The algae is way down with water temps dipping to around 79 degrees... and the bass have taken notice. Fish are slowly getting more aggressive as they look to fatten up before winter, though full-on fall mode isn't quite here yet. Early mornings and late evenings have been best for the reaction bite and topwater. Crankbaits run through 10-15 feet near rock or hard structure, and walking baits worked in the backs of coves have both been getting some nice fish in the 2-3 pound range. Midday is still all about finesse right now though... flukes and dropshots are your best bet. Stripers have been spotted schooling off the main points, but reports on what's getting them have been quiet. Once water temps get to the mid 70s, look for the bite to really take off.

Catfish season is still rolling at Santa Ana River Lakes, and the lake just loaded up again with a plant of Imperial cats and big tilapia on September 10. That follows a heavy Labor Day catfish stock and another cat/tilapia plant in late August, so there are plenty of fish in the water. Cut mackerel, blood bait, and dough bait are the go tos, and cats over 10 pounds are not unusual. Tilapia are fun, and there are a few giants roaming as well. No license is needed, and day, night, and overnight sessions are all available. Rental boats are first come, first served, so get there early if you want one.