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ARDIA NEVES TF&G Editor-in-Chief
Water, Water... Anywhere?
IT SHOULD NOT COME AS A shock to any Texas sportsman—or any Texan, period—that water is going to be a critical issue very soon... and already is in a large part of the state. While Texans in north and eastern regions slosh around in an abundance of both surface and groundwater (for now), a large swath of the state languishes under a dome of rising temperatures and unrelenting drought.
We track water levels in the state’s 120 major lakes in every issue (see our Freshwater Forecast Center on pages 51, 54, and 57). is reporting illustrates the dire conditions that a ect a territory west and south of a jagged line running down from the Panhandle, east of Lubbock, north of San Antonio and between Corpus Christi and Victoria.
Most of the reservoirs below and west of this line are at no more than 40% capacity—many of them just 10-to-20% full—or lower.
e current hotspots for bass shing in the state, OH Ivie and JB omas, have held less than 50% of their capacity since 2011. While both lakes caught enough water last year to ll back from the 20-30% range to over 40%, long term trends point to a rapid return to lower levels. Other major, and former, shing powerhouses in the region have fared even worse. Amistad ended 2024 at 26 percent while Falcon, Bassmaster’s No. 1 bass lake in 2012, sat with less than 15% of its 83,654-acre surface under water.
Another venerable South Texas destination, Choke Canyon, has also been on a steep decline— last full in 2008 and below the y-percent mark for more than a decade—Choke Canyon was just
Inside FISH & GAME
over 16% full on January 15.
e arid zone is creeping northward. Canyon
1964, history at near full capacity. is took a dramatic
e arid zone is creeping northward. Canyon Lake above San Antonio has su ered more recent water level declines. Impounded on the Guadalupe River in 1964, Canyon spent much of its 60-year history at near full capacity. is took a dramatic turn a li le more than a year ago and the lake’s level has been on a steady decline since, dropping below y-percent in the past couple of months. And poor Lake Medina, in the hills west of San Antonio, has been damned near empty (under 3%) for the past year.
Lakes Travis and Buchanan, on the Colorado River above Austin, are quite familiar with extended periods of low water conditions. ey are the two largest impoundments on the Highland Lakes chain that also includes lakes Inks, LBJ, Marble Falls and Austin. Even in relatively wet periods, the water levels on Travis and Buchanan can uctuate signi cantly. is is not only to keep the constant-level reservoirs in the chain full, but to also satisfy competing demands for water that include: powering three hydroelectric dams, providing water to dozens of municipalities (including one of the ten-largest cities in the U.S.), and ful lling thirsty irrigation rights owned in perpetuity by downstream agricultural conglomerates. row in a dry spell, and it’s not long before it’s a 100-yard walk from the water line to a Lago Vista boat dock. Arid conditions have become normal in the western and south-central counties of Texas. But though other parts of the state have plenty of water now, the threat of spreading drought is always on the horizon, even in the soggiest regions. From 2011 to 2013 the entire state su ered under “exceptional” drought conditions, with even lakes in the semi-tropical southeast such as Sam Rayburn and Toledo Bend experiencing historic lows. Before that, the last extreme statewide drought occurred in the late 1950s.
Several alarming factors appear to indicate the next statewide water crisis could come a lot sooner than the half-century reprieve we had between the last two historic droughts. Prolonged lack of rain is just one of those factors. A surge in population, accompanied by unchecked growth and development—even in areas where water supplies are already scarce or totally used up—is pushing demand into the red zone—faster than water tables and cloudy skies can replenish the supply. en there’s ine ciency in the systems that supply water. According to the Comptroller’s o ce, the average water system in Texas was
installed in 1966. is creaky —and leaky— infrastructure is not well suited to deal with the development-on-steroids growth that will only accelerate in coming decades.
Texas, when rst encountered by European explorers and then American se lers, was a wonder of natural beauty and resources. But it was also inhospitable in the extreme. e land was hydrated only by a system of river basins that fanned out from the east to west. Spread across these basins were areas of piney wood thickets, post oak savannas, coastal prairies, rugged hill country, high plains, deserts, mountains, and canyons. ere was just one natural lake in the entire territory— Caddo—and half of that lake is in Louisiana. e only water came from the skies, feeding rivers and creeks and seeping into the soil and rock, where it formed springs and the water tables that later generations would exploit to exhaustion.
For this region of natural marvels to support civilization, beyond the native tribes that lived o the land for centuries without leaving much of an imprint, it required marvels of a di erent kind—human ingenuity and feats of grand-scale engineering.
Two centuries of this applied ingenuity later, skyscrapers shade vast stretches of the savannas and prairies, and asphalt roof shingles cover thousands of square miles of former thickets and scenic hillsides. And large bodies of impounded freshwater dot the map from east to west, north to south.
Meanwhile, the atmosphere isn’t creating any more water than it did before Texas was tamed. If anything, covering natural habitat in concrete, on a scale measured in literal geographic degrees of the earth, must have disrupted regional atmospheric activity—such as rainfall pa erns.
e resulting tug-of-war for moisture is only going to intensify. And the rope being tugged— like the aging infrastructure drawing down from all those man-made watering holes—just might break before anyone actually wins the war. So, our vigil on lake level and rain gauges around the state will also continue with greater intensity.
Email Ardia at aneves@fishgame.com
Email Roy at rneves@fishgame.com
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u LETTERS to the EDITOR
Drone Sightings
I JUST WANTED TO SAY THANKS for running that story about drones being used to harass hunters. It’s something I’ve heard about but never seen covered anywhere else. I hunt a lot, and while I haven’t had it happen to me, I know guys who’ve had their days ruined by this kind of stu .
:: by TF&G READERS
how this kind of behavior isn’t just annoying—it’s at-out wrong. I hope stories like this help get the word out, so more people understand what’s going on and why it’s
It’s frustrating to think someone would go out of their way to bother folks who are just trying to enjoy the outdoors. You really hit the nail on the head with
a problem. Keep up the great work, and thanks again for bringing this issue to light.
I WANTED TO GIVE YOU ALL A shoutout for the recent piece you ran about drones harassing hunters. Honestly, it’s something a lot of us worry about, and seeing it covered in the magazine was awesome. It feels like people don’t realize how big of a deal this can be, so I’m glad you’re spreading the word.
I’ve heard stories from friends who’ve dealt with this kind of nonsense, and it’s good to know we’re not alone in thinking it’s a problem. Appreciate the good work. Keep it coming!
P. Smith
Goliath Grouper
GOT A QUICK QUESTION FOR YOU.
Is it true people used to catch Goliath grouper o the Texas City Dike? I’ve heard a few stories from the older crowd about these massive sh being caught out there back in the day, but I’ve never seen any proof or records.
If it’s true, that’s just wild to think about. Would love to see a story about it if there’s anything to dig up. I know I’m not the only one who’d be curious about what kind of monsters might’ve been lurking out there years ago.
Colto Harwood
Editor:We don’t have documentation, but we have heard these stories. And we have also heard stories about them being caught at the Port Aransas Je ies and Galveston Je ies. ey tend to be a more shallow water grouper than some species and in Florida they will be right on the beach at docks, so I have no doubt there were some at the Dike back in the day. And with the species coming back, you never know. ere might be some now when the water is extra salty.
Email Your Comments to editor@fishgame.com
Jeff Banner
B&C Gives Javelina a Much Needed Boost
THE RECENT DECISION
BY
the Boone and Crocke Club to recognize javelinas in a new big game records category represents a victory for this o en overlooked and even maligned Texas native.
Known scienti cally as collared peccaries, javelinas inhabit the arid regions of Texas and other parts of the Southwest.
Despite being native to the region, they’ve o en been sidelined in conservation and hunting discussions. By elevating javelinas to a “Boone and Crocke ” category, the Club’s action could provide the species with a much-needed spotlight, potentially curbing the devastating impacts of poisoning and promoting sustainable hunting practices.
For years, the javelina has been caught in the cross re of feral hog management strategies, particularly in Texas, where hog populations have reached crisis levels. With the introduction of the warfarin-based toxicant for feral hogs I had serious concerns for the javelina.
While aimed at controlling invasive hog populations, such toxicants pose a grave threat to native species like the javelina. Sharing similar diets and overlapping habitats with feral hogs, javelinas are susceptible to poisoning.
TPWD’s “Javelina in Texas” publication notes that “Recent downturns in javelina population trends in South Texas appear to follow drought cycles, habitat management treatments, and more recent emphasis on white-tailed deer management, including high fencing and predator control.”
ey go on to say that although habitat improvement for white-tailed deer, such as food plots, supplemental feeding, and water development, improved habitat for javelina, in many cases it also exacerbated problems between deer enthusiasts and javelina.
“Incidental and illegal harvest of javelina due to their perceived nuisance of predation, agricultural damage and competition with deer has added to this decline.” (TPWD)
EDITOR’S Notes
Big protein-fed, selectively bred whitetail bucks bring in big bucks to ranchers and javelina are not a priority. In fact, as the TPWD document notes, illegal harvest is rampant.
In 2017 I wrote about this and called it the “Texas Javelina Massacre” and it represents the greatest decline in range of a game animal in Texas in modern history. In the 1930s javelina ranged close to the Red River. Now they’re restricted to South of San Antonio, the lair of the trophy whitetail.
If warfarin killed those bucks there would be an outcry as big as the state itself. If it kills javelina, you can bet more will be put out.
Many will look at taking out hogs and javelina as a two for one special.
Recognizing javelinas as a legitimate big game species under Boone and Crocke could play a critical role in reversing this trend. is recognition sends a powerful message: javelinas are not just incidental wildlife or agricultural nuisances but an integral part of the ecosystem worthy of respect and protection. It’s a shi that could in uence both hunters and land managers, emphasizing the need to di erentiate between native species and invasive pests.
Hunting organizations like Boone and Crocke wield considerable in uence over the perception of wildlife. eir record books, long revered in the hunting community, o en dictate what species are considered prestigious or desirable for hunting. By including javelinas, B&C can incentivize conservation.’
When hunters begin to value javelinas as trophy animals, the species gains not only visibility but also a constituency invested in its survival. is could lead to more careful habitat management practices, as hunters and ranchers recognize the ecological and economic bene ts of preserving javelina populations. Boone and Crocke ’s decision could inspire broader public interest in the species.
Much like the resurgence of bison as a symbol of American conservation, javelinas could transition from being misunderstood oddities to celebrated icons of the Southwest.
:: by CHESTER MOORE, JR. TF&G Editor-in-Chief
One of the most pressing issues in wildlife management in Texas today is the need to make clear distinctions between invasive exotic species, like feral hogs, and native wildlife, such as javelinas. Education and advocacy are essential to dispel these misconceptions and ensure that javelinas receive the protection they deserve. Boone and Crocke ’s recognition of javelinas is a critical step in this direction, as it underscores the importance of di erentiating between invasive threats and native wildlife in conservation strategies.
Hunter-conservationists have long been at the forefront of e orts to protect and restore wildlife populations. From the recovery of wild turkeys to the resurgence of elk in the eastern United States, hunters have demonstrated their commitment to preserving America’s natural heritage. e Boone and Crocke Club’s decision to include javelinas in their record books re ects this tradition of leadership and advocacy. By valuing javelinas as a big game species, the Club is not only promoting ethical hunting but also laying the groundwork for broader conservation e orts that could bene t the species for generations to come.
And speaking of elk, maybe we need to look at the status of elk in Texas. Despite being a native they are not game animals.
Texas has a unique wildlife management approach with many hits and a few misses. e javelina is a miss and this recent decision bodes well for the species.
Email Chester Moore at cmoore@fishgame.com
APIKE on the Edge
NYONE WHO HAS BEEN IN my company when conversation turned to shing recently likely has heard my opinion of cormorants, and it isn’t favorable. I’ve wri en and spoken unkindly of them for decades now and have no intention of slowing my campaign of education on what they do to Texas sheries.
ere actually are six species of cormorants native to North America, not a one of them are worth a plugged nickel to view or to eat. at contradicts the folkloric notion that cormorants were a centuries-ago gi from some faraway ruler, but it doesn’t change what cormorants do wherever they go.
In total, their North American population is pegged at somewhere between 800,000 and more than a million. On average, each of them consumes about a pound of sh daily. When food is abundant, they can and do eat lots more.
Never mind what they look like. Not all babies are pre y. Never mind that when they take over a water body and rest or dry their wings on piers or bulkheads or in trees, they defecate until the entire surface below them appears covered in at latex ceiling paint.
My greater concern is their ability to quite literally destroy pond and small-lake sheries, something I’ve learned rsthand.
For nearly 10 years now, I’ve enjoyed access to what once were a pair of quality, private shing lakes, 12-15 acres total of premier water. My young son and I could walk the banks there most any a ernoon and catch three or four dozen bass in two hours. Didn’t ma er what we threw, didn’t ma er whether the sky was gray or blue. Windy. Calm. Hot. Cold. Didn’t ma er.
ve to nine pounds.
Who Put Cormorants in Charge of Our Fisheries?
e smaller of the two lakes was a li le skewed toward sh of about a pound but produced a few each day up to ve.
e larger lake held fewer but signi cantly larger sh. I’ve caught one legit double-digit bass from that piece of water and several from
Back to the birds. For so long as I’ve shed those lakes, there were always a few cormorants hanging around. Half a dozen one day, maybe a dozen the next, but nothing noteworthy. en during summer maybe four or ve years ago, I was excited to see a major shad hatch on the big lake. Millions of tiny sh, shining like newly minted quarters and showering in all directions when my lure hit the water – or when a few young bass chased them to the surface. Much fun was had on white crankbaits and spinnerbaits then.
A week or two later, when those shad were a couple inches long, suddenly there were hundreds if not a thousand cormorants on site. And what I witnessed for the next several days was nothing short of the absolute annihilation of those forage sh.
Working in unison, that legion of cormorants would land on the water, spread their ranks 40 or 50 yards wide, and then dive and push and dive and push everything in front of them into shallow water where they were savaged by the birds. Any shad that somehow escaped the cormorants was picked o by wading birds that knew what was up and had gathered along the bank.
When they nished in one corner of a lake, they’d all li o and go to another, herding shad and gorging themselves nearly all day long. is routine would continue, I’ve witnessed several times since, I presume, until they’d picked the lakes clean of small sh.
:: by DOUG PIKE TF&G Senior Contributing Editor
only the to repeat the same, devastating event. either. ere are accounts of cormorants eating gray or blue. Windy. Calm. Hot. Cold. Didn’t signi cantly larger sh. I’ve that
e day a er they’d done their damage, only that original handful of cormorants was on hand, there I can only assume to serve as watchkeepers until the next hatch. And every time since I’ve seen the shiny ickers of new shad on the lake surface, hundreds more cormorants returned a short time later to repeat the same, devastating event. It’s not just small shad those birds eat, either. ere are accounts of cormorants eating largemouth bass nearly a foot long, which I fear
has been the fate of nearly all of both lakes’ juvenile bass and the once-countless sun sh in that smaller lake.
