Lake Sam Rayburn Fishing Forecast: Sunny Skies, Schooling Bass, and Crappie Bites

If you're planning to hit Lake Sam Rayburn today, here's what you need to know. First off, the weather is looking partly sunny with a high of 89 degrees and a low of 71 tonight, so make sure to pack your sunscreen and a light jacket for the evening.

Sunrise is at 7:13 AM, and sunset will be at 6:55 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to fish. The moon is in its First Quarter phase, rising at 3:21 PM and setting at 12:31 AM, which can influence fish activity, especially during the major bite times from 6:55 AM to 8:55 AM and 7:49 PM to 9:49 PM.

The water level is slightly stained and at 1.24 feet below pool, with a temperature of 80 degrees. Bass fishing has been consistent, with bass schooling more in the morning, especially on grass edges and points. Expect topwater action early in the day using lures like chatterbaits, swimbaits, or frogs. For deeper bass, target the mouth of creeks and offshore flats with jig head minnows, Carolina rigs, dropshots, and shaky heads.

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

For hot spots, consider areas like Needmore Point, Five Fingers, and Powell Point. These areas often see a lot of activity, especially during the morning schooling hours. Buck Bay and Coleman Bay are also good spots, particularly if you're looking for some land-based fishing.

Remember to check the local fishing regulations and to drain water from your boat and onboard receptacles to prevent the spread of zebra mussels. Good luck out there