Episodes

  • Fishing Hot Spots at Lake Sam Rayburn After Recent Rains

    Fishing Hot Spots at Lake Sam Rayburn After Recent Rains
    Jan 5 2025
    As of January 5, 2025, Lake Sam Rayburn is offering some exciting fishing opportunities, especially with the recent rain affecting the water levels and clarity.

    First off, the lake level is on the rise due to the recent rain, and the water is slightly stained, particularly in the creeks and upriver areas, with a temperature of around 60 degrees. The lake is currently 1.15 feet below pool level[1][4].

    For today, the sunrise is at about 7:20 AM, and the sunset will be around 5:20 PM. There isn't a tidal report to consider since Lake Sam Rayburn is a freshwater reservoir.

    Fish activity has been quite promising. Bass are moving shallow into the bush and grassy areas with the new water, making crankbaits and swim jigs good choices for catching them in these shallow waters upriver. Crappie and white bass are also active, moving upriver, while catfish are biting well in 15-26 feet of water on cut bait and minnows[1][4].

    For largemouth bass, focus on areas with vegetation edges, flats, and creek channels, especially in the lower part of the reservoir where the water is clearer. During this time of year, bass are active for longer periods of the day, making crankbaits and spinnerbaits effective. For crappie, jigs and minnows are excellent, targeting shallow areas around vegetation during their spawn and deeper waters around brush piles and creek channels otherwise[2][3].

    Some hot spots to consider include the areas around submerged aquatic vegetation, standing timber, and flooded terrestrial vegetation. The upper third of the reservoir, though less vegetated, offers good habitat around timber, brush, laydowns, and creek channels. Man-made fish attractors also provide additional structure[2][3].

    In summary, with the rising water levels and slightly stained water, Lake Sam Rayburn is a great place to be for some productive fishing. Target bass in shallow waters with crankbaits and swim jigs, crappie with jigs and minnows in vegetated areas, and catfish in deeper waters with cut bait and minnows. Enjoy your day on the lake
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    3 mins
  • Lake Sam Rayburn's Promising Fishing Opportunities for January 4, 2025

    Lake Sam Rayburn's Promising Fishing Opportunities for January 4, 2025
    Jan 4 2025
    As of January 4, 2025, Lake Sam Rayburn is offering some exciting fishing opportunities despite the slightly challenging conditions. Here’s what you need to know for your fishing trip today.

    ### Weather and Water Conditions
    The weather is mostly cloudy with a high of 57 degrees and a low of 51 degrees tonight. The lake level is on the rise due to recent rain, sitting 1.15 feet below pool. The water is slightly stained, with clarity being slightly muddy in the creeks and upriver areas.

    ### Fish Activity
    Bass are actively moving shallow into the bush and grassy areas with the new water. They are particularly active upriver in shallow waters, where crankbaits and swim jigs are proving effective. Crappie and white bass are also moving upriver, while catfish are biting well in 15-26 feet of water on cut bait and minnows.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise today is at around 7:20 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 5:20 PM. These times are crucial for planning your fishing day, especially since fish tend to be more active during these periods.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For bass, crankbaits and swim jigs are the go-to choices in the shallow waters. For crappie, jigs and minnows are highly effective, especially near submerged brush piles. Catfish are responding well to cut bait and minnows in the deeper waters.

    ### Hot Spots
    Areas like the Angelina River, Cany Creek, and Ayish Bayou are known hotspots for bass fishing. For crappie, the submerged brush piles near the lake’s dam are prime locations. These spots offer a mix of vegetation, timber, and creek channels that attract a variety of fish species.

    ### Recent Catches
    Yesterday, bass were found moving into the shallow waters, with several catches reported in the 2-4 pound range. Crappie and white bass were also plentiful upriver, and catfish catches were consistent in the deeper waters.

    Overall, Lake Sam Rayburn is in good shape for fishing despite the slightly muddy waters. With the right lures and knowledge of the hot spots, you should have a productive day on the water. Just remember to check the local fishing regulations and ensure you're not spreading zebra mussels by draining your boat's water when leaving or approaching the lake. Happy fishing
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    3 mins
  • Lake Sam Rayburn Fishing Forecast: Rising Levels, Active Bass, and Bountiful Catfish

    Lake Sam Rayburn Fishing Forecast: Rising Levels, Active Bass, and Bountiful Catfish
    Jan 3 2025
    As of January 3, 2025, here’s what you can expect if you're heading out to Lake Sam Rayburn in Texas.

    First, let's talk about the conditions. The lake level is on the rise due to recent rain, and the water is slightly stained, especially in the creeks and upriver areas. The water temperature is around 58 degrees, and the lake is currently 2.29 feet below pool level.