So what to do about cormorants and their devastation?
e Texas Parks and Wildlife Department o ers permits now to “control” these birds in areas where they’re shown to have signi cant detrimental e ect on sheries. But the problem in too many cases now is that the birds are destroying sheries on lakes and ponds in neighborhoods and subdivisions, on golf courses and parks and other places where shooting them would be di cult at best and potentially unsafe for people anywhere nearby.
I don’t know what can be done on the lakes referenced above or the thousands more small water bodies in our state plucked clean by these ghastly birds, but I’m open to suggestions.
Here’s why: Even knowing that lake as intimately as I do, my past six a empts at shing there have generated a grand total of zero bites. Not one. And for the youngsters and old men who so enjoyed that opportunity for so long, that’s tragic.
I taught at least a dozen kids how to sh there, including my son, and they loved learning – because they caught sh. Now, even I’ve quit trying there, and I’m among the most optimistic people ever to make a cast.
If Texas truly treasures its freshwater sheries, TPWD needs to step in and step up to reduce the cormorant population statewide.
Email Doug Pike at contactus@fishgame.com
HE
TEXAS COAST is caught between development and conservation. With sprawling industrial expansions, aggressive land development, and relentless dredging, the delicate ecosystems that support fishing and hunting traditions are under immense pressure. Maintaining
the balance between progress and preservation is not just an ecological necessity—it’s vital for the heritage of Texas sportsmen and women.
For Gulf Coast anglers, healthy oyster reefs are more than a shellfish concern. They’re critical to the marine food web. Oyster reefs serve as natural water filters, improve water clarity, and provide
essential habitat for fish species like speckled trout, redfish, and flounder. Unfortunately, years of overharvesting and habitat loss have pushed these reefs to the brink.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s (TPWD) recent oyster harvest restrictions in bays like Galveston and Matagorda have been met with mixed
reactions. While necessary to protect dwindling stocks, these closures directly impact fishing guides and the anglers who rely on productive waters. TPWD and conservation groups are working on reef restoration projects, but progress is slow, and the pressures of dredging continue to take a toll. We will talk more about this shortly.
Dredging, particularly in major shipping channels, stirs up sediments that suffocate oyster beds and disrupt spawning cycles. Anglers frequently observe the effects firsthand, noting murky waters and declining catches. Balancing port maintenance with habitat conservation is critical to ensuring fish populations thrive, benefiting not only the environment but also the anglers who sustain a deep connection to these waters.
For waterfowl hunters, the Texas coast has long been a paradise. The vast network of wetlands and marshes draws millions of ducks, geese, and other migratory birds each year. Yet, these vital habitats are shrinking at an alarming rate due to development and land-use changes.
For Gulf Coast anglers, healthy oyster reefs are more than a shellfish concern.
e Houston-Galveston region alone has lost nearly 30% of its wetlands over the last three decades, much of it to residential and industrial growth. ese marshes are not
just critical for waterfowl—they also act as nurseries for shrimp and crabs and serve as natural storm barriers. As wetlands vanish, so too do the opportunities for hunters to
experience the rich tradition of waterfowling along the Gulf Coast.
Conservation programs, like Ducks Unlimited’s Texas initiatives, are working to restore critical habitats, but the scale of loss far outpaces restoration e orts. Hunters have historically been some of the most passionate conservationists, funding wetland protection through license fees, stamps, and voluntary contributions. eir advocacy will be key in ensuring that marshes and wetlands remain part of the Texas landscape.
Despite the challenges, the Texas coast o ers a glimmer of hope for sportsmen and women. Anglers and hunters have been at the forefront of advocating for sustainable practices and habitat restoration. Oyster reef rebuilding projects, such as those led by the Galveston Bay Foundation, are not just ecological wins—they are investments in the future of Gulf Coast shing.
Similarly, waterfowl hunters’ contributions through the North American Wetlands Conservation Act have funded millions of dollars in habitat restoration, helping secure key wintering grounds for ducks and geese. However, these e orts
need to be scaled up to counterbalance the relentless march of development.
Sportsmen and women can also play a direct role in shaping the future. By joining conservation organizations, participating in habitat restoration projects, and advocating for balanced land-use policies, they can ensure that Texas remains a haven for fishing and hunting. The voices of those who know the coast best—its anglers and hunters—are critical in guiding sustainable development policies.
Hunters and anglers are the original conservationists. They have a unique connection to the land and water that drives them to protect these resources. But the challenges along the Texas coast demand action from everyone who cherishes the outdoors.
A highlight of how we should move forward with coastal conservation has been exhibited by the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA).
They have played a pivotal force in oyster conservation along the Texas coast. As one of the nation’s leading advocacy groups for saltwater anglers, CCA has long recognized
the importance of healthy oyster reefs to both the environment and the fishing community.
CCA’s efforts include spearheading reef restoration projects and advocating for sustainable management practices. Through partnerships with state agencies like the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) and organizations such as the Galveston Bay Foundation, CCA has helped rebuild critical oyster habitats in areas devastated by hurricanes, dredging, and overharvesting. These projects involve placing recycled oyster shells and limestone in strategic locations to create new reef structures, providing habitat for oysters and shelter for fish, shrimp, and crabs.
Additionally, CCA has championed the creation of oyster sanctuaries, areas where harvesting is prohibited to allow oyster populations to recover and thrive. Sanctuaries not only enhance biodiversity but also improve water quality by leveraging oysters’ natural filtration abilities.
Flatsworthy, a Texas-based nonprofit focused on promoting responsible stewardship of coastal resources, has been
instrumental in fostering sustainable oyster conservation efforts. With a mission rooted in fostering harmony among diverse user groups, Flatsworthy has worked to unite anglers, commercial fishers, and conservationists to address declining oyster populations.
The organization has actively supported initiatives to establish oyster sanctuaries along the Texas coast, emphasizing the importance of no-harvest zones to allow depleted reefs to regenerate.
Flatsworthy’s outreach includes community engagement, encouraging respectful resource use and promoting the critical role oysters play in the Gulf Coast ecosystem. Through education and collaboration, Flatsworthy is making an impact.
By uniting as stewards of the coast— whether through oyster restoration, wetland protection, or advocating for sustainable practices—we can all help ensure the Gulf Coast remains a thriving haven for wildlife and fisheries.
BASS FISHING IN TEXAS,
WITH its sprawling reservoirs and legendary lakes, presents anglers with both opportunities and challenges. Whether you’re chasing a trophy largemouth in Lake Fork or navigating the grassy shallows of Sam Rayburn, choosing between giant lures and finesse techniques can make or break your day. Here’s a guide to understanding when to go big and bold or small and subtle.
1. SEASONAL INFLUENCE:
MATCHING THE MOOD OF BASS
In spring, during the pre-spawn and spawn, bass are aggressive. This is the perfect time to throw giant lures like swimbaits or oversized crankbaits. However, in the heat of a Texas summer, bass often retreat to deeper, cooler waters, where finesse techniques such as drop shots and Ned rigs shine. Adapt your strategy to the season to maximize success.
2. WEATHER PATTERNS AND LIGHT LEVELS
Cloudy, overcast days or early mornings favor giant lures. These conditions embolden bass to chase large prey. On bright, clear days, finesse lures often outperform, especially in high-pressured lakes where bass are skittish. Pay attention to the sky and adjust your presentation accordingly.
3. WATER CLARITY DICTATES APPROACH
In murky waters common after Texas storms, loud, oversized lures with bright colors help bass locate the target. Conversely, in clear water reservoirs like Lake Amistad, subtle presentations using finesse worms or jigs often produce more strikes. Giant lures might spook bass in such pristine conditions.
4. TARGETING AGGRESSION VS. CAUTIOUS FEEDERS
When bass are actively feeding or during competitive scenarios like schooling, they’ll strike at almost anything big. Large topwater lures or glide baits can create exciting moments. When bass are lethargic or heavily pressured, finesse lures mimicking a small, easy meal will coax bites from hesitant fish.
Scan to Hear Audio Version q
5. Structure and Cover Considerations
Heavy vegetation, timber, or dense brush piles are ideal for big lures like frogs or bulky jigs that can punch through cover. In sparse vegetation or rocky bo oms, nesse lures excel as they mimic small, natural prey and avoid snagging.
6. Trophy Hunting Calls for Bigger Bait
If you’re targeting a lunker bass—the kind Texas is famous for—giant lures are your best bet. Larger prey items naturally a ract larger predators. But remember, trophy sh are o en solitary and wary, so presentation and patience are key.
7. Pressure from Other Anglers
Texas lakes are popular, and bass in pressured waters can become conditioned to avoid big, ashy lures. In these situations, nesse presentations stand out as they mimic natural prey and o er a quieter, less intrusive approach.
8. Matching the Hatch
Pay a ention to the size of bait sh in the lake. When shad or bluegill are abundant and large, use big lures to match their size. However, if the forage base consists of smaller minnows or young shad, downsizing to nesse techniques can yield more bites.
9. Time of Day Adjustments
Big lures are most e ective during lowlight conditions—dawn, dusk, or nigh ime, when bass are more likely to hunt actively. During midday, when bass o en hunker down in deeper water, nesse presentations become invaluable for drawing strikes.
In heavy vegetation, frogs or bulky jigs can punch through cover.
10. Reading Bass Behavior
Observing bass activity is essential. When they’re chasing bait aggressively, giant lures can mimic eeing prey e ectively. If bass appear neutral or uninterested, a slower nesse approach, like dragging a shaky head worm, can change the game.
Fishing for bass in Texas requires adaptability. Giant lures and nesse techniques each have their time and place, and learning to read the conditions and the behavior of your quarry is crucial. Whether you’re targeting the shallow grass of Lake Fork or the deep ledges of Toledo Bend, balancing boldness with subtlety ensures success.
So next time you hit the water, pack your swimbaits and your drop shots—Texas bass will let you know what they prefer.
If you’re going after trophy bass, the bigger the bait, the better.
...the 10 Things You Really Need to Succeed
story
by Chester Moore
URKEY HUNTING IS ONE OF THE MOST adrenaline-inducing pursuits in the outdoors. Few experiences compare to the sight of a tom stru ing into range or the sound of a gobble breaking the morning silence. To be successful, however, hunters need to equip themselves not only with gear but also with knowledge and respect for the bird. Here are ten essentials every turkey hunter should carry into the eld, paired with the wisdom of a conservation-minded hunter.
1| A RELIABLE SHOTGUN
Your shotgun is your primary tool, and it needs to be suited to the task. Whether you prefer a 12-gauge or 20-gauge, ensure it pa erns well with your chosen turkey load. Take the time to pa ern your shotgun before the season to nd the optimal combination of choke and ammunition. Success o en hinges on preparation, not just luck.
2| THE RIGHT CALLS
Turkey calls are an art form. A variety of calls— box, slate, and diaphragm—should be in your kit. Each has its unique sound and purpose. A diaphragm call, for example, excels in producing realistic hen yelps, while a box call can carry sound on windy days. Mastering these calls through practice is key to bringing a tom within range.
Turkey hunting is one of the most adrenaline-inducing pursuits in the outdoors.
3| Camo Clothing
Turkeys have incredible eyesight, so head-to-toe camou age is non-negotiable. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are ideal for warm spring days, while gloves and a facemask ensure you remain undetected. Match your camo pa ern to the terrain—whether it’s lush woodlands or open elds.
4| A Comfortable Seat
Turkey hunting o en requires patience, and si ing still for extended periods can be challenging. A portable cushion or low-prole chair provides comfort and keeps you o damp ground. Being comfortable allows you to stay focused and ready when the moment comes.
5| Decoys
Decoys add a visual element to your calls, increasing your chances of luring in a bird. A hen decoy, paired with a jake or gobbler, can provoke a dominant tom to come in aggressively. Proper placement—usually 20-25
yards out and facing slightly toward your position—is crucial for an e ective setup.
6| Binoculars
Even in thick woods, a good pair of binoculars is invaluable for spo ing birds at a distance or scanning the terrain for movement. Lightweight and compact models are ideal for turkey hunters who need to stay mobile.
7| Water and Snacks
e excitement of turkey hunting o en means skipping meals or staying in the eld longer than planned. Hydration and light snacks like trail mix or energy bars keep you sharp and prevent fatigue from cu ing your hunt short.
8| A Quality Knife
A sharp, durable knife is essential for eld dressing your bird and other tasks, like trimming branches for be er shooting lanes. Choose a blade that’s easy to handle
and maintain, as it will be a versatile tool in your pack.
9| A Good Pack
A well-organized pack keeps your gear accessible and secure. Choose one with multiple compartments to store calls, decoys, water, and other essentials. Look for a lightweight design with adjustable straps for comfort during long hikes.
10| Lay of the Land
No piece of gear can replace understanding the behavior of turkeys and the terrain you’re hunting. Scouting ahead of the season is crucial. Look for roosting areas, feeding zones, and travel routes. Combine your knowledge of turkey pa erns with a good map or GPS to navigate e ectively and stay legal.
Conservation Connection
Turkey hunters are among the most passionate advocates for wildlife conservation. Groups like the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) have played a vital role in restoring wild turkey populations across the United States. rough habitat restoration, research, and hunter education, NWTF has ensured that future generations can enjoy the thrill of turkey hunting.
As hunters, we have a responsibility to give back. Supporting organizations like NWTF through memberships, donations, or volunteering is a meaningful way to contribute to the preservation of turkeys and their habitat. By doing so, we help sustain the rich traditions of turkey hunting while fostering a broader culture of conservation.
TF&G’s good friend Lee Zimmeran of the NWTF of Texas Golden Crescent Chapter has shown us that turkeys are a great platform to get people interested in conservation and through their groundbreaking youth outreach e orts they have shown it can get the interest of a young generation.
Turkey hunting is about more than just bagging a bird—it’s about connecting with nature and respecting the balance of wildlife and the environment. With the right gear, preparation, and a commitment to conservation, you’re not just a hunter but a hunter-conservationist.
‘Today is the Day’
THE ALARM SOUNDED OFF and I jumped out of bed. Why not? I couldn’t sleep anyway.
A er a hot shower with scent away soap, I dressed in my camo and headed to my friend Tom’s house. He was just as excited as I was. “Today is the day.” At least that is what I told Tom just like I did every time we headed to the deer woods!
It was the end of October, and a cold front was predicted for later that evening. I just knew that the whitetails would be out feeding throughout the day. I had made up my mind that I was going to be in a tree stand with a bow in my hand.
