Wright Patman Lake Fishing Report Guide
Wright Patman Lake Fishing Guide
Wright Patman Lake, located in northeastern Texas, is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike. This reservoir, originally known as Lake Texarkana, was created by the construction of the Wright Patman Dam on the Sulphur River in 1956. Covering a vast area and surrounded by lush forests, the lake offers a picturesque setting for a variety of recreational activities, with fishing being one of the main attractions. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, Wright Patman Lake provides a perfect environment for a memorable fishing experience.
Wright Patman Lake Fishing Details
Here are some essential details about Wright Patman Lake to help you plan your visit:
- Water Surface: 20,300 acres
- Shoreline: 170 miles
- Average Depth: 7 feet
- Max Depth: 40 feet
- Surface Elevation: 226 feet above sea level
- Location: Bowie and Cass Counties, Texas
- Coordinates: 33.3537° N, 94.2520° W
- Accessibility: Easily accessible via U.S. Highway 59 and local roads
- Type of Lake: Reservoir
- Lake Amenities: Boat ramps, fishing piers, picnic areas, camping grounds, hiking trails, and swimming spots
Types of Fish in Wright Patman Lake
Wright Patman Lake is home to a variety of fish species, making it a prime spot for anglers. Here’s a closer look at the types of fish you can catch and where to find them:
- Largemouth Bass: These fish are often found near submerged structures such as fallen trees, docks, and vegetation beds. Early morning and late evening are the best times to catch them.
- White Crappie and Black Crappie: Crappie can be located around brush piles, submerged timber, and docks. They tend to move to deeper waters during the warmer months.
- Catfish: The lake has a healthy population of blue, channel, and flathead catfish. They are usually found in deeper waters near the bottom, especially around structures like submerged logs and rocks.
- Sunfish: Bluegill and other sunfish species are abundant near the shoreline, particularly around docks and aquatic vegetation.
- White Bass: These fish can be found in open waters, often schooling near the surface, especially during their spring spawning run.
- Hybrid Striped Bass: Found in open water, these fish are known for their strong fight and can often be located near drop-offs and underwater humps.
Best Fishing Baits, Lures, and Tackle Recommendations for Wright Patman Lake Fishing
Using the right bait, lures, and tackle can greatly enhance your fishing experience at Wright Patman Lake. Here are some recommendations:
- Largemouth Bass: Plastic worms, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits are effective. Topwater lures work well during low-light conditions.
- White Crappie and Black Crappie: Minnows and jigs are the go-to baits for crappie. Small plastic grubs in various colors can also be effective.
- Catfish: Stink bait, chicken liver, and cut bait are popular options. Use bottom rigs with heavy sinkers for the best results.
- Sunfish: Worms, crickets, and small jigs are ideal. Use ultralight tackle for the best experience.
- White Bass: Jigs, spoons, and small crankbaits work well. During the spring, live minnows and shad are particularly effective.
- Hybrid Striped Bass: Use live shad, large spoons, and swimbaits. Medium to heavy spinning or baitcasting tackle is recommended.
- 8 SEGMENTS LIFELIKE LURES: Designed with 8 segment multi-jointed body, TRUSCEND fishing lure can sink slowly and move flexible in water. In addition, life-like swimming actions make it attracting more catches and provoking predator fish to strike.
- Unbeatable Value: This fishing lure kit contains two crankbaits that run at a depth of 9 to 14 feet and serves as a great addition to your tackle box to cover a huge range
- BERKLEY POWERBAIT POWER GRUBS FRESHWATER SOFT PLASTIC BAITS: Featuring irresistible scent and flavor, PowerBait Power Grubs baits have a bulky body for presence and easier rigging, making it an essential tool for anglers who want to catch more fish.
- DOUBLE-BLADE UNIQUE DESIGN – TRUSCEND fishing lures for bass uses a double-blade rotating tail design, which delivers a heavy sputter as it moves across the surface, create noise and commotion that fish can not ignore. It also “roll resistant” and works well at a variety of speeds. Interestingly, when the monster bass bites the top water fishing lures, its tail will close to prevent the bass from spitting it out.
- ULTRA-SHARP OWNER HOOKS – Equipped with sharp high quality OWNER high carbon steel hooks and built-in magnet, the innovative design of these soft lures can help ensure increased fish hook ups in all situations while Reduce the odds getting hung up when fishing, thus saving your bait for future use.
- ✅ Purpose and Size: These grubs for fishing attract a wide variety of fish including trout, crappie, panfish, bluegill, bream, roach, carp and more. Using grub fishing lures that imitate worms offers many advantages over live worms or minnows. These crappie lures are equipped with an optimal size hook and a rubber grub. The hook dimensions are 10 mm wide and 25 mm long, and the length of the larva itself is 22 mm.
