While my expertise is primarily in bass fishing, I can certainly provide some general advice that might help you with trout fishing at Lake Crowley, especially around late April when you're planning to go trolling.
For trout, especially in a lake setting like Crowley, you'll want to consider a few key types of lures that are effective for trolling:
Spoons: These are great because they mimic the movement of small baitfish which trout feed on. Look for smaller sizes in silver or gold finishes to reflect light and attract trout.
Spinners: Another excellent choice, spinners create vibration and visual flash, which can be irresistible to trout. The spinning action of the blade generates an optical attraction and sonic vibrations that can trigger aggressive strikes.
Minnow Plugs: These lures look like small fish and are effective at various depths, depending on how you rig them. They work well because they mimic a primary food source for trout.
Swimbaits: While more commonly used in bass fishing, smaller sized swimbaits can also be effective for trout. They offer a realistic fish-like appearance and swimming action.
Since you're going trolling, you'll also want to pay attention to the depth at which your lures are running. Trout can sometimes be found at different depths based on the water temperature and time of day. Early morning or later in the evening might see them at shallower depths.
Make sure to adjust your trolling speed to suit the lure action and the activity level of the trout. Sometimes, slower speeds are necessary to entice bites from more lethargic fish, while at other times, a faster troll might be needed to trigger more aggressive strikes.
Lastly, always check the local fishing reports or talk to local anglers and bait shops to get the latest on what's working. Local insights can be invaluable, especially when fishing a specific location like Lake Crowley.
Enjoy your fishing trip, and I hope you find these tips helpful for a successful day on the water trolling for trout!