Whenever we tried it, the fish were there within 15-20 seconds. If you're staying at the reservoir, consider a night dive after the day's fishing. The big fish stay out of visual range during the day, but at night they'll run right into your dive light. Pick your dive area carefully. This is a large reservoir with many possible sites accessable from the road.
Shallower areas become quite silty in the afternoon due to wave action.
Visit Water World in the University Mall. For short shallow dives, you may be quite comfortable in your wet suit without hood or gloves. We recommend a hood for extra warmth. Mike Engberson is awestruck by the scenery in Soldier Creek. Unfortunately, spearfishing is not allowed in this reservoir.