets exposed in these conditions. Not just the subtle reminders of a bustling mill town that once existed below the surface either. Among the stonewalls, foundations, and water-logged tree stumps, all kinds of long-lost treasure gets revealed.
It had been more than a decade since I had witnessed water levels this low here. That's a lot of time for its craggy bottom to accumulate broken-off fishing tackle. I'd like to believe all the years I've spent looking for Native American artifacts on beaches and farm fields have helped train my eyes. Whether that's true or not, in just two short trips, I was able to find a nice pile of lures and lead weights. The hooks have long rusted beyond use, but with a little scrubbing, new stickers and hardware, most of the gear will soon look good as new. A fun winter project, and payback for all the offerings I myself have donated over the years. The rez giveth, and the rez taketh away...