Under a blanket of darkness, we both headed to our pre-determined stands. Tom decided to hunt in what we call the “waterhole stand” that basically funneled deer to a stream bed. I chose to hunt along the edge of a swale eld. A swamp was to my back and this particular eld had a path cut all around the edges. Not only was it a good bedding area, but it also was close to that swamp where big boys like to hide.
e light wind carried my scent across the eld and directly where I expected the deer to come from, but I was not worried at all. I had the Ozonics 600 machine with me and it is with me every time I go hunting. Once the Ozonics 600 is in place, you become invisible to the whitetails. I have put it to the test so many times before that I was absolutely sure I would go undetected.
Dawn seemed to take forever to nally peek over the horizon. But peek it did, and the promise of a beautiful sunny day began. I texted Tom every hour to see if he had been seeing anything. Suddenly, I caught movement coming out of the swamp. e four point came out to the eld and stood there for what seemed to be an hour!
I guess it was only a few long minutes. Finally, he started to make his way towards me. I eased my phone up and hit the video
Bare Bones HUNTING
he walked by none the wiser. I loved it and
bu on. He was only 5 yards from me when he walked by none the wiser. I loved it and the smile on my face was still there when I sent Tom the video!
::
ree hours had passed and both Tom and I hadn’t seen another deer. I was beginning to think that maybe “ is was not the day”! Slowly my head would turn, and my eyes would focus on the woods. A er a few minutes, I turned my head in the other direction and there he was! e majestic eight pointer came through the hedgerow across from me and was standing in the sunlight. e buck looked so beautiful, I wanted to take a picture of him with my phone, but he was only 50 yards from me and the only movement I wanted to make was with my bow.
and I hadn’t seen another deer. I was begin-
by LOU MARULLO TF&G Hunting Editor
whitetail was down somewhere between us. A er 45 minutes, I climbed down from my perch and looked for rst blood. Shortly a er that, I found my arrow, a clean pass through told me that the buck would not be far.
He stood still and just li ed his nose in the air to survey the eld in search of any danger. With the Ozonics 600 aiming directly towards him, he never caught a whi of my human scent. I really can’t say enough about the Ozonics 600. It completely hides human scent, and the new longer ba ery life is a huge plus when you hunt for hours. It is the ONLY thing available to hunters that actually works at completely hiding your odor from wildlife. As far as I am concerned, it will always be in my backpack whenever I go hunting and the rst thing I set up once I am safely secure with my safety harness.
As luck would have it, the buck decided to slowly walk towards the security of the swamp where he was going to nd a spot to bed down for the day. At 45 yards and closing, I watched him put his head down to feed on something. is was my opportunity to ease my bow o the bow hanger and prepare for a good humane shot. At full draw, I anxiously waited…and waited…. And waited for him to take those last few steps that would bring him out of the thick swale o ering me a clear 35-yard shot. Finally, I released my arrow and it found it’s mark just behind the shoulder of that beautiful whitetail buck.
I immediately texted Tom to let him know a wounded buck was heading right for him and a er 15 minutes had passed, he texted back le ing me know that the buck never made it to him. I was convinced the
Soon I heard Tom on his 4-wheeler coming to help with the blood trail. On his way to meet me he found the buck and called me over. e 8 point was heading right to Tom’s stand but never made it. However, he did manage to nd his way to my freezer! “Today was the day!”
FROM AUTUMN BUCKS TO SPRINGTIME TOMS
Once in a while things just fall into place and this hunt was one of those times. ese are the types of hunts that stay locked in your memory for years to come. I only hope that this turkey season brings me the result I am looking for.
It is always nice to bring home a bird that you hunted for, but really, at the end of the day, it is the good memory of a great hunt. It ma ers not if you are successful bringing home your turkey. ere is so much more to experience while out hunting… but let’s be honest... a turkey dinner sure sounds good!
Have fun and hunt safe.
u
Email Lou Marullo at ContactUs@fishgame.com
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AKE CONROE HAS LONG been celebrated as one of Texas premier big bass lakes, and for good reason. It’s a magnet for Houston-area anglers chasing trophy largemouth bass and other species, making this 22,000 acre reservoir iconic.
As an outdoor writer researching this popular shery, I set out to uncover what makes Lake Conroe so special for bass—to dig deeper than just looking at a few of its historical catches.
In 2024, Lake Conroe was again at the center of the shing world, thanks
to a string of impressive catches that have earned spots in the ShareLunker program.
But what is it about Conroe that produces these heavyweight bass year a er year?
rough research and conversations with experts, I delved into the science and lore behind one of Texas’s most iconic sheries.
Food Chain Powerhouse: Panfish and Prey Abundance
One of the most striking things about Lake Conroe is its robust pan sh population. Bluegill, redear sun sh, and even
crappie abound here, creating a yearround bu et for largemouth bass. On any given day, schools of bluegill can be seen hovering around docks and splashes are heard in the shallows as pan sh are chased by predators.
Research highlights how crucial this forage base is to the lake’s ecosystem. Bass need consistent access to high-calorie prey to grow to trophy sizes, and Conroe’s pan sh provide just that.
Reports of hand-sized bluegill and chunky redears
being caught regularly a rm the abundance of prey available to sustain the lake’s legendary bass population.
An overlooked aspect is Conroe’s crappie population. Savvy big bass specialists know that brush piles and docks baited for crappie have big bass prowling around them. Crappie shing is extremely popular on the lake, and numerous anglers have reported having monster bass take the crappie o their lines while reeling them up.
Big Bass DNA: ShareLunker Success
Another critical factor in Lake Conroe’s big bass success story is its connection to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s (TPWD) ShareLunker program. Conroe has consistently contributed, with numerous bass over 13 pounds submi ed to the program. ese sh are o en used in spawning programs to create genetically superior o spring, which are stocked back into the lake where they originated.
Conroe is in the top 10 lakes in Texas for Sharelunker production, and it has reaped the conservation bene ts.
According to TPWD, in 1998, the
biggest largemouth bass ever collected by TPWD in an electro shing survey was taken from beneath a boat dock and weighed 14.1 pounds. e standing lake record caught in 2009 by angler Ricky Bearden weighed 15.93 pounds—a truly monster bass.
Conversing With A Conroe Winner
Bassmaster Elite Series pro Keith Combs knows something about catching big bass on Lake Conroe.
Keith Combs secured two Toyota Texas Bass Classic ( BC) victories on Lake Conroe with impressive total weights:
2011 Victory: Keith Combs and Mike Iaconelli each achieved a total weight of 76 pounds, 12 ounces across three days of competition. e tie resulted in a sudden-death sh-o , where Combs secured victory by catching a 15-inch bass before Iaconelli could respond.
2013 Victory: Keith Combs dominated the tournament from start to nish, ending with an impressive total weight of 62 pounds, 12 ounces over three days. He outpaced the runner-up by a remarkable
margin of 12 pounds, 8 ounces.
Combs said part of Conroe’s secret to big bass production involves quality over quantity.
“ e lake probably doesn’t have as big of a bass population as some of the other top bass lakes due to Conroe not having much grass. But what Conroe does have is a good number of big sh, which is why you have seen major tournaments where the big sh of the day was over 10 pounds”, Combs said.
Prime examples came in 2024 when Michael Murrey landed an 11.51-pound largemouth bass. is Elite-class sh measured an impressive 25.25 inches. e second biggest catch occurred when Dustin Walkoviak reeled in a 10.46-pound largemouth bass. is trophy sh measured 24.25 inches.
Management Matters: A Balancing Act
Lake Conroe hasn’t achieved its status as a big bass hotspot by accident. It’s the result of years of careful management by TPWD and local stakeholders. From stocking Florida-strain largemouth bass to main-
Bassmaster Elie Series pro Keith Combs won two Toyota Texas Bass Classic on Lake Conroe. He said crankbaits can be a deadly weapon in pursuit of big bass on the lake.
taining water quality and vegetation levels, the e orts to balance recreational use with ecological health are impressive.
One notable initiative has been the introduction of arti cial sh habitats. TPWD has deployed structures like brush piles and arti cial reefs in areas with sparse natural cover. Anglers can even access maps showing these habitat locations, making it easier to target productive spots.
TPWD notes that largemouth bass anglers can expect to take bass in shallow water, particularly around marinas and boat docks, in the early spring and mid-to-late fall. In other seasons, bass are taken around deeper cover. Anglers are most successful with various shad imitation lures or so plastic baits.
Anglers out to catch the bass of a lifetime should consider using large pan sh-imitation swimbaits around docks and shad or even yellow/white bass imitations out on
the open water. Conroe bass are used to eating big prey, so don’t be afraid to get a li le gaudy if the size of your swimbait is too big.
Closing Thoughts
rough careful research and analysis, it’s clear that Lake Conroe is a special place for anglers. Its ability to produce giant bass year a er year is no accident but rather the result of managing habitat, forage, and genetics.
Whether chasing your next trophy bass or enjoying a peaceful day catching bluegill with the family, Lake Conroe o ers something for everyone. With continued care and a ention, it will remain a Texas treasure for years to come.
Oh, and if you do decide to do some bluegill shing, don’t be surprised if a massive bass comes up to steal your catch.
As we’ve noted, that kind of thing happens on Lake Conroe, where
Top 5 Conroe ShareLunkers of 2024
• Weight: 11.51 lbs
• Date: 03/05/2024
• Class: Strike King Elite
• Length: 25.25 in
2. DUSTIN WALKOVIAK
• Weight: 10.46 lbs
• Date: 02/21/2024
• Class: Bass Pro Shops Lunker
• Length: 24.25 in
• Weight: 10.10 lbs
• Date: 06/30/2024
• Class: Strike King Elite
4.
• Weight: 8.70 lbs
• Date: 07/14/2024
• Class: Bass Pro Shops Lunker
• Length: 23.50 in
• Weight: 8.64 lbs
• Date: 03/01/2024
• Class: Bass Pro Shops Lunker
• Length: 24.50 in
giant bass are the apex predator of their reservoir habitat.
1. MICHAEL MURREY
3. WALTER RAMIREZ
WILLIAM MITTASCH
5. JOHNATHON BARELA
Good electronics are the key to locaitng big bass on the many brushpiles on Lake Conroe
Find brushpiles loaded with crappie on Conroe and you’ll find big bass.
RTICLES THAT PROFESS TO
o er a number of ways to get be er at something I care about always a ract me.
From cooking to running, if it has three or four de ned tips, I am going to read it. I honestly think that is why I like writing similarly focused articles about trout and red sh shing so much. O en a few focused tips can give someone something new to work with, and possibly more importantly, it gets them into a mindset of
improvement. e tips, tactics and items are valuable, but ge ing a mindset of improvement is priceless in mastering whatever you are pursuing.
In this article I describe several things that I know have made me a be er angler through the years, and I am condent they will help you as well. But, one of the keys to making these items work for you is actually doing them.
It is a part of human nature to feel very motivated to do something new, but neglect to ever implement it. With the suggestions in this article, if you think any one or all of them will help you, either do it today or mark it on your calendar with a speci c date and time to do it. A simple
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step like that can ensure that you actually try to a ect change and forward your skills in angling.
Get A Great Pair of Sunglasses
I have long wri en about the importance of having a good pair of polarized sunglasses. From my rst pair to my latest set, they have always been an invaluable tool for connecting my senses to the water. e obvious primary value is penetrating the water’s surface and blocking out glare that obstructs your vision, but collaterally, I believe they be er connect you to the whole ecosystem you are shing. ey make you acutely aware of the aspects of your visual se ing and when you are that focused, it enhances all of your other senses as well. As odd as it sounds, I think a great pair of glasses helps you get be er in tune with every noise, subtle tide di erence, bay bo om changes and many other important aspects necessary in reading the bay.
You will note that the subhead for this section asks you to get a “great” pair of glasses, not an adequate one or even good one. e reason I write this is because there truly are a lot of great polarized glasses to choose from now. I vividly remember my rst pair of Strike King Bill Dance sunglasses and am struck by how far polarized glasses technology has come since then, particularly in just the past ve years. ere are multiple brands that have lenses that were unthinkable not long ago, and frames that are incredibly light, durable and amazingly adaptive to a multitude of types of facial structure. Although many of the “great” glasses are pricier than they have been in the past, the investment is worth it. Always remember, your sunglasses are your window into the ecosystem you are shing. ey are that important.
Tighten Up Your Gear
is sounds elementary but is likely one of the easiest ways to become a be er angler rapidly. Although there are those gearheads who keep their tackle immaculate and up-todate, there are many (me included) who have a propensity for le ing neglect creep into our favorite passion. It’s easy to do. For me, I return from a shing trip and o en put up my gear in haste. I quickly rinse everything, roughly let lures set out to dry and quickly neglect to focus on all the important details
that could directly impact my next trip. Are my hooks sharp? Is it time to change my line? How old is my leader material and have I checked the leader I was using last? Is my reel truly clean? Generally, if I am asking these questions, the answer to every one is at best maybe and most likely no…not great answers. e neglect becomes worse when you honestly think about how few trips you get in through a year, and within that, how many bites are you really going to get? In that perspective, you realize that every trip and every bite ma ers a lot. Regularly changing your line, taking the time to replace hooks on topwaters and sharpening jigheads can actually make a big di erence, and can o en be accomplished quickly and at a low price. Many years ago when I was a shing guide, I was amazed how many times a group would pay a signi cant amount of money to book a trip and show up wildly unprepared. ey would o en drive a long distance to meet me at the dock and still show up with year-old line and a ta ered lure box. When you think about basic maintenance in that light, it becomes silly that we would ever neglect it…particularly when it is something you can likely make progress on today.
Go Virtual
I have always been a believer in the fact that the best way to become a be er angler is to go sh. If you are observant and open minded, every time you are on the water provides an opportunity for learning and improving. But the truth is for most, you simply do not get the opportunity to go shing as much as you would like. Remarkably, as misleading and manipulative as the internet and social media can be, there is also a lot of good information to nd if you are willing to
look for it. Honestly, I never thought I would recommend that. For years, I chastised friends who would reference something they learned from a YouTube video or Instagram post. It was laughable to me, but I must admit, my opinion has changed. In some cases, anglers’ desire to boast and brag can overtake their sensibility to keep the exact details of their successful shing pa ern to themselves. It’s kind of ironic. ey show what they are doing with every possible marker as to where they are, and at times you are able to actually get that information in real-time. Although it may not be immediately valuable due to timing on your next trip, it can still be critical information that provides a new pa ern and methodology in your game plan for the future.
cases, anglers’
Additionally, there are those guides and anglers who truly have the heart of a teacher and want to convey positive and productive information. Although they will thoughtfully withhold some of the critical details to ensure they can stay on their successful pa erns, they pass along vital information on bait selection, general seasonal and conditional pa erns and provide a sound insight into their tactical thinking in the various environmental conditions. Capt. Jay Watkins has historically been a leader in this, and as crusty and set in my ways as I can be, I nd myself regularly gaining insight into new lure styles and designs from his Instagram feed that I otherwise would have completely missed. Additionally, when you are hearing and seeing these insights from people who you trust and are pu ing in the hours, you get the added and critically valuable addition of con dence in your new found insights.
ere is no one tip, tactic or insight alone that will make you a be er angler. But, by making sure you always try to be a student of angling, you will never stop improving. I am o en reminded of an ancient Japanese saying, “Never lose your beginner’s spirit.” at applies in so many aspects of life, but undoubtedly, it perfectly ts shing. If you are always passionate about learning, you are always improving. at may be the best tip of all.
