The numerous lakes of northeast Texas offer an ideal opportunity to get back to nature. Just an hour out of Dallas, fishing on Lake Tawakoni is the tonic you need to escape the city. Its 36,000 acres of surface and over 200 miles of shoreline offer incredible angling opportunities, with the lake stocked full of huge, strong, and delicious Catfish, Bass, and Crappie.
What to Expect
With such a vast expanse to explore, Lake Tawakoni offers recreational activities of all sorts, and fishing is a key part of it. Charter guides here offer you the chance to get on the water for anywhere from half a day to 10 hours. Avid anglers will relish the chance to maximize their chances on the water, while beginners may be more suited to a short trip to get a taste of fishing.
Try out a range of different techniques, as you jig the bottoms, let the trolling lines do the work, or take advantage of popping corks to entice the bite of a plenty of exciting fish.
What to Target
Catfish
Known as the “Catfish capital of Texas,” Lake Tawakoni is clearly a haven for catfishing. Many fishing guides here specialize in going after Blue and Channel Catfish, with the chance to target Flatheads too. Catfishing is good year-round on this lake, with the chance to land trophy-sized beauties in winter, so you’ll have plenty of action to keep you warm in the colder months.
Bass
While the lake may be known for its Catfish, you won’t want to miss out on the chance to target the range of Bass on offer here either. Stripers, Hybrid Stripers, White, and Largemouth Bass all call these waters home, with some creatures growing to incredible sizes. A record Striper of 22.25 pounds was caught on Lake Tawakoni, with the chance for Sand Bass action in the spring and fall to fill the boat.
Crappie
Last and maybe least, the delicious Panfish, Crappie, is a year-round feature of Lake Tawakoni. These small creatures are not known for their game qualities, but they are ideal for beginners to land their first catch. Don’t miss out on the chance to go after a tasty treat to take home, with the fall yielding the best results.
How to Prepare
Aboard a purpose-built fishing vessel, such as a bay boat, pontoon, or center console, you’ll have everything you need for a productive day. Make use of the latest rods and reels and a range of bait or lures to attract your fish, before your guide cleans and fillets your catch at the end of the day. Just check with your captain if you need to bring your own ice box to take the fish home.
Other than that, you’ll need to grab a TX freshwater fishing license before you come aboard. Feel free to bring your own drinks and snacks, and away you go
With fishing on Lake Tawakoni possible year-round, there’s no reason to miss out. Make it your next fishing destination and test your skills against some prized freshwater beauties!