Cooler Temps, Slower Bite: Lake Sam Rayburn's Late Fall Fishing Forecast

As of December 14, 2024, Lake Sam Rayburn is sitting at about 91.8% full, with the water level at 2.13 feet below the conservation pool elevation of 164.40 feet[2].

The water is slightly stained, and the temperature is around 58 degrees, which is a bit chilly due to the forecasted cold snap[1][5].

Sunrise today is at about 7:00 AM, and sunset will be around 5:00 PM. Given the cooler weather, fish activity is expected to be slower initially but will pick up as the fish adjust.

Bass are improving in shallow water, particularly where they are chasing bait into pockets. Target areas with brush and grass, and use lures like Texas rigs, wacky rigs, shallow water crankbaits, and topwaters. For deeper bass, look to main lake ledges in 17-22 feet and main lake drains in 10-17 feet, using dropshots, Carolina rigs, or deep diving crankbaits[1][5].

Crappie are slowly moving up the river and can be found on standing timber and brush piles in 15-27 feet of water. Jigs and minnows are the best baits for crappie. Catfish are good in 15-26 feet of water on cut bait and minnows[1][5].

For hot spots, consider the areas around the Angelina River and the Sabine River, where the fish tend to congregate around submerged timber, brush, and creek channels. The lower part of the reservoir, with its clearer waters, is also a good spot, especially around vegetation edges, flats, and humps[3].

Overall, it's a good time to fish Lake Sam Rayburn, especially if you're targeting bass, crappie, and catfish. Just be patient as the fish adjust to the cooler temperatures.