:: by LENNY RUDOW
TF&G Boating Editor
The Engine Killers
TODAY’S OUTBOARDS HAVE the potential to run with about the same reliability as a modern automobile, which is a huge blessing for anglers and hunters. Note, however, the use of the word “potential.” Naturally, to get this sort of reliability out of an engine you have to maintain it properly and follow all of the manufacturer’s recommended regular service. But beyond that, even when properly cared for there are some things some of us do which amount to shooting ourselves in the foot, outboard-wise. As you cruise, cast, and blast, be sure to avoid making these engine-killing mistakes.
1. GETTING ALL WOUND UP: ere isn’t a boat-owning angler on the planet who hasn’t wrapped his or her prop with shing line a time or two… or three, or four, or ve. And as you probably have heard, this can have rather disastrous results. e line can cut into the prop seal, allowing water into the lower unit. If you wrap a prop and see an oil sheen on the surface don’t try to limp home. Call for a tow and consider yourself lucky for having spo ed the damage before your outdrive was completely demolished. Because if you don’t spot that sheen, your lower unit will probably fail in a spectacularly catastrophic manner sooner rather than later. If you notice a line wrap as it happens, shut down the engine, tilt it up, and unwind the line o of the prop and lower unit by hand. When possible, avoid cu ing the line because if you can pull it and get the prop spinning, you can unwind the mess a lot faster than if you’re trying to pull out small bits and pieces.
Texas BOATING
When in deep water where you can’t get out of the boat and work on the mess with ease, sometimes you can get the prop spinning with the helping hand of a crewmember. Have them use a mop handle or boathook to spin the prop while you pull on the end of the line. In any case, don’t tilt the engine back down and start running until all of the line has been removed.
crewmember.
2. FAILING TO FLUSH:
Each and every time you run an outboard in saltwater it should get a thorough freshwater ush. Period. Your owner’s manual surely recommends it, yet plenty of people out there will tell you it’s not necessary to do so each and every time. Ignore them—this is patently bad advice. Interesting factoid: through the years I’ve spoken with several people who were advised by their dealer to ush the motor every four or ve trips, rather than every time. e same dealer will be servicing the engine in case repairs are needed—draw your own conclusions as to their motivation. Flush that motor with a religious fervor, on the other hand, and you’ll keep the cooling passages inside the engine clean and clear. Your water pump impeller will function be er and last longer (when you don’t ush and saltwater dries inside the water pump, the impeller will be grinding against dried salty grit the next time you start the engine up). Internal corrosion will be kept at bay. Along with changing the oil and lters on a regular basis this is probably the number one thing you can do to prevent engine failure over the long term.
Tip: If you won’t have access to a freshwater hose a er a trip, you can still take care of business with some advance planning. Haul along a few ve-gallon buckets of freshwater, a short length of hose, and a sump pump, and use them to give that engine a ush at the end of the day.
3.
CATCHING AIR:
Maybe you’re in a hurry to get to that hotspot before the competition does, or maybe you just nd it fun to hop over waves and catch some air. Well, it might be fun, but it can also be thoroughly destructive to an outboard. If the prop starts sucking air the engine can rev wildly beyond its intended speed. And, while modern outboards do have over-rev limiters, it’s not the sheer speed that kills – it’s the sudden re-entry. If you’re cruising along at 4500 rpm, catch some air, and the engine spins up to 6500 before the limiter kicks in, when the
prop comes back down the sudden jolt of resistance can bend important stu like propsha s, or sha er important stu like gear teeth. When you see a large wave and ying into the great blue yonder is a distinct possibility, ease o on the thro le and make sure that prop remains in the water where it belongs.
4. STARTING WITHOUT WATER:
Dry-starting an out board is verboten, regardless of the reason or duration. Many people assume that brie y doing so is no big deal since the engine won’t have enough time to overheat. But the water pump impeller must (must!) be lubricated by water at all times, or it’s likely to crumble, rip, or shred. While replacing an impeller is a fairly easy, inexpensive job, if you damage the impeller but it still works long enough for you to cruise 20 miles away from the boat ramp before it fails, you’ll be in a rather undesirable predicament.
5. SHIFTING THROUGH NEUTRAL:
Chances are you’ve done this a time or two by accident. Especially with today’s modern silky-smooth digital shi and thro le it’s all too easy to go from forward directly into reverse, or vise-versa. Most modern systems have a built-in failsafe which will create a slight hesitation or won’t allow the shi to take place if the rpms are too high. But even with these safeties shi ing too fast can still deliver quite an abrupt jolt. As a one-time thing damage isn’t likely, but shi ing this rapidly on a regular basis will subject the gears to a lot of unnecessary stress. So, always shi into neutral and pause for at least a second or two, before moving the thro le again.
If you look out for all of these engine-killing mistakes, will your outboard run perfectly forever? Of course not. But chances are that if you treat that engine right, you’ll enjoy car-like reliability that boat owners could only dream of a few decades ago.
Email Lenny Rudow at contactus@fishgame.com
Obscure Tips and Hidden Secrets for Bowfishing Success
| story by Dustin Vaughn Warncke
BOWFISHING IS A thrilling combination of archery, shing, and hunting which o ers those who brave the waters with a bow shing bow a unique opportunity to target species such as carp, gar, shad, bu alo among other non-game sh species.
e Lone Star State is a haven for bow shers of all ages and skill levels and a hidden gem in many ways. With all of the waterways in this great state, there is an abundance of opportunities to enjoy a very fun and challenging sporting adventure on the water for the rst time ever or want to hone your expert “ninja skills” even further.
One of the most challenging aspects of bow shing is understanding the water’s refraction, which makes sh appear shallower than they actually seem to be from above the surface of the water. While the “aim low” rule may be common knowledge, the importance of tailoring this adjustment to water depth and angle is sometimes overlooked.
especially with the longnose gar sh spawn which was about as wild as bow shing gets!
For daytime adventures, a good tip is to use polarized sunglasses to reduce the glare on the water and get a clearer view of the sh you are targeting, which will help you in gauging the exact distance between the real position of the sh and its perceived location from above the water.
Most seasoned traditional shermen know that chumming an area for species like cat sh is a great way to get more sh in the area you want to cover. One trick I have learned is to “chum the banks” with ca le range cubes you can commonly nd by the bag at your local feed store. e secret here is that while these feed cubes are designed for ca le, they slowly dissolve when submerged in water and they make for a long-lasting sh a ractant for bo om feeding species like carp, bu alo and other sh. row out some range cubes along the shallow water areas, especially along bulk heads, the edges of coves, and other areas close to the bank that you can later troll and wait for around 30 minutes to an hour. en gently approach that area of water and get ready to shoot. If there are sh in the area, they usually can’t resist coming to your chummed areas to feed on the dissolving cubes.
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For nigh ime bow shing excursions, you obviously won’t need sunglasses but a good set of LED lights on your boat, or if bank bow shing, a good CREE LED bow-mounted ashlight will help you see sh deeper in the water and make more accurate shots. e idea is to penetrate the water and get a be er view of your targeted sh.
Another tip is to plan your bow shing time during the spring spawn. Veteran bow shing guide Marty McIntyre of Garquest Bow shing Adventures invited me on a 24 hour 4-lake bow shing marathon in March one year and we experienced quite the target-rich environment,
Creek inlets and coves provide great hiding spots for big sh and can be a hot bed of activity when you approach them.
Play the wind and remember that low and no wind is your friend. We are talking about nding clear and relatively undisturbed water wherever possible.
One thing many bow shers do not keep in mind is that sh are highly sensitive to sounds and vibrations. When navigating shallow waters, minimize noise whenever possible, think stealth-mode, keeping your sound and any potential vibrations to a minimum.
Aim Low, ink Big, and Have Fun!
EAVIS Z. WORTHAM stands as a distinguished voice in the realm of storytelling, seamlessly weaving his talents as a novelist and columnist into an impressive literary legacy. Best known for his critically acclaimed Red River Mystery series and the high-octane Sonny Hawke thrillers, Wortham’s works have captivated readers with their vivid characters, richly drawn se ings, and suspense- lled narratives.
However, beyond the world of ction, Wortham has made a lasting impact as a proli c columnist writing his hilarious “Open Season” column for Texas Fish & Game magazine for 25 years.
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Born and raised in rural northeast Texas, Wortham channels his deep connection to the Lone Star State into his writing, bringing an authentic voice to both his novels and his journalistic pursuits. His ction o en draws from his upbringing in small-town Texas, capturing the rhythms of rural life and the complexities of human relationships. is authenticity has earned Wortham critical acclaim, with his debut novel, e Rock Hole, being named one of Kirkus Reviews’ Best
Wortham’s mystery novels have won awards and critical acclaim.
Books of 2011. As a columnist for Texas Fish & Game, Wortham has cultivated a loyal readership with his “Open Season” column, which puts a humorous spin on an o en too serious outdoors world.
Wortham’s dedication to his cra and his his
contributions to the outdoor and literary communities have not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous awards, including recognition from the Texas Outdoor Writers Association and Outdoor Writers
Association of America.
What sets Wortham apart is his versatility as a writer. Whether chronicling a nail-biting mystery or penning an evocative re ection on cracking us up with his wit, he is a master storyteller.
And we are honored to have him as part of the Texas Fish & Game family.
TPWD Concerned About Screwworm Outbreaks
TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE
Department (TPWD) asks hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts in South Texas to monitor for animals a ected by New World Screwworm (NWS) a er a recent detection in Mexico.
is detection, found in a cow at an inspection checkpoint in the southern
tion known as NWS myiasis. NWS ies lay eggs in open wounds or ori ces of live tissue such as nostrils, eyes or mouth. ese eggs hatch into dangerous parasitic larvae, and the maggots burrow or screw into esh with sharp mouth hooks. Wounds can become larger, and an infestation can o en cause serious, deadly damage or death to
Mexico State of Chiapas, close to the border with Guatemala, follows the progressively northward movement of NWS through both South and Central Americas.
As a protective measure, animal health o cials ask those along the southern Texas border to monitor wildlife, livestock and pets for clinical signs of NWS and immediately report potential cases.
New World screwworms are larvae or maggots of the NWS y (Cochliomyia hominivorax), that cause a painful condi-
the infected animal.
NWS primarily infests livestock but can also a ect humans and wildlife including deer and birds.
e parasite was last eradicated from the U.S. in 1966, with costly e orts by federal and state animal health o cials, livestock producers and veterinary practitioners. Eradication e orts have continued in Central America, but the pest is considered widespread in Cuba, Haiti, Dominican Republic and South American
NEWS of the OUTDOOR Nation the
countries.
Clinical signs of NWS myiasis may include:
• Irritated or depressed behavior
• Loss of appetite
• Head shaking
• Smell of decaying esh
• Presence of maggots in wounds
• Isolation from other animals or people NWS infestations begin when a female NWS y is drawn to the odor of a wound or natural opening on a live, warm-blooded animal, where she lays her eggs. ese openings can include wounds as small as a tick bite, nasal or eye openings, navel of a newborn or genitalia.
One NWS female y can lay up to 300 eggs at a time and may lay up to 3,000 eggs during her lifespan. Eggs hatch into larvae (maggots) that burrow into an opening to feed. A er feeding, larvae drop to the ground, burrow into the soil and emerge as adult NWS ies. Adult NWS ies can y long distances, and the movement of infested livestock or wildlife can increase the rate of spread.
Bird Flu Hits Texas
THE NATIONAL VETERINARY SERvices Laboratories (NVSL) con rmed the presence of Highly Pathogenic Avian In uenza (HPAI) in multiple locations throughout the state. Disease experts indicate that HPAI is circulating among wild birds in Texas as waterbirds and waterfowl are on their wintering grounds.
Detections have been found in Wharton, Galveston, and Harris counties.
Detected in all states across the U.S., HPAI is a highly contagious virus that transmits easily among wild and domestic birds. e virus can spread directly between animals and indirectly through environmental contamination.
Because of the ease of transmission, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) recommends wildlife rehabilitators remain cautious when intaking wild
USDA slide of screwworm larve living in a wound.
animals with clinical signs consistent with HPAI and consider quarantining animals to limit the potential for HPAI exposure to other animals within the facility.
Game bird hunters should consider pre-
cautions such as:
• Dispose of carcasses properly
• Wear gloves when processing
• Avoid consumption or processing of any sick bird
• Clean and disinfect tools between carcasses
• Cook meat to proper temperatures
Currently, the transmission risk of avian in uenza from infected birds to people remains low, but the public should take basic protective measures if contact with wild animals cannot be avoided.
If you encounter a wild animal with signs consistent with HPAI, contact your local TPWD wildlife biologist.
—TF&G Staff Report
HPAI, the bird flu virus, has been found in waterfowl and other wild birds in Texas.
Spring Loaded SABINE
Reported by CAPT. EDDIE HERNANDEZ
EARLY SPRING IS IN THE sights of shermen up and down the coast and we are all anxiously awaiting more and more angling opportunities to slowly begin to pop up. Knowing full well that we have no idea what type of weather conditions we’re going to have from week to week, we are excited about the warm, comfortable days that will be mixed in with some late winter-type conditions.
If you get the opportunity to take advantage of some of the milder, shable days, I highly recommend it. For a lot of people, myself included, there is much more to it than just catching sh. In fact, catching sh consistently this time of year is anything but a guarantee. With the exception of those days that spawn lifelong memories of ge ing a
bite every cast, the unpredictable weather means you may have to work a li le harder to put a successful pa ern together. But this time of year comes with a promise – a promise of new life, warmth and good things to come. It reminds us that spring conditions are right around the corner and summer is not far behind.
Trout and red sh should begin to gang up on the eastern shoreline of the lake as we progress through April and the water continues to warm. As you work the bank, keep an eye out for birds working over the new recruits of shrimp on the upper end of the lake from Blue Buck Point to Pleasure Island Marina.
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Flounder are also starting to make their way back from the gulf and can be intercepted in the ship channel and passes. Fishing points in the Sabine Neches Waterway are an excellent place to start. GULP! Shrimp and Swimming Mullet are great choices for plastics when dragged slowly along the bo om. Live mud minnows and nger mullet will also get good results. e mouth and eastern shoreline of East Pass can also be red hot for ounder, especially as we get into April.
