Texas · South Central
Sam Rayburn covers 114,500 acres in the Angelina National Forest. Flooded timber from its 1965 impoundment still holds bass throughout the lake. Hydrilla and coontail have established in recent years, adding a grass component to the fishery.
Informational guide. Always verify current Texas fishing regulations, licensing, and public-access rules — and check real-time weather before heading out.
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Current weather, water temp & solunar forecast for Sam Rayburn Reservoir
Year-Round Patterns
Spring
Pre-spawn fish stage on main lake points and secondary creek channel edges. Spawn occurs on sand and gravel flats in March–April.
Summer
Night fishing with 10-inch ribbontail worms on main lake points is legendary here. Deep timber holds fish at 18–28 ft during the day.
Fall
Schooling activity on main lake. Follow the shad with topwater and fast crankbaits.
Winter
Slow down considerably. Football jigs on main lake timber and ledges.
Go-To Presentations
Common Questions
The top techniques for Sam Rayburn Reservoir are Texas rig (night), Football jig, Spinnerbait, Crankbait. Night fishing with 10-inch ribbontail worms on main lake points is legendary here.
Spring pre-spawn (March–April) produces the largest fish at Sam Rayburn Reservoir. Pre-spawn fish stage on main lake points and secondary creek channel edges. Fall is the most consistent season for numbers.
Night fishing with 10-inch ribbontail worms on main lake points is legendary here. Deep timber holds fish at 18–28 ft during the day.
Slow down considerably. Football jigs on main lake timber and ledges.
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Hank will pull live weather, water temp, barometric pressure, and solunar times — then tell you exactly what to tie on.
Ask Hank about Sam today →