    For today, the sunrise is at 7:12 AM, and sunset will be at 5:23 PM. There's no tidal report to worry about since Sam Rayburn is a freshwater lake.

    Fish activity is quite promising. Largemouth bass are active, chasing shad in the shallows and off points. If you can find grass on the south end, crankbaits are your best bet. Crappie and white bass are moving in the river channel but aren't stacked up like usual. Catfish are doing well in 15-26 feet of water on cut bait and minnows.

    For bass, use crankbaits, spinnerbaits, or topwater baits, especially during early morning and late evening when the fish are most active. For crappie, jigs and minnows are excellent choices, particularly around submerged trees and brush piles in deeper areas. Catfish are biting well on cut bait and minnows in the river bends and creek channels.

    Some hot spots to consider include the south end where you can find grass, and the river channel for crappie and white bass. Brush piles and creek channels in the upper part of the lake are also productive, especially for bass and catfish.

    Remember to check the local fishing regulations and to drain water from your boat to prevent the spread of zebra mussels. Good luck out there
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    2 mins
  • Lake Sam Rayburn Fishing Outlook for January 2, 2025: Bass, Crappie, and Catfish Biting Strong

    Lake Sam Rayburn Fishing Outlook for January 2, 2025: Bass, Crappie, and Catfish Biting Strong
    Jan 2 2025
    As of January 2, 2025, the fishing conditions at Lake Sam Rayburn are looking promising. The lake level is on the rise due to recent rain, currently sitting at 1.15 feet below pool, and the water is slightly stained with a temperature of around 60 degrees.

    Sunrise today is at about 7:20 AM, and sunset will be around 5:20 PM. There are no tidal changes to worry about on this freshwater lake.

    Fish activity is steady, with bass actively chasing shad in the shallows and off points. You can expect to catch bass, especially if you can find grass on the south end of the lake, where crankbaits are working well. Crappie and white bass are moving in the river channel, though they are not stacked up as usual. Catfish are biting well in 15-26 feet of water on cut bait and minnows.

    For bass, use crankbaits and spinnerbaits during the daytime. If you're fishing early morning or late evening, topwater baits can be very effective. For crappie, jigs and minnows are the way to go, targeting shallow areas around vegetation during their spring spawn and deeper water around brush piles and creek channels at other times.

    Hot spots include the south end of the lake where you can find grass, and the river channel for crappie and white bass. The lower part of the reservoir, with its clearer waters, is also a good area to target, focusing on vegetation edges, flats, and creek channels.

    Remember to drain your boat and onboard receptacles to prevent the spread of zebra mussels. Enjoy your day on the water
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    2 mins
  • Lake Sam Rayburn Fishing Report: Clear Skies and Active Fish for December 29, 2024

    Lake Sam Rayburn Fishing Report: Clear Skies and Active Fish for December 29, 2024
    Dec 29 2024
    If you're planning to hit Lake Sam Rayburn today, December 29, 2024, here's what you need to know:

    First off, the weather is looking pretty good with a high of 59 degrees and mostly clear skies. Sunrise was at 7:13 AM, and sunset will be at 5:22 PM, giving you a full 10 hours and 8 minutes of daylight.

    The water level is slightly stained and sits at 58 degrees, 2.29 feet below pool. This time of year, the fish are adjusting to the cooler temperatures, but they're still active.

    Bass are chasing shad in the shallows and off points, so look for areas with grass, especially on the south end of the lake. Crankbaits are your best bet here. You can also find bass around shoreline brush, hay grass, high spots, shallow ditches, and creek channel swings. Topwater baits, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics are also effective.

    Crappie and white bass are moving in the river channel but aren't stacked up like usual. You might need to search a bit to find them, but jigs and minnows should do the trick.

    Catfish are doing well in 15-26 feet of water on cut bait and minnows. Target the river bends and deeper areas for the best results.

    For hot spots, focus on the south end where you can find grass and brush. The creek channel swings and shallow ditches are also prime areas. If you're after crappie, check out the standing timber in the river channel.

    Remember to drain your boat and onboard receptacles to prevent the spread of zebra mussels.

    Good luck out there, and tight lines
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    2 mins
  • Wintertime Wonder: Fishing the Active Bites at Lake Sam Rayburn

    Wintertime Wonder: Fishing the Active Bites at Lake Sam Rayburn
    Dec 28 2024
    As of December 28, 2024, Lake Sam Rayburn is offering some promising fishing conditions despite the winter chill. Here’s what you need to know:

    First, let's look at the environment. The water is slightly stained with a temperature of about 58 degrees, and the lake is 2.29 feet below pool level[1].

    For timing, sunrise is at 7:08 AM and sunset at 5:19 PM. There are no tidal changes to worry about since this is a freshwater lake[4].