Hopefully the milder days outnumber the tough days, and I can see you here on Sabine this spring.
e big tides of spring will soon push water deep into places we haven’t been able to sh in awhile. New hatches of shrimp and bait sh will ride these tides deep into the far reaches and begin to rejuvenate the entire ecosystem. From the gulf to the back lakes, these signs of new life will be obvious. As the water temperature slowly begins its ascent up the thermometer, more and more young of the year shad, mullet and shrimp will lead anglers to the big 3 as well as an assortment of other species. e sh’s metabolism will increase with the water temps, and they will begin feeding more aggressively and o en.
GALVESTON
Reported by CAPT. DEREK YORK
WELL, HERE WE ARE again going into the Spring and hoping for good weather and light winds to help make our time out on the water more enjoyable. But o en, it is usually windy this time of year and always seems to be blowing on
the weekends when most of us can get out! Springtime brings on some great shing and the return of lots of people to the bays to enjoy their Spring Break on the water. e good thing is, it’s the perfect time to get out and catch a lot of sh both big and small and have a fun day on the water.
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Two of my main targets are entering their spawning season during this time, the sheepshead and the black drum. Both can be caught around structure from the shoreline such as rocks, pilings and passes. And when I’m out on the boat I concentrate on the Galveston je ies, deep ledges and old gas well pads. Live shrimp and fresh cracked blue crab are my go-to baits for both species.
Sheepshead are typically caught on bo om setups like a knocker rig with live shrimp up close to rocks and structure. If you have never caught a sheepshead, they are generally light biters. ink freshwater crappie, but much bigger! Although sometimes, they will hit hard like red sh. ese sh are probably my favorite to catch and favorite to eat from the bay next to ounder. During this spawning season, they tend to stack up heavily around the gulf passes on the rocks and some days you can catch as many as you want. Currently, the regulations allow you to keep 5 sh per person with a 15-inch minimum size.
Black drum are also starting their spawning season this time of year and man are these big sh fun to catch. My setups are super simple for these sh and pre y much any setup will work. You just need a large circle hook and heavy weight to keep your rig on the bottom. I sh in deeper water usually up to 30 feet sometimes and the current can be fast at times. e main thing
HOTSPOTLIGHT
to
CHRISTMAS BAY
CHRISTMAS BAY IS AN EXTENSION OF WEST GALVESTON BAY, ACROSS SAN LUIS Pass from Galveston Island. The shallow bay is a prime kayak fishing location rich in seagrass beds and plentiful shrimp and crab to attract speckled trout, redfish, flounder and other inshore species.
for these sh, which can reach up to 50 pounds or more, is fresh bait. You can tell the di erence between having good fresh bait versus old bait with most of the scent washed out. I am constantly checking baits to keep them fresh. Some of my favorite areas to target these sh are no secret spots for sure. e concrete ship o Seawolf Park, Texas City Dike, the gas wells area o the end of the dike near Bolivar and around the je ies and Pelican Island bridge are all great places to catch these big black drum. ese aren’t the only sh around this time of year though, as the trout and redsh bite can be great in the bay. So, make sure to get out and take a kid shing when you can! I’ll see you on the water.
CONTACT CAPT. YORK:
Email: SpotStalkerFishing@sbcglobal.com
Online: SpotStalkerGuideService.com
That Warm Feeling Returns
MATAGORDA
Reported by CAPT. MARK TALASEK
I’M DEFINITELY A FAN OF THE warmer months. Hibernation during the winter is not my favorite time of the year. My desired wardrobe consists of shorts, t shirt, and ip- ops. I will growl when I have to walk out of the house with a coat. ere is a limited amount of maintenance that can be done on your equipment before boredom begins to set in. I usually head south of the border a time or two to escape the cold. You guessed it. I can’t wait for
UPPER COAST HOTSPOTS
LOCATION: Christmas/Bastrop Bay
HOTSPOT: Cold Pass
GPS: N 29 4.834, W 95 8.335 (29.0806, -95.1389)
SPECIES: Speckled Trout
BEST BAITS: Soft plastics, mullet
the spring to roll around.
e Houston Fishing Show kicks o the start of a new season. I have been a ending these for over 30 years since my dad started guiding in the 70’s. It’s a good time to meet new friends and talk shing. Stop by and come see us. It’s a great way to see all the new shing gear as well.
Cold fronts come less frequently. Water temperatures start to rise. A new hatch of shrimp hit the marshes. Bait sh re ll the bay systems. Who wouldn’t get excited about working a top water along the shoreline a er being cooped up most of the winter? A lot of the sow trout lay their eggs this time of the year. Your chances of landing a personal best are higher. Work your favorite top water slowly over the grass beds. Glass minnows migrate along the grass on incoming tides. Trout and red sh ll up their belly a er a long winter.
Flounder migrate in from deeper gulf waters. ey are one of the only sh that go o shore to lay eggs with the help of water pressure. Most of the smaller males remain in the bay system. We catch them year round during a mild winter. Water clarity is be er with the cooler temperatures. e bay system is revitalized.
Temperatures are mild. It’s a great time to be on the water.
TIPS: Fish soft plastics in red/white. Natural mullet works best.
LOCATION: Galveston Bay
HOTSPOT: Miller Point
GPS: N 29 27.619, W 94 55.8 (29.4603 -94.9300)
SPECIES: Speckled Trout
BEST BAITS: Soft plastics
TIPS: Pearl/chartreuse soft plastics on Carolina-rig, drift or anchor; dawn-midday, dusk.
LOCATION: Galveston Bay
HOTSPOT: Redfish Bar
GPS: N 29 30.644, W 94 52.387 (29.5107 -94.8731)
SPECIES: Redfish
BEST BAITS: Shrimp
TIPS: Live shrimp 2-3 feet under popping cork, anchor or drift; morning through midday.
LOCATION: Galveston East Bay
HOTSPOT: Anahuac Wildlife Refuge
GPS: N 29 33.573, W 94 32.266 (29.5596 -94.5378)
SPECIES: Speckled Trout
BEST BAITS: Super Spook or a One Knocker topwater
TIPS: Walking-the-dog: Speed it up, slow it down, pause, repeat… constantly changing your retrieve until you find what the fish like.
LOCATION: Galveston East Bay
HOTSPOT: Richard’s Reef
GPS: N 29 31.429, W 94 45.323 (29.5238 -94.7554)
SPECIES: Flounder
BEST BAITS: Mud minnows, shrimp
TIPS: Fish shore and shell ridge; dawn-afternoon.
LOCATION: Galveston Jetties
HOTSPOT: North Jetty
GPS: N 29 21.0045, W 94 43.0015 (29.3501 -94.7167)
SPECIES: Speckled Trout
BEST BAITS: Soft Plastics, Corkies or Topwaters
TIPS: The last 30 minutes of the day, any day, is the best time because most of the time that’s when the water is going to be the warmest.
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LOCATION: Galveston Trinity Bay
HOTSPOT: Levee Flats
GPS: N 29 26.0102, W 94 54.0052 (29.4335 -94.9001)
SPECIES: Black Drum
BEST BAITS: Fresh frozen crab or dead or live shrimp
TIPS: Drum run: Big time of the year, something that kids can catch on spring break.
LOCATION: Galveston Trinity Bay
HOTSPOT: Morgans Point
GPS: N 29 40.5089, W 94 58.861 (29.6752 -94.9810)
SPECIES: Speckled Trout
BEST BAITS: Corky
TIPS: Color does make a difference when fishing with a Corky. In dark waters, go with a dark colored bait, like an 808, or black/pink.
LOCATION: Galveston Trinity Bay
HOTSPOT: Spillway
GPS: N 29 45.223, W 94 48.857 (29.7537 -94.8143)
SPECIES: Speckled Trout
BEST BAITS: Live croaker, shrimp, soft plastics
TIPS: Watch for birds/slicks; dawn-midday, dusk.
BEST BAITS: 5-inch Bass Assassins
TIPS: Bait color selection: In clear water use a translucent bait; in off-color water use an opaque bait. With a dark bait the fish will see a shadow. A translucent bait in the sun provides reflection of the fish.
LOCATION: Galveston West Bay
HOTSPOT: Snake Island Cove
LOCATION: Galveston West Bay
HOTSPOT: Chocolate Bayou
GPS: N 29 11.621, W 95 9.948 (29.1937, -95.1658)
SPECIES: Flounder
BEST BAITS: Soft plastics, live bait
TIPS: DOA shrimp, Bass Assassin Sea Shad are good artificial choices, shrimp.
LOCATION: Galveston West Bay
HOTSPOT: Jamaica Beach
GPS: N 29 11.6808, W 94 58.6451 (29.1947, -94.9774)
SPECIES: Speckled trout
GPS: N 29 9.565, W 95 2.215 (29.1594, -95.0369)
SPECIES: Speckled Trout
BEST BAITS: Topwaters, soft plastics
TIPS: Fish topwaters early, use chartreuse/white plastics later, watch birds; avoid midday.
LOCATION: Matagorda East Bay
HOTSPOT: Boiler Bayou
GPS: N 28 38.4829, W 95 53.6479 (28.6414 -95.8941)
SPECIES: Speckled trout
BEST BAITS: Mirrolure 52
TIPS: Wade the shorelines looking for big trout. Some 11-pound fish have come out of East Bay.
LOCATION: Matagorda East Bay
HOTSPOT: Chinquapin Landing
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UPPER COAST
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GPS: N 28 44.957, W 95 46.034 (28.7493 -95.7672)
SPECIES: Flounder
BEST BAITS: Finger mullet, shrimp
TIPS: Anchor and work the bottom; dawn through morning.
LOCATION: Matagorda West Bay
HOTSPOT: Golds Bayou
GPS: N 28 35.328, W 96 2.286 (28.5888 -96.0381)
SPECIES: Redfish
BEST BAITS: Soft plastics
Extreme Measures for Trout PORT
O’CONNOR
Reported by CAPT. KIM GOULDEN
TIPS: Fish small plastics in a translucent color; early morning to noon.
SPRING IS IN THE AIR
and winter trout shing is loud and proud on the Texas coast. It felt as if summer would never end last year, and the new year hit us with a historic cold front that brought a 35+ degree air-temp drop and 40mph north winds within 12 hours.
SPECIES: Black Drum
BEST BAITS: Shrimp, crab TIPS: Fish live shrimp or crab.
LOCATION: Sabine Lake
HOTSPOT: Oyster Reef
LOCATION: Sabine Lake
HOTSPOT: Jetty
GPS: N 29 46.198, W 93 54.781 (29.7700 -93.9130)
GPS: N 29 39.247, W 93 49.899 (29.6541 -93.8317)
Fortunately, this is an extreme and not something we deal with o en. However, adapting to challenging conditions will be necessary to place your e orts in areas that are more likely to produce a quality trout bite.
If you’re targeting big trout, adjusting to the day’s conditions is critical for consistency. Two of the biggest challenges I face are wind direction changes during shing and wind speed.
Shi ing wind direction can turn the bite on or o . To manage this, I always keep in mind how the wind change is a ecting the bait source. Sometimes you can continue shing the same area and simply adjust your direction. If you stop catching sh and bait activity stops, you may have to move altogether.
Wind speed plays a big role in where I choose to sh. If I have zero wind, I might sh drop o s to deeper water or around a point. is can be a visual or submerged point. Water tends to naturally move around this structure absent of wind or tidal in uence. While it might be subtle, it may be just enough.
SPECIES: Speckled Trout
BEST BAITS: Soft Plastics with a 1/16 oz jig head
TIPS: The April trout bite in Sabine Lake will be the same as in the other locations along the coast. Key in on shell reefs. Birds and slicks are added pluses.
e wind is your friend because it moves water and creates areas of o -colored water. Trout are ambush predators and will use the dirty water for stealth. Deeper drop o s can be a solid plan on windy days. However, a good trout might just hunt a meal up shallow because it’s easier. I have found big trout in a foot of lthy water enough times to know it’s not an accident.
While we all have favorite areas to sh, adjusting your approach to those areas based on the current conditions can produce consistency. Always keep an eye out for the presence of bait and adjust the depth you’re shing before you leave an area you believe to be holding sh.
On the ipside, high wind speed can produce challenges, but more o en provides opportunity.
Springtime on the Texas coast is prime shing season for targeting a true trophy speckled trout. If that’s on your shortlist this year, I hope these tips help you land THE ONE. When you do, grab you a picture in the moment and enjoy watching her swim away knowing the next angler can have the same thrill and catch of a lifetime.
Not Out of the Woods UPPER LAGUNA MADRE
Reported by CAPT. RICHARD THOMPSON
WHO SAID WE ARE OUT of the cold months? We aren’t quite out of the woods yet, as we still have these late season cold fronts pushing through interrupting the Spring time transition, allowing us to stay on our winter time pa erns stalking trophy trout.
SAN ANTONIO BAY
One of the key strategies I focus on a er a northern rolls through is windward shorelines and or shallow water ats. If you have access to these areas this is probably my top recommendation when planning on staying focused on catching a good sh or even your PB. Upon arrival, I want to encourage you to be patient and wait until these big girls are going to eat, which will be during the Major and Minor feeding periods especially a er the front blows through. e payo to having patience will be rewarded.
During this time of year, anglers feel it’s necessary to slow their lure presentations down to a crawl in order to land these trophy trout. In my opinion this is only true when there is a drastic drop in temperature over a short period of time. However, once the temperature remains steady, the sh will acclimate to their new environment and continue to feast as usual. Your main focus should be not as much on presentation and speed but understanding where the sh are staged in the water column.
Here are a few lures that make it to my wading box this time of year. First, one of my favorite lures I use is a slow sinking plug like a Corky FatBoy, XL So -Dine, and last but not least, a Corky FatBoy Floater.
CAPT. RICHARD THOMPSON
MIDDLE COAST
Depending on where these sh are in the water column will determine how I adapt my type of Corky’s from a slow sinking to a oater. So let’s put this into a scenario. On our rst stop of the day, we were shing in an area where the sh were about waist deep, so the Corky FatBoy was my choice and did phenomenal. Once the area played out, we decided to move locations as the temperature warmed up a li le. We moved up onto the at where we were shing in a li le above knee deep water and at this time I changed to a Corky Floater to keep the lure out of the grass, allowing me to use a more aggressive retrieve which happened to entice several good bites.
Let’s ip the script for a moment. Much like the show, MythBusters, where one must use a Corky or a slow sinking plug to catch a trophy trout has been proven time and time again not to be true any longer. My wife, Krystal, is a solid big trout angler, and her go to lure is a dart bait ranging from Coastal Brew Baits to MirrOlure Lil Johns. But, the one thing that remains the same consistently is she always has her hot pink lead head from Salty Head that I am certain catches their a ention and creates a reaction strike. Besides my wife, some of the heavy hi ers on the Gulf Coast also stay with that selection of lure all winter long achieving the same outcomes.
