The Toyota Series Western Division continues its season this week in Oakley, Calif. with the with an event at the California Delta. The three-day tournament will feature some of the region's top anglers casting for a top prize of up to $65,000, plus an additional $35,000 bonus if the winner is a qualified Phoenix Boat owner.
“The California Delta is fishing really good right now,” said Bass Pro Tour pro Ish Monroe of Oakdale, Calif. “The weather is supposed to be beautiful and warm, which creates a good bite.”
Monroe said he expects the tournament to feature a topwater and punching bite.
“There will still be a few guys catching some on spinnerbaits and crankbaits, but the anglers who win will most likely be throwing frogs and punching,” said Monroe. “I don’t expect to see a certain depth making a difference on this fishery, but guys definitely need to be looking for good grass to fish throughout the tournament.”
Monroe said local Wednesday night tournaments are taking 27 to 28 pounds to win – and those are just five-hour tournaments.
“I anticipate it will take an average of 18 pounds per day to get into the Top 10,” continued Monroe. “Anglers will probably need a bag in the mid-20-pound range one of the three days and an average of 20 pounds for the other two days to bring home the win.”
Anglers take off daily at 6 a.m. PT from the Big Break Marina in Oakley. Weigh-ins will also be held at the marina and will begin at noon.
