Episodes

  • Chilly Conditions at Lake Sam Rayburn: Bass, Crappie, and Catfish Forecast for November 23, 2024

    Chilly Conditions at Lake Sam Rayburn: Bass, Crappie, and Catfish Forecast for November 23, 2024
    Nov 23 2024
    For Lake Sam Rayburn on November 23, 2024, here’s what you can expect:

    First off, the weather is looking a bit chilly after the recent cold front, which might slow down the bite some. The water temperature is around 70 degrees, and the lake is slightly stained with a level 2.44 feet below pool.

    Sunrise today is at about 6:45 AM, and sunset will be around 5:15 PM. There’s no significant tidal activity to worry about on Sam Rayburn since it’s a freshwater lake.

    Bass fishing has been good, especially in the shallower areas. Shallow bass are actively feeding on shad and can be caught using spinnerbaits, topwater frogs, Texas rigs, wacky rigs, and shallow water crankbaits. Target areas like shoreline brush, hay grass, high spots, shallow ditches, and creek channel swings. For schooling bass, look around main lake ledges in 17-22 feet, main lake drains in 10-17 feet, and main lake and secondary points. Here, a dropshot, Carolina rig, or a ½-¾ ounce jig can be effective.

    Crappie are transitioning from main lake brush to creek channels. You can catch them on brush piles with minnows or jigs. Blue and channel catfish are fair in 24-27 feet of water and in the river bends using cut bait and minnows.

    Hot spots include the areas around shoreline brush and hay grass, particularly early in the morning when bass are chasing bait. Also, focus on main lake ledges and secondary points for the schooling bass.

    For a successful day, bring along a variety of lures such as spinnerbaits, topwater frogs, Texas rigs, wacky rigs, shallow water crankbaits, dropshots, Carolina rigs, and jigs. Live bait like minnows and cut bait will also be effective for crappie and catfish.

    Remember to check the lake level, which is expected to continue dropping slowly through the winter, and always drain your boat to prevent the spread of zebra mussels. Good luck out there
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    2 mins
  • Great Fall Fishing on Lake Sam Rayburn - Hot Topwaters, Ledge Baits, and Crappie Transitioning

    Great Fall Fishing on Lake Sam Rayburn - Hot Topwaters, Ledge Baits, and Crappie Transitioning
    Nov 22 2024
    For Lake Sam Rayburn on November 22, 2024, here’s what you can expect:

    The water is slightly stained with a temperature of 72 degrees, and the lake is currently 2.43 feet below pool level. The weather has recently seen a strong cold front, but it's expected to stabilize, making for a good fishing day.

    Sunrise is at around 6:45 AM, and sunset will be at about 5:15 PM. There are no significant tidal changes to worry about on this freshwater lake.

    Bass activity is quite strong, especially in the shallow waters. Shallow bass are actively feeding on the abundant shad, making spinnerbaits and topwater frogs highly effective. You can also catch them using Texas rigs, wacky rigs, shallow water crankbaits, and topwaters around shoreline brush, hay grass, high spots, shallow ditches, and creek channel swings. For deeper bass, target main lake ledges in 17-22 feet, main lake drains in 10-17 feet, and secondary points with Carolina rigs, dropshots, and shaky heads.

    Crappie are transitioning from main lake brush to creek channels and can be caught on brush piles with minnows over jigs. Blue and channel catfish are fair in 24-27 feet of water and in the river bends on cut bait and minnows.

    For hot spots, focus on the areas around the mouth of creeks and offshores flats where bass are schooling and chasing bait balls. The hay grass and flooded bushes early in the morning are also prime spots for catching bass using chatterbaits, swimbaits, or frogs.

    In terms of specific lures, shad-colored bladed jigs, finesse jigs in natural colors, and 6-7 inch line through swimbaits are working well. For crappie, use minnows, plastic jigs, or hair jigs in 13-21 feet of water on or close to structures.

    Overall, Lake Sam Rayburn is offering a great fall fishing experience with plenty of active fish and various effective lures to choose from.
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    2 mins
  • Fishing Report: Lake Sam Rayburn Promising With Active Bass, Crappie and Catfish

    Fishing Report: Lake Sam Rayburn Promising With Active Bass, Crappie and Catfish
    Nov 21 2024
    As of November 21, 2024, the fishing scene at Lake Sam Rayburn is looking promising. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Water Conditions
    The water temperature is at a comfortable 72 degrees, with the water slightly stained. The lake level is currently 2.43 feet below pool, and it's expected to continue dropping slowly through the winter[2][3][4].

