Fishing Report

FEBRUARY Lake Fork Fishing Report

(Page is updated every month)

Please note new e-mail lkfork@quikus.com

I would like to start out this report with a request. We have had some inquiries for available dates thru emails. Some have been on your computers at work. Because of the spam blocker on some employers computers, we are unable to answer you. Please include a phone if you would so we can reply to your request. Thanks.

The weather has been very warm for this time of the year. Some days are in the high 60 to 70s and the 40s to 50s at night. If this keeps up through this month we could have a very early Pre spawn movement in February. I have seen some bedding fish as early as Valentines day before. Just something else to keep an eye on. The lake is still very low (5 feet 10 inches) so please watch where you go and slow down. Oak Ridge Marina and the Minnow bucket ramps are still usable as is the 154 public ramp. Both have been working on them because of the low water. There are numbers of fish moving to the main lake points and creek channels. Fish are holding in the 12 to 28 ft range on the points and 10 to 14 ft in the creek channels. Most seem to be on the drop off side of these points, main lake humps and ridges. There are large numbers of shad holding here. I have had my best luck in the creeks fishing a drop shot next to the tree line and a Peanut butter and Jelly jig. You need to fish these baits very SLOW. There has been many fish from 9 to 12lbs caught in the last two weeks. Come early and stay late. The best bite for me has been from 2:30 to dark. Crappie, Bar fish, Sand bass and Large mouth seem to all be together. Big Jigging spoons, Tail Kickers, Drop shots, Slow rolled Spinner baits and Jigs are the ticket. There is a new bait that is catching some really good fish. It is called the G-Shad. (It can also be bought at Oak Ridge ) and is made at Bayou baits just down the road on 154. This bait just flat catches fish. There is a 5 inch and a 3 inch available. Ask for the tackle manager Ernie Dye at Oak Ridge, he is very helpful on what is working on the lake. Our water temps are finally from 51 to 48 depending on the time of day. If you have not fished Lake Fork lately you will be surprised at the number of Sand Bass we now have. You no longer need to go to any other lake to catch these scrappers. We had a nice limit of sand bass last week in about three hours of real fun. They are great fun for kids and are not bad table fair. And yes we will clean the Crappie and San Bass for you also. Just bring a cooler to take them home in. All of these mentioned baits can be bought at the Oak Ridge Marina tackle store. Go early, stay late and fish slow. I hope this report helps you on your next trip. Don't hesitate to call me or Oak Ridge Marina for additional info later in the month. Always wear your life jacket and be courteous to others.

Crappie are on the move again. The bridges and Main lake points, (wintering holes) are both producing Crappie. Most are small now because of the winter transition. Check your electronics and look for these guys in 28 to 38ft of water. They have been scattered but when you find them it's on. I have done my best finding an area in 34 ft next to a 38 ft drop. Just let them come to you instead of trying to chase them. My favorite is the Bobby Garland jig (as you know buy now) with a 1/16th ounce jig head, and 6lb line and your set to go.

Catfish are also being caught in the creeks in 25 ft to 30ft. Punch bait or cut bait is working well. Bait out a hole with ranch cubes and your set to go. Creek channels next to a flat or shallow water will work the best. You can catch 50 or 60 by lunch easy. Yes they are very good smoked. YUM!

We have a package available for the golfers made available to us thru the Links at Lands End on Lake Fork. Ask about our half day fish and 18 holes of golf. It makes for a great day of fun in the sun. I might go golfing with you if you need a good laugh.

Don't forget that we have a 24 ft Barge available for Crappie and Catfish group trips. We also have Gift Certificates available for birthdays, anniversary's, or just a gift to someone special. It's a great way to say thanks to your employees!!!

If you are planning a Corporate trip, now is the time to book. It takes some time to get other guides and motel accommodations arranged. We can handle groups up to 50 and more with proper notice. We do have reference's available upon request. What a better way to thank your customers or your employees for their business and help.

Please feel free to call me for any additional info you may need at 1-903-629-3826. These tips will also work on the Lakes in your areas. Thanks for your interest in Lake Fork Guide Services. Be safe and God Bless. Dennis

Want to know what the weather will be like when you get here? Click on the link below to go the Tyler, Texas (our area) Weather forecast ... complete with satellite imagery and 5 day forecasts.