During the derby, one of the grownups, Dana Boyd of Reno caught and released a 5 pound largemouth bass while using a Fluke from a rental boat. Two weeks ago the fish were still on their spawning beds. Bass are caught here year round, but October is generally the best time to fish, according to Carter. Spring, when the water warms up after ice out, is also a good time to fish. Anglers are encouraged to release any channel catfish that they catch to allow the population to grow.
Brown bullheads are abundant in the lake now.
For maximum success, anglers should toss worms, clams, mackerel and other baits off the docks at night. The lake ices over some years. When it does, the lake usually ices out by the end of February, according to Carter. Round Valley, built originally to provide water for mining operations, is now a water supply for the town of Greenville, so no swimming or water contact sports are allowed. The Round Valley Lake Resort features camping, boat rentals and mooring.