    Fish activity is steady, with bass being quite active. They are chasing shad in the shallows and off points, making crankbaits a good choice, especially around grass areas on the south end of the lake. Schooling bass are also active around main lake ledges in 17-22 feet of water and main lake drains in 10-17 feet. For these, use dropshots, Carolina rigs, or deep diving crankbaits[1].

    Crappie and white bass are moving in the river channel but are not stacked up as usual. Crappie can be caught on standing timber in 27 feet of water using minnows over jigs. Catfish are doing well in 15-26 feet of water on cut bait and minnows[1].

    For the best lures, crankbaits and spinnerbaits are excellent for daytime fishing during the cooler months. Topwater baits work well during low light conditions, and plastic worms, jigs, and Carolina rigs are effective around vegetation edges and deep ledges[2][3].

    Some hot spots include the south end of the lake where you can find grass, and the main lake ledges and drains. The river channel is also worth exploring for crappie and white bass. Additionally, areas with standing timber and brush piles are good for crappie and catfish[1][2][3].

    Overall, Lake Sam Rayburn is providing a good mix of fish species and active fishing spots, making it a great place to cast your line this winter.
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    2 mins
  • Cooler Conditions Offer Promising Fishing at Lake Sam Rayburn

    Cooler Conditions Offer Promising Fishing at Lake Sam Rayburn
    Dec 27 2024
    As of December 27, 2024, Lake Sam Rayburn is presenting some promising fishing conditions despite the cooler weather. The lake is currently at 91.5% full, with the water level sitting 2.29 feet below the conservation pool elevation[2].

    The water temperature is around 58 degrees, and it's slightly stained, which is typical for this time of year[1]. Sunrise today is at about 7:15 AM, and sunset will be around 5:15 PM.

    Bass fishing has been fair, with bass actively chasing shad in the shallows and off points. When you can find grass on the south end of the lake, there's usually a bass waiting to be caught on crankbaits. Topwater baits and spinnerbaits can also be effective in these areas[1][5].

    Crappie and white bass are moving into the river channel, and using jigs or minnows can yield good results. Catfish are biting well in 15-26 feet of water, particularly on cut bait and minnows. Look for them in the river bends and deeper sections of the lake[1].

    For hot spots, focus on the south end of the lake where you can find grass and shallow water. The creek channel swings and high spots along the shoreline brush and hay grass are also productive areas. Additionally, the river channel and bends are good spots for crappie and catfish[1][5].

    Given the cooler weather, the fish may be a bit sluggish initially, but as they adjust, they should start feeding more actively. So, be patient and persistent, and you should have a good day on the water. Remember to drain your boat and onboard receptacles to prevent the spread of zebra mussels when leaving or approaching the lake[1].
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    2 mins
  • Fishing Forecast for Lake Sam Rayburn: Bass, Crappie, and Catfish Biting Despite Cold Front

    Fishing Forecast for Lake Sam Rayburn: Bass, Crappie, and Catfish Biting Despite Cold Front
    Dec 26 2024
    As of December 26, 2024, the fishing scene at Lake Sam Rayburn in Texas is looking promising despite the cold weather. Here’s what you need to know:

    ### Conditions
    The water is slightly stained with a temperature of around 58 degrees, and the lake is currently 2.02 feet below pool level[5].

    ### Weather and Time
    With the cold front moving in, the initial bite might be slow, but as the fish adjust, they should start feeding actively. Sunrise today is at around 7:15 AM, and sunset is at about 5:15 PM. There are no significant tidal changes to worry about on this freshwater lake.

    ### Fish Activity
    Bass are actively chasing shad in the shallows and off points. When you find grass on the south end, there's a good chance of catching bass using crankbaits. Crappie and white bass are moving in the river channel, while catfish are biting well in 15-26 feet of water on cut bait and minnows[5].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For bass, crankbaits and spinnerbaits are excellent choices during the daytime. As the sun rises, switch to plastic worms, jigs, and Carolina rigs, especially around vegetation edges, deep ledges, and creek channels[2][3].
    For crappie, jigs and minnows are the way to go, targeting shallow areas around vegetation during the spring spawn and deeper water around brush piles and creek channels at other times[2][3].
    Catfish are responding well to cut bait and minnows in the deeper waters.

    ### Hot Spots
    - The south end of the lake, where you can find grass, is a hot spot for bass using crankbaits.
    - The river channel is a good place to catch crappie and white bass.
    - Look for standing timber in 27 feet and brush piles for crappie, and river bends for catfish[5].

    Overall, Lake Sam Rayburn is offering a variety of fishing opportunities despite the cold weather. Be patient, and as the fish adjust to the temperature, you should see an increase in activity. Good luck out there
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    2 mins