Best Fishing Spot Locations at Wright Patman Lake Fishing
Finding the right spot can make all the difference when fishing at Wright Patman Lake. Here are some of the best fishing spots to try:
- Sulphur River Arm: This area is known for excellent bass and crappie fishing, thanks to the abundant submerged timber and brush piles.
- Malden Lake: Offers easy access to deep waters, making it a great spot for catfish and white bass.
- Clear Springs Campground: This spot is excellent for largemouth bass, especially during their spawning season.
- Rocky Point: Great for sunfish and crappie, with plenty of shallow flats and vegetation beds.
- South Shore Park: The deeper waters near the park are ideal for catfish and white bass. Try fishing around the riprap for the best results.
Fishing Tips and Recommendations for Wright Patman Lake Fishing
To make the most of your fishing trip to Wright Patman Lake, consider these tips:
- Time of Day: Early morning and late evening are generally the best times to fish, as many species are more active during these periods.
- Seasonal Patterns: Fish behavior can change with the seasons. For example, bass tend to be near the shoreline in the spring, while crappie move to deeper waters in the summer.
- Weather Conditions: Overcast days can be great for fishing, as fish are often more active. Conversely, bright sunny days might require fishing in deeper waters.
- Local Knowledge: Talk to local anglers or visit a nearby bait shop for the latest fishing reports and tips. Locals often have valuable insights on where the fish are biting.
- Be Patient: Fishing requires patience and persistence. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t catch something right away. Keep trying different spots and techniques.
- Use Electronics: Fish finders and depth sounders can help locate schools of fish and underwater structures.
- Trolling: Trolling can be an effective technique for catching white bass and hybrid striped bass in open water.
Wright Patman Lake Fishing Reviews
Here are some positive reviews from anglers who have fished at Wright Patman Lake:
- John from Texarkana, TX: “Wright Patman is one of my favorite fishing spots. The variety of fish is impressive, and the scenery is beautiful. I’ve had great success with largemouth bass near the Sulphur River Arm.”
- Sara from Dallas, TX: “I love fishing for crappie at Wright Patman Lake. The brush piles are easy to find, and the fish are always biting. Plus, the camping facilities are top-notch.”
- Tom from Houston, TX: “Catfishing at Wright Patman Lake is fantastic. The blue catfish here are huge, and the deep channels make for some exciting catches.”
- Emily from Fort Worth, TX: “Our family loves fishing at Wright Patman. The kids enjoy catching sunfish, and we always have a great time. The park facilities are excellent too.”
- Mike from Austin, TX: “Bass fishing at Wright Patman is amazing. The underwater structures make it a prime spot, and the fish put up a great fight. Highly recommend it!”
Top-Rated Closest RV Parks, RV Resorts, and Campgrounds for Wright Patman Lake Fishing
Here are five top-rated RV parks, resorts, and campgrounds near Wright Patman Lake:
- Clear Springs Campground: Located right on the lake, this park offers full hookups, picnic areas, and boat ramps. Distance to the lake: 0 miles.
- Rocky Point Park: This park features full hookups, a swimming area, and a quiet, wooded setting. Distance to the lake: 1 mile.
- South Shore Park: This campground offers full hookups, a boat ramp, and excellent bank fishing opportunities. Distance to the lake: 2 miles.
- Malden Lake Park: Located a short drive from the lake, this park offers full hookups, Wi-Fi, and a peaceful atmosphere. Distance to the lake: 3 miles.
- Piney Point Park: With full hookups, playgrounds, and picnic areas, this resort is a family-friendly option. Distance to the lake: 5 miles.
Wright Patman Lake Fishing Summary
Wright Patman Lake is a fantastic destination for anglers of all skill levels. With its diverse fish population, beautiful surroundings, and excellent amenities, it’s no wonder this lake is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re targeting bass, crappie, catfish, or sunfish, you’re sure to have a memorable fishing experience at Wright Patman Lake. Don’t forget to take advantage of the nearby campgrounds and parks to make your trip even more enjoyable. Happy fishing!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Wright Patman Lake Fishing
1. Do I need a fishing license to fish at Wright Patman Lake? Yes, a valid Texas fishing license is required for anyone 17 years or older. Licenses can be purchased online or at local retailers.
2. Are there boat rentals available at Wright Patman Lake? Yes, there are several marinas and rental services around the lake where you can rent boats, kayaks, and other watercraft.
3. What is the best time of year to fish at Wright Patman Lake? Spring and fall are generally the best times for fishing, as many fish species are more active during these seasons. However, fishing can be good year-round with the right techniques.
4. Can I swim in Wright Patman Lake? Yes, swimming is allowed at designated areas around the lake. Be sure to follow posted safety guidelines and swim at your own risk.
5. Are there any fishing tournaments held at Wright Patman Lake? Yes, Wright Patman Lake hosts several fishing tournaments throughout the year. Check with local fishing clubs or the lake’s official website for information on upcoming events.
There you have it—a comprehensive guide to fishing at Wright Patman Lake!
