Red River fishing around Shreveport is on fire this Friday, May 2. We had partly cloudy skies this morning, with temps starting around the low 60s and climbing quickly with some humidity. Expect highs in the upper 70s to low 80s. Sunrise was right before 6:20 AM, and sunset will be just after 7:55 PM, so there’s plenty of daylight to wet a line.

There’s no major tidal swing to worry about on the Red, but water levels will fluctuate some due to lock and dam operations. If you notice a bit of extra flow, that can push bait and really turn the bite on, especially around structure and current breaks.

Largemouth bass are the main draw right now. We’re seeing strong activity with fish up shallow and around cover. Several folks pulling double-digit bass out, mostly working the edge of grass and submerged timber. Spinnerbaits and crankbaits have been the best producers, especially with a little flash in the stained water. If the bite slows, switch to soft plastics or a jig and work it slow near the bottom. Smallmouth bass are biting too, especially near rocky banks and riprap. For smallies, try a minnow or crayfish pattern crankbait.

Catfish are also biting real well. Blue and channel cats have been coming out in numbers lately, with fresh cut bait or nightcrawlers the ticket. Anchor up near deeper holes or the backside of sandbars and give it a little time.

If you want a mixed bag, there’s even been some striper action reported, especially early and late, near the tailraces below the locks. Swimbaits and live shad work best if you can get your hands on some.

For hot spots, hit the section just below the downtown Shreveport launch—there’s plenty of submerged cover and good current breaks. The oxbows near Coushatta and the backwaters around Red River South Marina are loaded up with fish right now.

To sum up: best bite is early and late, focus on moving baits for bass, fresh cut bait for catfish, and don’t be afraid to cover water until you find some active fish. Good luck and tight lines from Artificial Lure.