A Day on Lake Sam Rayburn: Bass, Crappie, and Catfish Await Anglers

If you're planning to hit Lake Sam Rayburn today, here's what you need to know. First off, the weather is looking decent with the water slightly stained and a temperature of about 77 degrees, though it might warm up a bit as the day progresses. The lake level is currently 1.56 feet below pool, so be mindful of that when navigating.

Sunrise is at 7:13 AM, and sunset will be at 6:55 PM, giving you a good long day to fish. There's no tidal report to worry about since this is a freshwater lake, but the moon phase is in a waxing crescent, which can influence fish activity. Today's major fishing times are between 1:39 AM-3:39 AM and 2:09 PM-4:09 PM, with minor times from 9:25 AM-10:25 AM and 7:45 PM-8:45 PM.

Fishing has been consistent lately, with bass schooling more in the morning, especially around grass edges and points. Expect some topwater action here using lures like chatterbaits, swimbaits, or frogs. For shallow bass, target shoreline brush, hay grass, and high spots with Texas rigs, wacky rigs, or shallow water crankbaits. If you're after deeper bass, they're schooling around main lake ledges in 17-22 feet and main lake drains in 10-17 feet; use a dropshot, Carolina rig, or deep diving crankbait.

Crappie are fair on standing timber in about 27 feet of water, using minnows over jigs. Blue and channel catfish are also fair in 24-27 feet of water and in the river bends, where cut bait and minnows are effective.

For hot spots, consider areas like Needmore Point and Powell Point, which are known for their productive fishing. Buck Bay and Coleman Bay are also good spots, especially if you're looking for a mix of bass and crappie.

Overall, it's a good day to be out on the water at Lake Sam Rayburn, so pack your gear and make the most of it. Don't forget to drain your boat's water when leaving to prevent the spread of zebra mussels.