As of October 7, 2024, the fishing scene at Lake Texoma is looking promising, despite the lake's current turnover creating some challenging conditions.
### Weather and Tidal Report
The weather has cooled down significantly, with highs expected around 77 degrees and lows in the mid-60s. There is a chance of thunderstorms in the evening, but for now, it's partly sunny. The water temperature is around 75 degrees, and the lake level is 1.51 feet below pool.
### Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrise today is at 7:24 AM, and sunset will be at 6:54 PM, giving you ample time to enjoy the morning and evening bites.
### Fish Activity
Striped bass fishing has been excellent, particularly in the early morning hours. These fish are seeking cooler waters and can be found in the shallows, especially during the coolest part of the day. Yesterday, anglers reported catching big stripers on topwater lures in shallow flats, typically in 1-6 feet of water. As the day progresses, fish tend to move to deeper waters, around 25-40 feet, near river channels and creeks.
### Types and Amounts of Fish
Stripers are the main catch, with many large fish being landed. The topwater bite has been thrilling, with big explosions on the surface as these fish hit the lures. In addition to stripers, catfish are also plentiful, with both channel and blue catfish being caught on cut shad and prepared baits in 15-50 feet of water.
### Best Lures and Bait
For striped bass, topwater plugs like pencil poppers and swimbaits are working well in the shallow flats. Live bait, such as gizzard shad and threadfin shad, is also highly effective when drifted near ledges and in the tributaries. For catfish, cut shad and prepared baits are the way to go.
### Hot Spots
Some of the best spots to try your luck include the shallow flats near the river channels and creeks, particularly in areas where the water is starting to cool down. The backs of creeks and tributaries are also hot spots, especially during daybreak when the stripers are active on the surface. For catfish, focus on the ledges and flats in 15-50 feet of water.
Remember, stealth is key, especially during the week when there is less boat traffic. If you're planning to fish on the weekends, be prepared to work a bit harder to find your catch. With the cooler weather setting in, this is an excellent time to target those big stripers on the fly or with surface lures.