Lower Otay has been right in the middle of San Diego’s big bass run this month. With Jennings producing a 17-pounder, Otay answered with a recent 15-plus pound fish of its own. Unlike Jennings, Otay doesn’t have a major trout population, so big trout-pattern swimbaits are less effective. This giant was caught on a custom-painted glide bait, the Hinkle Shad.

Beyond the headline fish, bass action has been good, with fish moving toward spawning areas thanks to San Diego’s extended stretch of warm winter water. Jerkbaits and chatterbaits are picking off shallow prespawn fish, while others are finding success dragging jigs in deeper water.