    Today's weather forecast shows mostly cloudy skies with a high of 80 degrees and a chance of rain showers tonight. Sunrise is at 6:53 AM, and sunset will be at 5:13 PM.

    ### Fish Activity
    Bass are quite active, particularly in the shallow waters. You can find them centered around shoreline brush, hay grass, high spots, shallow ditches, and creek channel swings. These shallow bass are feeding heavily on the abundant shad in the area and can be caught using spinnerbaits, topwater frogs, Texas rigs, wacky rigs, and shallow water crankbaits[2][3][4].

    There is also a significant population of schooling bass chasing bait balls around main lake ledges in 17-22 feet, main lake drains in 10-17 feet, and main lake and secondary points. For these schooling bass, use a dropshot, Carolina rig, or deep diving crankbait.

    Crappie are transitioning from main lake brush to creek channels, and they can be caught on brush piles with minnows over jigs. Blue and channel catfish are fair in 24-27 feet of water and in the river bends on cut bait and minnows[2][3][4].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For bass, topwater frogs, spinnerbaits, and shallow water crankbaits are excellent choices for the shallow waters. For the schooling bass, a dropshot, Carolina rig, or deep diving crankbait works well. Crappie can be caught with minnows over jigs on brush piles, while catfish are best targeted with cut bait and minnows[2][3][4].

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Shoreline Brush and Hay Grass**: Early in the morning, target these areas with chatterbaits, swimbaits, or frogs to catch bass chasing bait.
    - **Main Lake Ledges and Drains**: Look for schooling bass in 17-22 feet and 10-17 feet of water around main lake ledges and drains. Use a dropshot or Carolina rig here.
    - **Creek Channels**: Crappie are transitioning to these areas, so focus on brush piles with minnows over jigs.
    - **River Bends**: For blue and channel catfish, head to the river bends in 24-27 feet of water and use cut bait and minnows.

    With the right lures and knowledge of the hot spots, you should have a productive day fishing at Lake Sam Rayburn. Remember to check the local regulations and ensure you're not spreading zebra mussels by draining water from your boat when leaving or approaching public fresh waters.
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    3 mins
  • Fishing Report: Lake Sam Rayburn Offers Excellent Opportunities for Bass, Crappie, and Catfish

    Fishing Report: Lake Sam Rayburn Offers Excellent Opportunities for Bass, Crappie, and Catfish
    Nov 17 2024
    As of November 17, 2024, Lake Sam Rayburn is offering some excellent fishing opportunities. The water is slightly stained with a temperature of around 72 degrees, and the lake level is currently 2.43 feet below pool.

    ### Weather and Tidal Report
    The weather forecast for today is mostly sunny with a high of 80 degrees and a clear night with a low of 51 degrees. There are no significant tidal changes to note, as Lake Sam Rayburn is a freshwater lake.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at around 6:45 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 5:15 PM, giving you a full day to enjoy the fishing.

    ### Fish Activity
    Bass fishing is particularly good right now. Shallow bass are actively feeding on the abundant shad in the shallow waters and can be caught using spinnerbaits, topwater frogs, Texas rigs, wacky rigs, and shallow water crankbaits. There is a large population of schooling bass chasing bait balls around main lake ledges in 17-22 feet, main lake drains in 10-17 feet, and main lake and secondary points. For deeper bass, use a dropshot, Carolina rig, or deep diving crankbait.

    Crappie are transitioning from main lake brush to creek channels and can be caught on standing timber in 15-27 feet of water using minnows or jigs.

    Blue and channel catfish are fair in 24-27 feet of water and in the river bends on cut bait and minnows.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For bass, topwater frogs, spinnerbaits, and shallow water crankbaits are highly effective. For deeper bass, a Carolina rig, dropshot, or deep diving crankbait works well.

    For crappie, minnows and jigs are the best choices.

