In spite of some good rainfall amounts over the past few weeks here in east Texas, Lake Fork is still over 7ft low. The water temperatures dipped down into the upper 30s in some of the northern creeks on Fork last week, however after several days of warmer weather most of the lake is reading in the upper 40s now. This is still very cold for our predominately Florida strain bass, but fish can still be caught.
This is probably my favorite time of year to fish on Lake Fork because the big fish are at their biggest, filled with eggs and fattened up for winter. I also enjoy the lower numbers of other fishermen out on the lake. There are some week days where it seems you have the lake all to yourself. Our overall size average is probably at its best throughout the next several weeks.
No one should come expecting quantity in the winter. Of course, there are special days when you can catch some good numbers, but this is the time of year to look for quality fish. I try to prepare my customers by comparing our outing to a trophy hunt. We are looking for the fish of a lifetime. Luckily, many of the folks who decide to come to Lake Fork in January or February already have that mindset.
Right now I am targeting prespawn fish, staging on points, secondary points, and creek channels. These fish can be in a wide range of depths but somewhere between 8 and 18ft has seemed most productive lately. I am using jigs, swimbaits, jerkbaits, and chatterbaits mostly. The key is getting that first bite. If there is one fish around, you know there are likely a few more in the same area.
If I can help you on your trip to Lake Fork please let me know. If I am already booked I have a network of good guides that I trust will treat you right as well. Spring dates are almost gone, but there a few good ones still available. I also have some good weekday openings throughout the month of February. If you're on Facebook, be sure to look up "Lake Fork Guide Andrew Grills". That is my guide page on Facebook, there you will find I update with info a pictures several times a week. Thanks for reading my report and good luck on the water!
