Oradell/Tappan/Woodcliff/Deforest - Any advice for new permit holder?

[logs22]

I just ordered and received my permit from Suez (formerly United Water) to access the Hackensack River reservoirs (Oradell, Woodcliff, Tappan & Deforest). I did some searches and don't see many recent posts that reference any of these lakes. That makes me think either the fishing is not great and I just wasted $50 or the fishing is good and no one wants to burn their spots. I hope it is the latter.

Oradell is the closest to where I live, probably 35 minutes or so without traffic (Woodcliff just a bit farther), however I also travel to Purchase NY for work quite frequently and both Lake Tappan and Deforest are right off 287 which is the route I take to the Tappan Zee. Suffice to say I plan to frequent all the lakes if given the chance.

In any case, if anyone with experience fishing these lakes could PM me with advice on which lakes have the best smallie fishing, some general areas to target and lures that work best I would greatly appreciate it (and keep any information provided to myself). There are no lakes in Union County with Smallmouths so that is the species I am most excited about targeting.

I plan to make my maiden voyage to one or all of the lakes this Sunday as my wife has given me a pass for the entire day. PM me if anyone is free Sunday and wants to meet up, company is always welcome. Thanks!