To summarize, we are going to be transitioning into Spring time pa erns. e wind will start to be a prevailing SE wind and will be pushing the bait into or along these shorelines. ere are two types of anglers, one that ghts the wind and one that embraces it, understanding the environment in which it creates and utilizes it to their advantage. Be on a lookout as well on the di erent types of bait entering back in the bay system. Pay a ention to pelicans especially as they are typically on point following the in ux of the menhaden. In my opinion, this is where you are going to locate your Springtime trout as they are also keying into this underwater transition.
purchased. And of course, pick out some shoreline with abundant bait life.
We also have a big announcement, as we have opened our Laguna Shores Lodge in Corpus Christi which sits on the Upper Laguna Madre with very easy access to Ba n Bay. We are welcoming your Spring reservations as we will provide an all-inclusive custom coastal shing retreat. We look forward to seeing you.
Spring is in the Air
ROCKPORT
Reported by CAPT. JARED McCULLOCH
SPRING IS IN THE AIR WITH heavy winds and a late front or two. Get your gear in order and your boats serviced! It is time to start shing! With the spring rise in tide and heavy southeast winds to sustain it, the red sh will be plentiful and trout breeding. If you’re not excited, then I don’t know how to help you! For the wade shers it’s time to make sure all your hooks are sharp and replaced. Get new line and test the new brand of leader you just
Overcast and high wind days can help concentrate sh in smaller spots along a shoreline. A topwater is my favorite weapon of choice to gauge how active these sh are. As you get into April, remembering where loose rock or sca ered shell are will be helpful. Even old rocky shorelines can be the winners. Look for sow trout that have just nished pushing eggs out or is ge ing ready to. Keep a big spread of lures around, because you never know what will trigger that one bite.
For those that are planning to stay in the boat, keep it simple. Wind beaten shorelines and the windward side of reefs can prove just as plentiful. Keep a good mix of bait, keeping an eye out for what bait and where. is is the beginning of a pa ern that will change and move throughout the year as the water temps rise and the tide moves in and out, as the weather warms. Spring is the chance to nd that next area that just always seems to hold a couple good sh regardless of the pa erns.
TIPS: Fish topwaters before sunup, live bait deep later in the day; dawn through midday.
LOCATION: Copano Bay
HOTSPOT: Mission Bay Shell Reefs
GPS: N 28 8.223, W 97 9.159 (28.1371 -97.1527)
SPECIES: Flounder
BEST BAITS: Jigs, mud minnows
TIPS: Work top & edges of the reefs with shrimp-
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CAPT. JARED McCULLOCH
tipped jigs or live mud minnows; dawn through morning, dusk.
LOCATION: Corpus Christi Bay
HOTSPOT: Ingleside Cove
GPS: N 27 50.3179, W 97 13.816 (27.8386 -97.2303)
SPECIES: Redfish
BEST BAITS: Cut and live mullet
TIPS: Let the cut bait sit until a redfish decides to take it. Use a weight only to keep the live mullet out of the pocket.
LOCATION: Espirito Santo Bay
HOTSPOT: Blackberry Island Army Cut
GPS: N 28 24.145, W 96 28.731 (28.4024 -96.4789)
SPECIES: Flounder
BEST BAITS: Gold spoons, live bait
TIPS: Wade or anchor near southeast cut side; should be a good spot all day.
LOCATION: Mesquite Bay
HOTSPOT: Cedar Bayou Flats
GPS: N 28 7.0052, W 96 49.0053 (28.1168 -96.8168)
SPECIES: Redfish
BEST BAITS: Cut menhaden and cut perch head, dead shrimp
TIPS: Cedar Bayou provides a pretty good wade fishing spot. The redfish are starting to migrate back into the bays, and usually we will catch some good limits wading the surf at Cedar Bayou.
LOCATION: Port Aransas
HOTSPOT: Southeast Mud Island Shoreline
GPS: N 27 56.006, W 97 1.0041 (27.9334 -97.0167)
SPECIES: Black Drum
BEST BAITS: Cut menhaden and cut perch head, dead shrimp
TIPS: If you are looking for a meat haul, you can catch a whole lot of black drum off the reefs of San Antonio if the wind is low. You can catch trout also on the reefs.
LOCATION: Port O’Connor
HOTSPOT: New Half Moon Reef
GPS: N 28 33.7999, W 96 14.5309 (28.5633 -96.2422)
SPECIES: Speckled Trout
BEST BAITS: DOA Soft Plastics or Berkley Gulp
TIPS: The new Half Moon is close to the coordinates for the old Half Moon Reef.
LOCATION: San Antonio Bay
HOTSPOT: Panther Reef
GPS: N 28 13.0105, W 96 41.0139 (28.2168 -96.6836)
SPECIES: Redfish
BEST BAITS: Cut menhaden and cut perch head, dead shrimp
TIPS: March is for redfish fishing. If it’s a north wind, fish Matagorda Island, anywhere between Panther Island and Cedar Bayou.
LOCATION: Upper Laguna Madre
HOTSPOT: King Ranch Shoreline
GPS: N 27 29.134, W 97 21.1079 (27.4856 -97.3518)
SPECIES: Speckled trout
BEST BAITS: Sand Shad with a 1/8 oz. lead head
TIPS: Twenty miles of shoreline from the King Ranch to Baffin Bay - Run the shoreline till you find bait action. Some big trout come from this shoreline in early spring.
Ready for Anything BAFFIN BAY
Reported by CAPT. GERAD MERRITT
BAFFIN BAY IN MARCH AND April can be an exciting time, but it can also be a blowout as far as weather goes. In South Texas, Mother Nature can be unpredictable. An unanticipated cold front can roll in and turn plans upside down in no time.
Whether it’s wind, rain, colder-than-normal temperatures, or a combination of all three, this is planning season down here. We are still chasing trout, black drum, and red sh. We primarily use live shrimp this time of year, as croaker are usually scarce or too small. However, unforeseen events can happen in the live bait world.
I have my favorite spots, as most shermen do, but I try to have some hidden gems sca ered all over the bay. Regardless of where I’m shing, I do my best to nd a handful of rocks to check that are close together in order to maximize shing time. However, if I have trouble locating sh, I will bounce around to other spots that may not be in close proximity to each other. Since rock piles are where I typically sh during this season, I make a point to adjust my water depth based on the height and size of the rock piles.
It is extremely important to pay a ention to the tide in Ba n Bay as your shing date approaches. Since we still receive fronts in March and April, the tide can be unpredictable and heavily in uenced by a north wind. We’ve seen boat ramps become unusable due to a combination of normal tidal changes and a cold front.
shing when you locate a group of sh is imperative. is is key to understanding where the sh are comfortable and can lead to a productive trip.
should take into account that although the launches may be usable, the rock structures we sh may not be as accessible by boat. is means there is a higher risk of hi ing the rocks with your boat, and you will need to adjust your plan. ese are trying times for an inexperienced boater or angler to navigate Ba n Bay, as even seasoned guides may occasionally bump into a rock.
Ba n Bay may throw some curveballs our way as far as weather goes, but not much compares to shing this unique bay system. In general, being an angler can be a rollercoaster of ups and downs, but the memories made with friends and family make it all worthwhile.
MFor your safety on the water, it’s key to stay aware of the weather forecast and plan your shing trip accordingly. With that said, you
Dri ing the grass lines and ats also works during this time of year, especially if you are throwing plastics or live bait. However, I still prefer the rocks, as they tend to produce a greater variety of sh. If a sherman wants to stay o the rocks, the south shoreline and Alazan Bay both tend to hold quality sh. When shing a shelf or the ats in this area, you may need to adjust your depth based on water temperature. Monitoring water conditions such as depth, temperature, clarity, and the type of structure you’re
ARCH AND APRIL CAN bring great opportunities for both trophy hunting and meat hauling and lling up the icebox. For most of March I am either dri ing or wading. When shing the ats, in a empt to catch giant trophy, like speckled trout and hard pulling red sh, I like using arti cials like jigheads with your favorite so plastic lure such as a D.O.A. 4 inch jerk bait, and top water lures. When wade shing, we tend to pick the area apart alot more and sh it way slower, using a nesse style. While dri ing, we tend to move fast and hit it hard. We’re only going for the aggressive sh that are going to eat the rst or second time they see the lure as we move quickly over the potholes, weed edges and rock piles. If we have a good dri we think is successful enough to do again, we will spin the boat around and
CAPT. BRIAN BARERRA
CAPT. GERAD MERRITT
reset it at the same exact area we did the last one. We will adjust a li le bit if we need to in order to produce more sh.
When we’re not on the ats chasing specks and reds, I tend to hang out at the jetties and other near shore and inshore structures, such as bridge pilings, dock pilings, rock piles, riprap, and other sunken objects, for very good eating sheepshead. Depending on the depth of the water and other conditions, we use anywhere from a 1/8 to a 1 ounce jighead or your classic drop shot style rig with varying sizes of weights and live shrimp. March and into early April these sh are spawning and show up in very big numbers, making it easy for sherman of all skill sets.
Once we get into April, especially the backend of it, conditions start changing and the weather really starts to warm up. is is one of few months we have all year I call “transition months“ meaning the sh can be hard to nd and locate because some are still in their winter time pa erns. Some are already ge ing into their warmer weather pa erns. Once you nd them, the bite can be really good. We will be chasing big speckled trout and red sh and picking o the last few schools of sheepshead, and throwing top waters a er giant snook. is time of year I get back to shing as early as I can, ge ing out there at sunrise or before sunrise is even be er. rowing topwaters on a quiet early morning is something that is hard to beat.
BEST BAITS: Bone topwaters TIPS: Drift deeper potholes, wade the shallow sands; avoid midday, afternoon.
PORT MANSFIELD
PORT MANSFIELD, 140 MILES SOUTH OF CORPUS CHRISTI, IS RENOWNED FOR ITS world class fishing for speckled trout, redfish, flounder and other inshore species. The Mansfield Cut provides access to offshore fishing in the Gulf.
EAST TEXAS HOTSPOTS
Reported by TF&G STAFF
LOCATION: Lake Bob Sandlin
HOTSPOT: Monticello Cove
GPS: N 33 4.96, W 95 3.534 (33.0827, -95.0589)
SPECIES: Largemouth Bass
BEST BAITS: Kelly Wiggler soft plastics, shrimp
TIPS: Kelly Wiggler soft plastics are a good choice here or go with live shrimp; afternoon.
LOCATION: Brandy Branch Reservoir
HOTSPOT: Island
GPS: N 32 32, W 94 29.233 (32.5333, -94.4872)
LOWER COAST
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LOCATION: Baffin Bay
HOTSPOT: Center Reef
GPS: N 27 16.206, W 97 34.362 (27.2701 -97.5727)
SPECIES: Speckled Trout
BEST BAITS: Shrimp
TIPS: Drift through the reef with shrimp (use caution, circle wide); dawn through midday.
LOCATION: Baffin Bay
HOTSPOT: Penascal Rincon
GPS: N 27 16.018, W 97 25.444 (27.2670 -97.4241)
SPECIES: Redfish
BEST BAITS: Topwaters, plastics, shrimp
TIPS: Drift shallows with shrimp under cork or
SPECIES: Crappie
BEST BAITS: Minnows, jigs
TIPS: Fish the perimeter of the island until you find the right depth; dawn, dusk.
LOCATION: Caddo Lake
HOTSPOT: Ames Basin and Clinton Lake areas
GPS: N 32 42.6059, W 94 5.214 (32.7101, -94.0869)
SPECIES: Largemouth Bass
BEST BAITS: Black colored frogs, Texas-rigged Worms in colors of black/blue or Junebug
TIPS: The spawn will be in full gear in late March, early April. Throw black colored frogs over the shallow vegetation and around the base of the cypress trees in 1-3 feet of water. Pitching large Texas-rigged worms in 3-5 feet of water around the base of the cypress trees is also a good choice for April. Worm colors of black/blue or Junebug with a 3/8 to 1/2 oz weight are good choices for Caddo Lake.
LOCATION: Lake Conroe
HOTSPOT: Harbor Town Cove
GPS: N 30 24.65, W 95 34.491 (30.4108, -95.5749)
SPECIES: Crappie
BEST BAITS: Minnows, jigs
TIPS: Work vertically in brush with minnows or green/red jigs; should produce action all day.
LOCATION: Lake Jim Chapman (Cooper)
HOTSPOT: River Channel #5
GPS: N 33 18.304 , W 95 46.073 (33.3051, -95.7679)
SPECIES: Crappie
BEST BAITS: Live minnows, jigs
TIPS: Work along the channel edges with live minnows or white/chartreuse jigs. Action is good all day.
LOCATION: Lake Fork
HOTSPOT: Brier Branch
throw topwaters or soft plastics; dawn-midday.
LOCATION: Lower Laguna Madre
HOTSPOT: Queen Isabella Causeway
GPS: N 26 5.206, W 11 0.039 (26.0868 -11.0007)
SPECIES: Sheepshead
BEST BAITS: Live Shrimp, fresh shrimp.
TIPS: Free line shrimp around the pilings. Spinning tackle helps make the finesse casts needed to get a small bait close to the structure. Braided line is best for light bites.
LOCATION: Lower Laguna Madre
HOTSPOT: South Bay
GPS: N 26 2.961, W 97 11.031 (26.0494 -97.1839)
SPECIES: Black Drum
BEST BAITS: Live Shrimp, fresh shrimp, Gulp! Shrimp in New Penny, Root Beer/Glitter.
TIPS: Fish the channel edges on bottom to intercept feeding drum. Fresh or live shrimp are bets. Use stout tackle; there are some big drum out there.
LOCATION: Middle Ground
HOTSPOT: Lost Cut
HOTSPOTLIGHT
CURRENT LAKE LEVELS
EAST TEXAS
LAKE CAPACITY CURRENT %
As of 1/30/2025 AC. FT. AC. FT. FULL
Addicks 7,900 438 6%
B A Steinhagen 69,186 62,633 91%
Barker 43,856 43,856 100%
Bob Sandlin 192,417 191,618 100%
Caddo 866,694 518,421 60%
Conroe 417,577 413,808 99%
Crook 9,195 9,195 100%
Cypress Springs 66,756 66,756 100%
Fork 605,061 565,173 93%
Houston 132,318 132,318 100%
Houston County 17,113 17,113 100%
Jacksonville 25,670 25,670 100%
Jim Chapman 258,723 201,818 78%
Lake O’ the Pines 241,363 241,363 100%
Livingston 1,603,504 1,603,504 100%
Monticello 34,740 29,521 85%
Murvaul 38,285 38,285 100%
Nacogdoches 39,522 39,499 100%
Palestine 367,303 367,303 100%
Pat Mayse 113,683 105,129 93%
Sam Rayburn 2,857,077 2,857,077 100%
Striker 16,878 16,063 95%
Sulphur Springs 17,747 17,747 100%
Toledo Bend 1,243,801 1,176,456 95%
Wright Patman 122,593 122,593 100%
GPS: N 32 56.658, W 95 38.329 (32.9443, -95.6388)
SPECIES: Largemouth Bass
BEST BAITS: Lipless crankbaits
TIPS: Spawning area… work the shallows with a red lipless crankbait; dawn through dusk.
