For anglers heading to the Red River in Shreveport today, October 2, 2024, you're in for a treat. The weather is looking mild, with morning temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit. Expect a light breeze blowing at about 5 miles per hour, making it an ideal day for fishing. There's a slight chance of precipitation, but it shouldn't disrupt your plans.
Sunrise is at 7:06 AM, and sunset will be at 7:05 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to cast your lines. The Red River, not being a tidal waterway, means you don't have to worry about tidal changes.
The water level on the Red River is currently stable, thanks to recent precipitation. The water temperature is in the mid-70s, and the clarity is moderate with about 2-3 feet of visibility, perfect for spotting and navigating.
Bass are expected to be active in the shallower areas, particularly during the early morning and late evening. Yesterday, anglers reported catching a good number of bass, crappie, and catfish. Bass were active during the major bite times, which are typically between 6:01 to 8:01 AM and 6:21 to 8:21 PM. They tend to feed near structural elements like submerged logs, drop-offs, and cypress trees.
For bass, use jigs, spinnerbaits, crankbaits, jerk baits, and soft plastics like Ned rigs or Carolina rigs. Opt for a black/blue jig or spinnerbaits in white/chartreuse, chartreuse, or orange/chartreuse colors. For catfish, nightcrawlers, chicken livers, or stink baits are highly effective.
Some hot spots to consider include Benoit Bayou, Racetrack Bayou, and the points around the Long-Allen Bridge. These areas have irregularities in the water like sandbanks and holes that attract a wide range of fish. The northwest end of the river, similar to Cross Lake, features extensive cypress flats and boat docks, which are hotspots for bass. The Jefferson Shreveport Waterway Project and the areas around Wright Island are also productive spots.
Local anglers recommend fishing during the early morning and late evening when the sun is not directly overhead, as this is when bass are most active. With these conditions and tips in mind, you're set for a successful and enjoyable fishing trip on the Red River in Shreveport today. Tight lines