Spring in East Texas brings warmer temperatures, blooming landscapes, and some of the best fishing conditions of the year. Whether you’re looking for largemouth bass, catfish, or crappie, this region offers a variety of prime fishing locations. In this guide, we’ll highlight the top spots for spring fishing, what makes each location unique, and provide tips to make your trip successful.
1. Lake Fork
Lake Fork is renowned as one of the best bass fishing lakes in the country, and springtime is the perfect season to cast your line. This 27,000-acre lake is famous for producing record-breaking largemouth bass.
Why It’s Great in Spring:
- The warming water temperatures encourage bass to move into shallow areas for spawning.
- Well-managed fish populations ensure a healthy supply of trophy-sized bass.
- Multiple public boat ramps and fishing piers provide easy access.
Spring Fishing Tips:
- Use soft plastic lures, jigs, or spinnerbaits to attract pre-spawn bass.
- Fish near submerged structures and shallow coves for the best chances of a bite.
2. Sam Rayburn Reservoir
This massive reservoir, covering over 114,000 acres, is a paradise for bass and crappie anglers. Spring fishing here is particularly rewarding as fish move into shallower waters to spawn.
Why It’s Great in Spring:
- One of the top locations in Texas for tournament bass fishing.
- Crappie fishing is excellent, with large schools moving to brush piles and docks.
- Plenty of access points, including marinas and boat ramps.
Spring Fishing Tips:
- Target crappie with live minnows or small jigs near submerged structures.
- Bass are often found along grass lines and shallow points—try using topwater lures in the early morning.
3. Caddo Lake
Caddo Lake is one of the most scenic fishing destinations in Texas, featuring cypress trees draped with Spanish moss. This lake offers excellent opportunities for catching bass, catfish, and crappie.
Why It’s Great in Spring:
- Warmer weather encourages fish to move into shallow backwaters.
- Unique swamp-like environment provides excellent cover for fish.
- Ideal for kayak and canoe fishing due to the shallow, winding waterways.
Spring Fishing Tips:
- Try using frog lures and soft plastics near lily pads and fallen trees.
- Catfish bite well on cut bait or stink bait near deeper channels.
4. Toledo Bend Reservoir
Straddling the Texas-Louisiana border, Toledo Bend is one of the largest and most productive fisheries in the region. With 185,000 acres of water, this lake is an angler’s dream in spring.
Why It’s Great in Spring:
- Regularly ranked as one of the best bass fishing lakes in the country.
- High populations of largemouth bass, white bass, and crappie.
- Plenty of lodging options and fishing guides available.
Spring Fishing Tips:
- For bass, focus on shallow flats and creek mouths using crankbaits and jigs.
- White bass runs occur in early spring—use small spoons or live bait near moving water.
5. Lake Livingston
Lake Livingston is one of the largest lakes in Texas and a top choice for those targeting white bass and catfish. With ample shoreline access and numerous boat ramps, it’s a convenient destination for both boat and bank fishing.
Why It’s Great in Spring:
- Spring white bass runs create exciting fishing opportunities.
- Catfish are plentiful and actively feeding in shallow areas.
- Large lake with various habitats suitable for multiple species.
Spring Fishing Tips:
- Try drifting cut bait or live shad for trophy-sized blue catfish.
- White bass fishing is best in the creeks and river inlets—use small jigs or live minnows.
6. Sabine River
If you enjoy river fishing, the Sabine River provides a mix of bass, catfish, and white bass fishing opportunities. The flowing waters make for an exciting and dynamic fishing experience.
Why It’s Great in Spring:
- White bass runs peak in early spring, making it a hotspot for anglers.
- Plenty of public access points for bank fishing and launching small boats.
- A great destination for catching blue and flathead catfish.
Spring Fishing Tips:
- Use live bait or small crankbaits for white bass near riffles and deeper pools.
- For catfish, focus on deep holes and bends in the river, using cut bait or nightcrawlers.
Essential Spring Fishing Gear
Before heading out, make sure you have the right gear for a successful fishing trip:
- Rod & Reel: Medium to medium-heavy rods are best for bass, while ultralight setups work well for crappie.
- Bait & Lures: Soft plastics, spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and live bait (minnows, worms, cut bait) are must-haves.
- Clothing: Wear lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing and bring rain gear in case of spring showers.
- Fishing License: Ensure you have a valid Texas fishing license, which can be purchased online.
Conclusion
Spring is the perfect time to experience the best fishing spots in East Texas. Whether you’re after trophy bass at Lake Fork, crappie at Sam Rayburn, or catfish on the Sabine River, this season offers incredible fishing opportunities. With the right gear, techniques, and knowledge, you can make the most of your time on the water and enjoy a productive fishing trip.