    For catfish, cut bait, minnows, and stink bait are recommended.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Shoreline Brush and Hay Grass**: These areas are home to many shallow bass feeding on shad. Use topwater frogs, spinnerbaits, or shallow crankbaits here.
    - **Main Lake Ledges and Drains**: Schooling bass are abundant in these areas, particularly in 17-22 feet and 10-17 feet of water. Use a Carolina rig, dropshot, or deep diving crankbait.
    - **River Bends**: This is a good spot for catching blue and channel catfish using cut bait and minnows.

    Always remember to wear your life jacket and follow local regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable fishing experience.
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    3 mins
  • "Prime Time at Lake Sam Rayburn: Cracking the Bass and Crappie Code"

    "Prime Time at Lake Sam Rayburn: Cracking the Bass and Crappie Code"
    Nov 16 2024
    As of November 16, 2024, Lake Sam Rayburn is offering some excellent fishing opportunities. The water is slightly stained, with a temperature of 72 degrees, and the lake level is 2.43 feet below pool.

    For today, expect a sunny day with mild temperatures, perfect for a day on the water. Sunrise is at 6:43 AM, and sunset will be at 5:13 PM. There are no significant tidal changes to worry about on this freshwater lake.

    Fish activity is robust, particularly with the abundance of shad in shallow water. Shallow bass are actively feeding on these shad and can be caught using spinnerbaits and topwater frogs. These bass are centered around shoreline brush, hay grass, high spots, shallow ditches, and creek channel swings. You can also use Texas rigs, wacky rigs, shallow water crankbaits, and topwaters to target these fish.

    There is a large population of schooling bass chasing bait balls around main lake ledges in 17-22 feet, main lake drains in 10-17 feet, and main lake and secondary points. For these schooling bass, try using a dropshot, Carolina rig, ½-¾ ounce jig, or deep diving crankbait.

    Crappie are transitioning from main lake brush to creek channels, and they can be caught on brush piles with minnows or jigs. Blue and channel catfish are fair in 24-27 feet of water and in the river bends on cut bait and minnows.

    Hot spots include the areas around shoreline brush and hay grass, as well as the main lake ledges and secondary points. The creek channel swings and shallow ditches are also worth exploring.

    Remember to be cautious with navigation as the lake level is expected to continue dropping slowly through the winter. And don't forget to drain the water from your boat and onboard receptacles to prevent the spread of zebra mussels.
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    2 mins
  • Lake Sam Rayburn Fishing Report: Schooling Bass, Transitioning Crappie, and Cautious Navigation

    Lake Sam Rayburn Fishing Report: Schooling Bass, Transitioning Crappie, and Cautious Navigation
    Nov 15 2024
    If you're planning to hit Lake Sam Rayburn today, here's what you need to know. As of November 15, 2024, the lake is slightly stained with a water temperature of around 72 degrees, and the lake level is currently about 2.43 feet below pool.

    The weather is expected to be mostly cloudy with a high of 78 degrees and a chance of rain showers, so be prepared for changing conditions. Sunrise was at about 6:45 AM, and sunset will be around 5:15 PM.

    Bass activity is quite strong, especially in the mornings when they are schooling more actively. You can expect topwater action on grass edges and points, making lures like chatterbaits, swimbaits, and frogs highly effective. Shallow bass are centered around shoreline brush, hay grass, high spots, shallow ditches, and creek channel swings. These fish can be caught using Texas rigs, wacky rigs, shallow water crankbaits, and topwaters.

    For deeper bass, target the mouth of creeks and offshore flats where they are chasing bait; Carolina rigs, dropshots, and shaky heads are working well here. There is an abundance of shad in shallow water, and shallow bass are feeding aggressively on them, making spinnerbaits and topwater frogs excellent choices.

    Crappie are transitioning from main lake brush to creek channels and can be caught on standing timber in about 27 feet of water on brush piles using minnows over jigs. Blue and channel catfish are fair in 24-27 feet of water and in the river bends on cut bait and minnows.

    Hot spots include the areas around shoreline brush, hay grass, and high spots like shallow ditches and creek channel swings. The mouth of creeks and offshore flats where bass are suspended and chasing bait are also highly productive.

