Fishing Forecast for Lake Sam Rayburn: Topwater Bass, Crappie, and Catfish Biting Well

As of October 13, 2024, Lake Sam Rayburn is offering some excellent fishing opportunities. The water is slightly stained, with a temperature of around 80 degrees, and the lake level is about 1.24 feet below pool.

Weather conditions are mild, making it a perfect time to be out on the water. Sunrise was at 7:24 AM, and sunset is expected at 6:54 PM, giving you a full day to enjoy the lake.

Bass activity is quite strong, particularly in the mornings when they are schooling more actively. Expect topwater action on grass edges and points, making lures like chatterbaits, swimbaits, and frogs highly effective. For those targeting deeper bass, Carolina rigs, dropshots, and shaky heads are working well, especially at the mouth of creeks and on offshore flats where bass are chasing bait.

Crappie fishing is fair, with the best catches coming from standing timber in about 27 feet of water on brush piles. Minnows over jigs are the preferred bait for crappie. Blue and channel catfish are also fair, found in 24-27 feet of water and in the river bends, biting on cut bait and minnows.

For hot spots, focus on the hay grass and flooded bushes early in the morning to catch bass chasing bait. The mouth of creeks and offshore flats are also productive areas, especially where you can find schooling bass heavily chasing bait balls around main lake ledges and secondary points.

Remember to navigate with caution due to the presence of sandbars and stumps, especially with the lake level expected to drop further for dam maintenance. Enjoy your time on Lake Sam Rayburn, and don't forget to drain your boat's water to prevent the spread of zebra mussels.