Lake Sam Rayburn Fishing Report: Promising Conditions and Top Tactics for Bass, Crappie, and Catfish

As of December 8, 2024, Lake Sam Rayburn is offering some promising fishing conditions. The water level is at 89.6% full, with the lake sitting at 161.79 feet, which is 2.61 feet below the conservation pool elevation.

The weather today is partly sunny with a high of 66 degrees and a low of 57 degrees tonight. Sunrise was at around 6:58 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 5:06 PM.

The water is slightly stained, with a temperature of about 62 degrees. This condition is favorable for several species of fish. Bass are improving in shallow water, particularly where they are chasing bait into pockets. Target areas with brush and grass, and use your favorite lures such as Texas rigs, wacky rigs, shallow water crankbaits, and topwaters. For deeper bass, consider using Carolina rigs, dropshots, and shaky heads around main lake ledges, drains, and points.

Crappie are slowly moving up the river and can be found in deeper waters around creek channels and brush piles. Jigs and minnows are effective for crappie. Catfish are good in 15-26 feet of water on cut bait and minnows, especially in the river bends.

For hot spots, focus on the lower part of the reservoir where the water is clearer, and fish tend to hold around vegetation edges, flats, and creek channels. In the upper third of the reservoir, target timber, brush, and laydowns.

Given the current conditions, it's a good time to hit the water early in the morning to catch bass chasing bait using chatterbaits, swimbaits, or frogs. As the day progresses, switch to deeper presentations for both bass and crappie.

Remember to check the local regulations for any special bag and size limits on certain fish species before you head out. Enjoy your day on Lake Sam Rayburn