Bass on, Bass off. Delta Topwater LMB with Bryce

Vaughn and I planned an action-packed day of topwater bass fishing with Delta guide Bryce Tedford, focusing on the thrill of catching largemouth bass on the surface. Vaughn is particularly passionate about this type of fishing, and after an incredible session with Bryce on Wednesday, I was feeling optimistic about our chances today.

Captain Bryce Tedford is a highly experienced fly fishing guide with over 20 years in the sport. Growing up on Bainbridge Island in Washington, he developed a deep love for fly fishing, especially for Silver Salmon, King Salmon, and Sea Run Cutthroat along the beaches of Puget Sound. He began guiding professionally in 1997, soon after high school, and has since led trips across the Pacific Northwest and in international locations such as Argentina, Chile, and beyond.

Since relocating to California in 2010, Bryce has focused his expertise on the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, where he specializes in guiding for Striped Bass, Largemouth Bass, and Smallmouth Bass. These fish are known for their aggressive strikes, making them ideal targets for both novice and seasoned anglers. Bryce’s enthusiasm and deep knowledge of fly fishing make every trip with him a learning experience.

In addition to his guiding credentials, Bryce holds a U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential, a California Guide license, and certifications in First Aid/CPR/AED. His extensive fishing adventures have taken him to places like Montana, California, Fiji, Cuba, Mexico, and the Bahamas, broadening his expertise and passion for the sport.

August in the Delta is prime time for fly fishing with topwater poppers for largemouth bass. The warm waters make the bass more active in the early mornings and late evenings, when they hunt near the surface. Casting poppers around weed edges, submerged structures, and along the banks can provoke explosive strikes, making for an exhilarating fishing experience.

Vaughn and I have fished with Bryce before on his beautiful Ranger Reata. With Vaughn in the front and me in the back, we thoroughly covered the Delta this morning with a variety of foam and cork bass poppers. Vaughn had an exceptional day with Bryce two days ago, and while they both joked that the fishing was better then, we still landed well over two dozen bass today. Topwater largemouth bass fishing can be unpredictable—what was great two days ago doesn’t always repeat itself—but as all seasoned fly fishermen know, you’ll never have that amazing day if you don’t get out there and try. Thankfully, we were well rewarded today.