Everyone knows what Vegas is famous for, lights, glitz, glamour and more. What most people are not familiar with however is the phenomenal fishing which can be had just a short drive from the strip. Tucked away under the shadows of the Hoover dam lays Willow Beach, located on the Colorado River well known to the locals for producing mammoth size Striped bass which can reach the plus side of 60lbs.

I happened to stumble upon this little gem a few years back and now make it an annual trip during the winter months to get away from the ice and snow. This past week once again found me down there with a buddy to chase some Stripers and meet up with one of the Nevada Striper Club’s big wigs to learn the secrets of the river. After dragging around the local’s favourite plugs with no takes we broke out the Lyman’s. Day one found a 6” #70 to be the plug of choice. My buddy Joe drew first blood and hooked up with a stout 5lber to finish out the evening. The following day met us with a small cold front moving in with a stiff North wind. It was a slow day however once again my “go to” plug pulled through with fish in the boat. My big fish of the trip proved to be another 5lber caught on a 9” #135, otherwise known as the “Showgirl”. This plug has time and time again been a consistent producer earning the right in my box to be one of my favourites. We were top lining these fish, trolling at approx 2 to 3 mph. Thank you to Lyman Lures for such an exceptional product and remember, next time you’re heading to Vegas, schedule an extra day, stock up on Lyman’s and head to the water. Don’t forget your showgirl!

Michael Meeks

Incept Guiding & Outfitting