GPS: N 27 6.901, W 97 26.682 (27.1150 -97.4447)
SPECIES: Flounder
BEST BAITS: Mud minnow, shrimp
TIPS: Freeline live mud minnows or shrimp with split shot; this spot should be good all day.
LOCATION: Port Mansfield
HOTSPOT: Green Island
GPS: N 26 30.0049, W 97 24.0035 (26.5001 -97.4001)
SPECIES: Speckled Trout
BEST BAITS: Spook Junior
TIPS: Fish the Spook Jr. with a slow walk-the-dog, extended pause retrieve, maybe four or five walks, and then an extended pause, then walk it again.
Don’t keep it moving all the time.
LAKE CONROE
SURFACE AREA: 20,118 acres
1973 LAKE CONROE IS PRIMARILY OPEN water in its lower two-thirds with some standing timber along the San Jacinto River channel in the upper section of the lake.
Largemouth bass, catfish and white/hybrid striped bass are the prime gamefish. Artificial habitat has been installed around the lake (See this symbol... ...on the map).
EAST TEXAS
CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE
LOCATION: Lake Houston
HOTSPOT: Golf Course
GPS: N 30 2.432, W 95 9.292 (30.0405, -95.1549)
SPECIES: White Bass
BEST BAITS: Jigs, shiners, spoons
TIPS: Fish jigs or troll 300 feet off the shoreline with shiners or spoons.
LOCATION: Lake Livingston
HOTSPOT: Banana Hump
GPS: N 30 39.193, W 95 4.358 (30.6532, -95.0726)
SPECIES: Hybrid Striped Bass
BEST BAITS: Jigs, shad
TIPS: Fish yellow jigs or live shad off the bottom; dawn through dusk.
LOCATION: Lake Murvaul
HOTSPOT: Spawn Gut
GPS: N 32 1.965, W 94 27.069
CENTRAL TEXAS HOTSPOTS
Reported by TF&G STAFF
LOCATION: Lake Austin
HOTSPOT: River Bend
GPS: N 30 19.844, W 97 56.041 (30.3307, -97.9340)
SPECIES: Largemouth Bass
BEST BAITS: Topwaters TIPS: Topwaters work best; morning, dusk.
LOCATION: Bachman Lake
HOTSPOT: Bridge
GPS: N 32 51.576, W 96 51.378 (32.8596, -96.8563)
SPECIES: Crappie
BEST BAITS: 1/16th jig in white and chartreuse or black and chartreuse under a 2-inch pegged bobber TIPS: Under the bridge, are all sorts of trees stuck on the pylons. They are sitting anywhere from 5 to 6 foot of water some a bit shallower. The Whataburger side, West, right up against the bank is anywhere from 6 to 9 foot. The east side of the bridge is 2 to 4 feet. So, standing on the west side is best. Under the bridge behind Whataburger is good all day, but nighttime from 8 pm-4 am is killer with a 1/16-oz. jighead white and chartreuse or black and chartreuse, under a 2-inch pegged bobber, but replace the peg with a glow stick.
(32.0328, -94.4512)
SPECIES: Largemouth Bass
BEST BAITS: Jigs, plastics
TIPS: Fish hydrilla beds and lily pads. Best action at dawn and at dusk.
LOCATION: Lake O the Pines
HOTSPOT: Brushy Creek
GPS: N 32 44.639, W 94 32.744 (32.7440, -94.5457)
SPECIES: Largemouth Bass
TIPS: Sight cast for spawners, flip cottontails; dawn, morning, dusk.
LOCATION: Lake Nacogdoches
HOTSPOT: Hydrilla Beds
GPS: N 31 37.605, W 94 48.463 (31.6268, -94.8077)
SPECIES: Largemouth Bass
BEST BAITS: Buzzbaits, frogs
LOCATION: Lake Belton
HOTSPOT: Cowhouse Creek Arm
GPS: N 31 8.7899, W 97 32.088 (31.1465, -97.5348)
SPECIES: White Bass and Hybrids
BEST BAITS: Storm Thin Fin in Silver Shad color or a 2.75” Storm Smash Shad in Rainbow Smelt color
TIPS: Focus on the middle section of the Cowhouse Creek arm, near the old creek channel. Watch sonar closely for suspended pods of fish and fish the Storm Thin Fin on a downrigger if the fish are deep, or fish a Smash Shad on a flat line if the fish are within 12 feet of the surface.
LOCATION: Lake Buchanan
BEST BAITS: Crankbaits, jerk baits
TIPS: Fish a Texas shad crankbait or jerk baits. With jerk baits, vary your retrieve speed, pause and jerk. Morning through midday.
LOCATION: Lake Sam Rayburn
HOTSPOT: Coleman Creek
GPS: N 31 08.921, W 94 09.938 (31.1487, -94.1656)
SPECIES: Crappie
BEST BAITS: Roadrunners, minnows
TIPS: Work 4- to 6-feet of water with white/chartreuse Roadrunners or live minnows. Dawn to late morning, dusk and night.
LOCATION: Toledo Bend
HOTSPOT: Upper End of Main Lake
GPS: N 30 50.0579, W 98 22.656 (30.8343, -98.3776)
SPECIES: Striped Bass
BEST BAITS: Live shad, Magnum Zara and Pencil Poppers for topwater action.
TIPS: Fish the humps off of the river channel. Also, fish along the tree lines. Stripers will be in the shallows and can be caught early morning and late evening on top water baits.
LOCATION: Cedar Creek Lake
HOTSPOT: Main Lake Creeks
GPS: N 32 13.098, W 96 3.6719 (32.2183, -96.0612)
SPECIES: Largemouth Bass
BEST BAITS: Spinnerbaits and plastics
TIPS: Fish the back 1/3 of all the spawning creeks with spinnerbaits and plastics. You should find fish in most all of these areas.
LOCATION: Coleto Creek Lake
HOTSPOT: Main Lake
GPS: N 28 43.86, W 97 9.972 (28.7310, -97.1662)
SPECIES: Largemouth Bass
BEST BAITS: Spinnerbaits in white with small Colorado blades (brass blades), jig and craw combo
TIPS: Don’t kid yourself about Coleto being a smaller lake. It’s still a southern lake and it has a lot of larger bass. This means the bigger the bait the bigger
HOTSPOT: House Bay/Community Hole
GPS: N 31 17.836, W 93 41.392 (31.2973, -93.6899)
SPECIES: Crappie
BEST BAITS: Minnows, jigs
TIPS: Fish live minnows or jigs. Jig vertically from boat until you find fish; dawn, morning, dusk, night.
LOCATION: Lake Wright Patman
HOTSPOT: Doughnut Hole
GPS: N 33 14.553, W 94 13.794 (33.2426, -94.2299)
SPECIES: Crappie
BEST BAITS: Live minnows, jigs
TIPS: Fish live minnows or white/chartreuse jigs, working the brush. Action is good all day.
ADDITIONAL REPORTING BY:
Dave Cox: www.PalmettoGuideService.com
Richard Tatsch: www.FishDudeTX.com
the fish. So don’t be afraid to throw as big of a bait as you have in your box. Slow roll your spinnerbait outside of grass and hang on!
LOCATION: Eagle Mountain Lake
HOTSPOT: Ridge South of Pelican Island
GPS: N 32 53.998, W 97 30.454 (32.9000, -97.5076)
SPECIES: White Bass
BEST BAITS: Slabs with a fly 12-inch above tail spinner or swim bait when they are surfacing or chasing shad.
TIPS: This area is a shallow sunken Island. This sunken Island is 6 to 9 feet deep. This time of the year many times the white bass will chase shad along the edge of this island. If the fish are surfacing throw a tail spinner or a bright swim bait like a hot spot. If they are still in the area but not surfacing. Run along the edge of this sunken island using your electronics. When you find them A slab and a fly will work well.
LOCATION: Fayette County
HOTSPOT: Intake Corner
GPS: N 29 55.2779, W 96 44.8379 (29.9213, -96.7473)
SPECIES: Catfish
BEST BAITS: Stink bait, worms
TIPS: Fish are eating Algae and bait fish along the rocks and are also spawning there. Fish rocks and cattails along intake. The best times to fish are dawn to mid-morning.
HOTSPOTLIGHT
LAKE LIMESTONE
SURFACE AREA: 12,553 acres
MAXIMUM DEPTH: 43 feet IMPOUNDED: 1978
LAKE LIMESTONE OFFERS SOME OF the best fishing in the central region of Texas. An abundance of aquatic
vegetation, standing timber and a large number of piers and docks provide plenty of cover for largemouth, catfish, crappie and white bass. Habitat structures have been installed near the Leon County Park. (See this symbol... ...on the map).
CENTRAL TEXAS
LOCATION: Granger Lake
HOTSPOT: Creeks, sloughs, and coves
GPS: N 30 40.602, W 97 21.78 (30.6767, -97.3630)
SPECIES: Crappie
BEST BAITS: Bass Assassin, Marabou jigs
TIPS: As the days start warming, the crappie move into the shallow coves and spawning areas. Use 10-foot jig poles with a jig and slip bobber. Set the bobber stop at 12 to 16 inches. Work the baits close to the banks in areas of very thick cover.
LOCATION: Lake Joe Pool
HOTSPOT: Roadbed #2
GPS: N 32 38.293, W 97 00.673 (32.6382, -97.0112)
SPECIES: Largemouth
BEST BAITS: Soft plastics
TIPS: Drop shot black worms or lizards. Great spawning area. Avoid midday.
LOCATION: Lake Lavon
HOTSPOT: Humps Between the Power Plant and Dam
GPS: N 33 2.676, W 96 28.266 (33.0446, -96.4711)
SPECIES: White Bass
BEST BAITS: Small Flukes in Pearl White, chartreuse, and silver/black
TIPS: The main school will be located in 18 to 26 feet of water near the dam or somewhere around the main island. Also check the humps in between the
dam and the powerhouse. Dead sticking small flukes right off the bottom.
LOCATION: Lake LBJ
HOTSPOT: Wirtz Dam
GPS: N 30 33.178, W 98 20.291 (30.5530, -98.3382)
SPECIES: Crappie
BEST BAITS: Minnows
TIPS: Float rigged minnows, around rocks along the dam and in shallows; dawn through morning.
LOCATION: Lake Lewisville
HOTSPOT: Hickory Creek Arm
GPS: N 33 7.45, W 97 4.81 (33.1242, -97.0802)
SPECIES: Largemouth Bass
BEST BAITS: Spinnerbaits, plastics
TIPS: Dark spinnerbaits, plastics, Work points, guts, and island brush with dark spinnerbaits or soft plastics; avoid midday.
LOCATION: Lake Palestine
HOTSPOT: Kickapoo Creek and Chimney Creek Cove
GPS: N 32 4.9379, W 95 24.942 (32.0823, -95.4157)
SPECIES: Largemouth Bass
BEST BAITS: Best lure will be fishing shallow with a black/brown Amber Big Eye Jig, a Shimmy Shaker and the Mr. Twister Comida worm.
TIPS: Fishing should be very good in both the north end in Kickapoo Creek and down south in the Chimney Creek cove. Fish the shallow pockets in your creeks and fish very slow.
CURRENT LAKE LEVELS CENTRAL TEXAS
LOCATION: Lake Ray Hubbard
HOTSPOT: 66 Cattails
GPS: N 32 53.537, W 96 32.852 (32.8923, -96.5475) SPECIES: Crappie
BAITS: Jigs
Use a long rod and jig cattails with 1/8 oz.
colored jigs; all day
LOCATION: Lake Ray Roberts
South End
N 33 21.5069, W 97 4.2175
(33.3584, -97.0703)
SPECIES: Largemouth Bass
BEST BAITS: Buzzbaits, crankbaits
TIPS: Spawning fish will be on the South End of the lake. The fish on the north end of the lake will start to guard fry. A white buzzbait worked along the grass edges and secondary points in the Northern creeks is a great way to start the day. Squarebill cranks and weightless flukes and Watermelon flukes and shad-colored crankbaits usually fair well. Fish will be starting to relate to the humps and main lake points.
LOCATION: Lake Richland Chambers
HOTSPOT: 309 Flats
GPS: N 32 2.136, W 96 12.6005 (32.0356, -96.2100)
SPECIES: Hybrid Stripers and White Bass
BEST BAITS: 1 oz. Silver Glitter RSR Shad slabs
TIPS: Watch for the gulls and pelicans dipping down to pick up shad off the surface. Concentrate on drop-offs and ridges in the 309 Flats Area in water depths ranging from 20-30 feet. Bounce the slab off the bottom and when the strike occurs, HOLD ON! It might be a BIG Ol’ Hybrid!
LOCATION: Lake Somerville
HOTSPOT: Yegua creek channel
GPS: N 30 18.1499, W 96 39.204 (30.3025, -96.6534)
SPECIES: Catfish
BEST BAITS: Shad or CJ’s punch bait
TIPS: Water is warming, and it warms faster in shallow areas here. There is a slight drop off in the middle of this area. Spread chum and cast several lines out with tight lines here.
LOCATION: Stillhouse Hollow Res.
HOTSPOT: Red Roof Point
GPS: N 31 2.02, W 97 34.391 (31.0337, -97.5732)
SPECIES: Largemouth Bass
BEST BAITS: Jigs, spinnerbaits
TIPS: Fish the timber in the channel with black/blue jigs, white spinnerbaits; dawn through dusk.
LOCATION: Lake Tawakoni
HOTSPOT: Oak Cove Bridge
GPS: N 32 54.063, W 95 56.369 (32.9011, -95.9395)
SPECIES: Crappie
BEST BAITS: Minnows, jigs
TIPS: Work the bridge pilings and brush with live minnows or 1/8 oz. jigs; dawn through midday, dusk.
LOCATION: Lake Texana
HOTSPOT: Mouth of Jungle
GPS: N 29 1.478, W 96 34.639 (29.0246, -96.5773)
SPECIES: Largemouth Bass
BEST BAITS: Spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, soft plastics
TIPS: Fish spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, or soft plastics on Carolina rig; good spot all day.
