As of November 16, 2024, Lake Sam Rayburn is offering some excellent fishing opportunities. The water is slightly stained, with a temperature of 72 degrees, and the lake level is 2.43 feet below pool.

For today, expect a sunny day with mild temperatures, perfect for a day on the water. Sunrise is at 6:43 AM, and sunset will be at 5:13 PM. There are no significant tidal changes to worry about on this freshwater lake.

Fish activity is robust, particularly with the abundance of shad in shallow water. Shallow bass are actively feeding on these shad and can be caught using spinnerbaits and topwater frogs. These bass are centered around shoreline brush, hay grass, high spots, shallow ditches, and creek channel swings. You can also use Texas rigs, wacky rigs, shallow water crankbaits, and topwaters to target these fish.

There is a large population of schooling bass chasing bait balls around main lake ledges in 17-22 feet, main lake drains in 10-17 feet, and main lake and secondary points. For these schooling bass, try using a dropshot, Carolina rig, ½-¾ ounce jig, or deep diving crankbait.

Crappie are transitioning from main lake brush to creek channels, and they can be caught on brush piles with minnows or jigs. Blue and channel catfish are fair in 24-27 feet of water and in the river bends on cut bait and minnows.

Hot spots include the areas around shoreline brush and hay grass, as well as the main lake ledges and secondary points. The creek channel swings and shallow ditches are also worth exploring.

Remember to be cautious with navigation as the lake level is expected to continue dropping slowly through the winter. And don't forget to drain the water from your boat and onboard receptacles to prevent the spread of zebra mussels.