    Given the lake's current conditions, navigating with caution is advised, especially with the lake level expected to drop slowly through the winter for dam maintenance. So, grab your gear and head out early to catch those schooling bass and crappie. It's going to be a great day on Lake Sam Rayburn.
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    2 mins
  • Fishing Forecast for Lake Sam Rayburn: Ideal Conditions and Abundant Bites

    Fishing Forecast for Lake Sam Rayburn: Ideal Conditions and Abundant Bites
    Nov 14 2024
    If you're planning to hit Lake Sam Rayburn today, here’s what you need to know. As of November 14, 2024, the lake is slightly stained with a water temperature of 72 degrees and is currently 2.43 feet below pool level.

    ### Weather and Tidal Report
    The weather is expected to be partly cloudy with a high of 80 degrees and a low of 68 degrees. There's a slight chance of rain showers, so be prepared. Sunrise is at around 6:45 AM, and sunset will be at about 5:15 PM. Since Lake Sam Rayburn is a freshwater lake, there are no tidal changes to worry about.

    ### Fish Activity
    The fishing has been good, especially for bass. Shallow bass are actively feeding on the abundant shad in the shallow waters. You can catch these bass using spinnerbaits, topwater frogs, Texas rigs, wacky rigs, and shallow water crankbaits. They are centered around shoreline brush, hay grass, high spots, shallow ditches, and creek channel swings. There is also a large population of schooling bass chasing bait balls around main lake ledges in 17-22 feet, main lake drains in 10-17 feet, and main lake and secondary points.

    Crappie are transitioning from main lake brush to creek channels. You can find them on brush piles in 15-27 feet of water using minnows over jigs. Blue and channel catfish are fair in 24-27 feet of water and in the river bends on cut bait and minnows.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For bass, use spinnerbaits, topwater frogs, chatterbaits, swimbaits, and Carolina rigs. Crappie are biting well on minnows over jigs in the creek channels. For catfish, cut bait and minnows are your best bet.

    ### Hot Spots
    Focus on the shoreline brush and hay grass areas, especially early in the morning when bass are chasing bait. The creek channel swings and high spots are also productive. For crappie, target the brush piles in the creek channels. The river bends are good spots for catfish.

    Overall, Lake Sam Rayburn is offering some excellent fishing opportunities right now, so make sure to take advantage of the active fish and favorable conditions.
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    3 mins
  • Topwater Frenzy at Lake Sam Rayburn: Bass, Crappie, and Catfish Bite Strong in Ideal Conditions

    Topwater Frenzy at Lake Sam Rayburn: Bass, Crappie, and Catfish Bite Strong in Ideal Conditions
    Nov 10 2024
    As of November 10, 2024, Lake Sam Rayburn is offering some excellent fishing opportunities. The water is slightly stained with a temperature of around 72 degrees, and the lake level is currently about 2.55 feet below pool.

    Weather-wise, today is partly sunny with a high of 84 degrees and a low of 62 degrees tonight. Sunrise was at about 7:30 AM, and sunset will be around 6:45 PM. There are no significant tidal changes to note, as Lake Sam Rayburn is a freshwater lake.

    Bass activity is quite strong, particularly in the mornings when they are schooling more actively. You can expect topwater action on grass edges and points, making lures like chatterbaits, swimbaits, and frogs highly effective. Shallow bass are centered around shoreline brush, hay grass, high spots, shallow ditches, and creek channel swings. These fish can be caught using Texas rigs, wacky rigs, shallow water crankbaits, and topwaters.

    For deeper bass, target the mouth of creeks and offshore flats where they are chasing bait; Carolina rigs, dropshots, and shaky heads are working well here. There is a large population of schooling bass heavily chasing bait balls around main lake ledges in 17-22 feet, main lake drains in 10-17 feet, and main lake and secondary points.

    Crappie are transitioning from brush main lake brush to creek channels and can be caught on standing timber in about 27 feet of water using minnows over jigs. Blue and channel catfish are fair in 24-27 feet of water and in the river bends on cut bait and minnows.

    Hot spots include the areas around shoreline brush, hay grass, and high spots like shallow ditches and creek channel swings. The mouth of creeks and offshore flats are also productive, especially where bass are suspended and chasing bait.

    Given the abundance of shad in shallow water, shallow bass feeding on these shad can be caught with spinnerbaits and topwater frogs. Be cautious navigating the lake as the level is expected to drop slowly through the winter for dam maintenance.

    Overall, it's a great day to head out to Lake Sam Rayburn and take advantage of the active fish and favorable conditions.
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    3 mins