LOCATION: Lake Texoma
HOTSPOT: Coffer Dam
GPS: N 33 50.541, W 96 34.734 (33.8424, -96.5789)
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
CENTRAL TEXAS
CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE
SPECIES: Striped Bass
BEST BAITS: Shad
TIPS: Fish live shad on downriggers, or drift live bait on Carolina rigs; dawn, morning, dusk.
LOCATION: Lake Waco
HOTSPOT: Point N of Ridgewood Marina
GPS: N 31 32.091, W 97 13.531 (31.5349, -97.2255)
SPECIES: Crappie
BEST BAITS: Minnows
TIPS: Live minnows under cork, use electronics for brush; morning, afternoon
LOCATION: Lake Whitney
HOTSPOT: The Hump
GPS: N 31 54.672, W 97 20.868
WEST TEXAS HOTSPOTS
Reported by TJ RANFT
CONTACT TJ RANFT:
Email: TJRanft17@gmail.com
Online: RanftGuideService.com
LOCATION: Lake Alan Henry
HOTSPOT: Cove off Brazos
GPS: N 33 1.836, W 101 7.475 (33.0306, -101.1246)
SPECIES: Largemouth Bass
BEST BAITS: Crankbaits, worms
TIPS: Fish Texas rigged soft plastic worms or crankbaits; early morning.
(31.9112, -97.3478)
comes up, back off and anchor in 30 feet. Fish live shad suspended off the bottom. Make long casts to the hump with live shad, or free line them on a Carolina rig..
SPECIES: White Bass and Striped Bass
BEST BAITS: Chartreuse Stripaholic jig heads and swimbaits from RSR Lures and live gizzard shad.
TIPS: Use swim baits early and cast out on the hump and retrieve back with a medium to fast retrieve to catch stripers as they move up on the hump to gorge on spawning shad. After the sun
LOCATION: Lake Arrowhead
HOTSPOT: Lake Arrowhead State Park Piers
GPS: N 33 45.298, W 98 23.08 (33.7550, -98.3847)
SPECIES: Crappie
BEST BAITS: Minnows
TIPS: Fish minnows on bobber 1-2 feet off the bottom near brush; dawn-morning, dusk.
LOCATION: Lake Cisco
HOTSPOT: Main Lake
GPS: N 32 26.7579, W 98 59.0834 (32.4460, -98.9847)
SPECIES: Largemouth Bass
BEST BAITS: Soft plastics, spinnerbaits, crankbaits
TIPS: Cisco has a variety of fishable habitat features such as submersed boulders, fallen timber, aquatic vegetation, and docks. Texas-rigged soft plastics, spinner baits, and crankbaits should produce a bite. Watermelon, chartreuse, and brighter colors are great colors for soft plastics.
LOCATION: Lake Granbury
HOTSPOT: River Near Tin Top
GPS: N 32 34.559, W 97 49.295 (32 34.559, -97 49.295)
SPECIES: Crappie
BEST BAITS: Small jigs with soft plastics in Electric Chicken and Chartreuse colors worked near structure near banks/docks
TIPS: Swim or bounce your jigs across the bottom. Work the bends in the river and look for fish either in the deeper holes and when active on top of flats adjacent to the deeper water. Crappie will be
ADDITIONAL REPORTING BY:
Bill Carey: www.StriperExpress.com
Carey Thorn: whitebassfishingTexas@gmail.com
Royce Simmons: www.GoneFishin.biz
Weldon Kirk: www.FishTales-GuideService.com
Randy Routh: 817-822-5539
spawning most creeks and sloughs all over the lake and in the river. Granbury water temperatures are rebounding into the 60’s. Spring patterns are in full force. Wintering Birds are still in place and are pointing anglers to active feeding fish from the dam to the river above Granbury. Passing cool fronts/storm fronts continue to dominate the weather pattern.
LOCATION: Possum Kingdom Lake
HOTSPOT: Mid Lake
GPS: N 32 52.223 W 98 31.747 (32.870385, -98.529114)
SPECIES: Striped Bass
BEST BAITS: Live shad, swim jigs, spoons
TIPS: Stripers are in their spring pattern and feeding heavy water temps are in the 60s. The stripers are moving around looking for their next meal. There’s still a few birds around so keep an eye out for them. If the birds are there the fish will be close by and feeding. Live shad is the best bait, but some can be caught using swim jigs and small spoons, cast into the birds. Don’t be afraid to move around and look for the fish if you can’t find birds. Once you find some fish, stick with them and follow them till your done fishing. Good live bait will make or break your trip. Catch your bait fresh and take extra good care of it and it will catch fish.
LOCATION: Possum Kingdom
HOTSPOT: Peanut Patch
GPS: N 32 53.376, W 98 29.440 (32.8896, -98.490667)
SPECIES: Striped Bass & White Bass, Hybrids
BEST BAITS: RatLTraps, crankbaits
TIPS: Look for fish to be stacked on the 20- or
CURRENT LAKE LEVELS WEST TEXAS
LAKE CAPACITY CURRENT %
As of 1/30/2025
Abilene 7,900 438 6%
Alan Henry 96,207 94,346 98%
Amistad 96,207 94,346 98%
Amon G Carter 19,266 19,266 100%
Arrowhead 230,359 156,982 68%
Brady Creek 28,808 9,874 34%
Bridgeport 372,183 272,296 73%
Brownwood 130,868 129,427 99%
Champion Creek 41,580 20,044 48%
Cherokee 40,094 40,094 100%
Cisco 29,003 16,913 58%
Coleman 38,075 37,390 98%
Colorado City 30,758 22,391 73%
E V Spence 517,272 86,641 17% Elephant Butte 185,087 146,159 79% Falcon 1,985,900 229,373 12% Fort Phantom Hill 70,030 46,063 66% Graham 45,288 43,403 96% Granbury 132,949 132,704 100% Greenbelt 59,968 5,441 9% Hords
30-foot breaklines. Watch the birds—they are still here. If you see any floodwaters coming in, get closer to the mouth of the Brazos or Cedar Creek. If there is water flowing, fish will head to it.
ADDITIONAL REPORTING BY:
Michael W. Acosta: Unfair Advantage Charters 254-396-4855
LAKE GRANBURY
1,000 docks and piers provide excellent cover for bass. TPWD and local partners have placed artificial fish attractors throughout the lake (see this symbol... ...on the map).
Tides and Prime Times
The following pages contain TIDE and SOLUNAR predictions for our Base Point, Galveston Channel (N 29.317, W 94.88)
Tidal movement and daily phases of the moon have varying degrees of influence on many fish and game species. AM & PM MINOR phases occur when the moon rises and sets. These phases last 1 to 2 hours.
AM & PM MAJOR phases occur when the moon reaches its highest point overhead as well as when it is “underfoot” or at its highest point on the exact opposite side of the earth from your positoin (or literally under your feet). Most days have two Major Feeding Phases, each lasting about 2 hours.
PEAK TIMES: Our Forecast Calendar uses both Tide and SoLunar projections to predict the best fishing times and days. Generally, if a SoLunar Period (Major/Minor) falls within an hour of sunrise or sunset, fishing conditions should be better. On certain days where Tidal Activity is stronger, the best fishing times may fall ouside the normal SoLunar range. While tides are not a direct factor in FRESHWATER FISHING, SoLunar Activity still accounts for increased feeding activity in freshwater species. It is also a prime factor in the movement and feeding habits of game species.
TIDE CONVERSION TABLE
Sportsman’s DAYBOOK
MARCH/APRIL 2025
USING THE PRIME TIMES CALENDAR
TIDE PREDICTIONS are located in the White Area at the top of the Calendar Pages. You can use the CONVERSION TABLE below to make adjustments. It is keyed to 23 other tide stations along the Texas Coast (see these map icons: T1 ). Adjust low and high tide times, plus or minus in minutes, from the times given for the Base Point at Galveston Channel.
SOLUNAR ACTIVITY is shown in the Green Boxes on the Calendar pages. Moon Overhead and Underfoot times are given in the SoLunar Box and illustrated on the Fishing Graph.
Use the SOLUNAR ADJUSTMENT SCALE on the map below to adjust times for points East and West of our Base Point at Galveston Channel.
Moonrise: 5:43a Set: 6:57p AM Minor: 4:23a AM Major: 10:36a
PM Minor: 4:49p
PM Major: 11:02p
Moon Overhead: 12:15p
Moon Underfoot: None
Moonrise: 10:56a Set: 12:46a
GIVE US YOUR BEST SHOT!
SEND YOUR ACTION PHOTOS TO Photos@FishGame.com For best results, send HIGH quality JPEG digital files.
REDFISH
Galveston
Harrison Brown with one of many nice redfish caught in Galveston Bay while fishing with Capt. Derek York of Spot Stalker Guide Service.
MIXED STRINGER
Port O’Connor
No guarantee can be made as to when, or if, a submitted photo will be published.
AXIS DEER
Kendall County
Seventeen-year-old MiKinley Schmidt with her first axis, shot while hunting in Kendall County.
Kyle Harris and a few friends with a healthy haul from a wade with Captain Kim Goulden out of Port O’Connor.
REDFISH
Galveston
Daniel Muniz with a great midday catch of a redfish on lower Galveston Bay last fall.
SNOOK
Brownsville
Alan Voigt landed this 30-inch snook on a DOA shrimp while fishing with his sister and guide Brian Barrera in the Brownsville Ship Channel.
:: by REAVIS Z. WORTHAM
TF&G Humor Editor
Hotter’n Blazes
IT WASN’T A BIG FIRE, REALLY.
Well, I guess that depends on what you call big.
re pit to stay warm.
Open SEASON
It started out small, and wasn’t my fault, no ma er what one individual might say.
All we wanted to do was fry some cat sh we’d caught that a ernoon. I’d considered cooking it like we used to do when I was a kid by dumping some lard in an old wash pot propped on three bricks with a real wood re under it, but that seemed like too much trouble.
Wrong Willie suggested we use a propane fryer, so we dug it out of the shop where it’d been si ing in the box for a year. While he carried the lightweight burner, I toted the ve-gallon propane tank to the side porch of the cabin, and we set it up a few feet away from the house.
Good thing, too, but in hindsight, we could have put it a li le farther away.
It was a damp, cool night, so we built a cedar re in the nearby pit and Constable Rick and his dista arrived to join us. As it usually shakes out, the War Department and the girls were in the kitchen, laughing loud and long each time they looked out the window at us cooking in a light drizzle.
In response, we threw more wood on the
But that’s not the one that gave us trouble. pieces of cedar we dropped onto the coals
But that’s not the one that gave us trouble. e re pit behaved itself, containing the pieces of cedar we dropped onto the coals from time to time.
down again and dropped in another single piece of potato.
I lit the burner on the fryer and put on
I lit the burner on the fryer and put on the accompanying pot full of peanut oil that rivaled the cost of my rst car. Now I’ve been cooking over outside res all my life and have a system down that served well. As the oil heated to the right temperature, I dropped in a French fry that sizzled and turned golden brown.
Being a good host, I li ed out the basket and o ered it to the other two guys, who were deep in conversation and declined. So I ate it.
Pronouncing it good, I felt the ame under the pot of oil seemed high, so I turned it down and went inside to get the rest of the fries and the cat sh lets. When I returned, the ame still looked high, so I turned it
at one cooked way too fast. I squa ed down to check the ame and turned down the regulator once again, making sure I was twisting the dial in the correct direction, but now we had an issue, the burner didn’t respond.
I tried to turn it o , but to no avail.
Twisting the valve on the tank, I shut the whole thing o . e grease was too hot and when I li ed the basket, the oil sparked and the next thing I knew, it was on
and the next thing I knew, it was on re.
Still kneeling, I frowned in thought at the same time Constable Rick glanced over and saw ames that were higher than what was in the re pit. Now this boy’s seen a lot through the years, working for various law enforcement agencies, but his eyes widened at the sight of a ve gallons of burning oil.
Still kneeling, I frowned in thought at the same time Constable Rick glanced over and saw ames what was in the re pit. lot through the years, for law enforcement agencies, eyes widened at gallons of burnobservation at the same time.
Willie o ered an observation at the same time.
“Hey, that’s on re.”
“What was your rst clue?”
“Hey, that’s on re.” your rst clue?”
In response, the three of us gathered around the ames to eval-
uate the issue.
Constable Rick o ered a suggestion.
“Turn o the propane.”
“Did.”
Li le Brother scratched his cheek. “We need to put that out.”
need to put that out.”
A trained investigator, Constable Rick had questions. “How’d you catch it on re?”
“Well, it wasn’t on purpose, and I didn’t
catch it on fire. The regulator’s bad.”
Open SEASON
“Flour.” Willie held up a finger. “I always heard you can use flour to smother a fire.”
“I don’t think that’ll work,” Constable Rick said.
Willie ran inside and came out with the flour cannister and threw a handful on the flames. They leaped higher and some of the oil splashed out on the wet grass.
I backed away, judging the distance from the cabin. The recent rains saved us. “That didn’t work.”
Willie studied the growing crisis. “Baking soda.”
I shook my head as he ran back inside. “If we throw that on the flour, we’ll have a giant biscuit.”
He returned, followed by the girls, and administered baking soda.
“I told you so.” I heard Johnny Cash in my head singing, “…and the flames went higher.”
Glad the conflagration was away from
the house, the girls stampeded back inside as we studied on it some more.
Constable Rick pulled up a chair. “We need to snuff it out.”
“Can’t put a lid on it with that glowing red basket handle sticking out,” I said. “And besides, we don’t have a lid.”
Wrong Willie wouldn’t give up. “How about a piece of sheet iron?”
That seemed like a fairly good idea, but it wasn’t, because the corrugated metal allowed too much oxygen to reach the oil. Now we had the additional excitement of a large square of extremely hot tin and the odor of burned biscuits and superheated galvanized metal as flames shot out of both ends of the makeshift lid.
I recalled an incident from forty years earlier. “I was in a canoe with my old college buddy, Landon, when our Coleman lantern caught fire.”
“Why’d you have a lantern in a canoe?”
I ignored Willie’s question. “So I used an oar to hook the bail on the gas lantern and
lowered it into the water. Went right out.”
“There’s no bail.” Constable Rick sighed. “And the handle’s too hot and too close to the fire.”
“It’s a good story, though,” I said, and we retreated to let the fire burn itself out.
All was not lost, though.
I had a second burner in the shop, and we fried the fish in a deep cast iron Dutch oven. This time the regulator worked, there was a lid to snuff it out if anything got out of hand a second time, and the filets and the perquisite hush puppies and fresh cut fries came out a golden brown.
The grease fire finally burned out four hours later, and we trashed the whole thing.
Thinking back, it would probably have been better to fry it all the old school way, by dumping some lard in an old wash pot propped on three bricks with a real wood fire under it.
