Texas is a paradise for catfish anglers, offering year-round opportunities to reel in impressive catches. However, understanding seasonal patterns can significantly improve your success. Whether you’re targeting channel catfish, blue catfish, or flathead catfish, knowing when they are most active can make all the difference.
Spring (March–May)
Spring is one of the best seasons for catfishing in Texas. As water temperatures rise, catfish become more active, feeding aggressively after the winter slowdown. This is also the spawning season, meaning catfish move into shallower waters, making them easier to catch. Blue catfish and channel catfish are particularly abundant during this time, often found in 10 feet of water or less.
Summer (June–August)
During the summer, catfish tend to move to deeper waters during the day to escape the heat but return to the shallows at night to feed. Night fishing is highly effective, as catfish prefer low-light conditions. Flathead catfish, which thrive in warmer waters, are especially active during summer nights.
Fall (September–November)
As temperatures begin to cool, catfish enter a feeding frenzy to bulk up for winter. This is an excellent time to target large blue catfish, which are often found near ledges and deeper channels during the day but move to flats at night. Flathead catfish also remain highly active, making fall a prime season for trophy catches.
Winter (December–February)
Winter is the best season for catching trophy blue catfish in Texas. These giants tend to gather in deep water, making them easier to locate and target. While channel catfish and blue catfish remain active, flathead catfish become less aggressive during the colder months.
Best Locations for Catfishing in Texas
Some of the top catfishing spots in Texas include:
- Lake Texoma – Known for massive blue catfish.
- Lake Livingston – Offers excellent numbers of channel catfish.
- Lake Tawakoni – Dubbed the “Catfish Capital of Texas”.
- Choke Canyon Reservoir – Great for blue catfish and flatheads.
- Sabine River – A hotspot for all three major catfish species.
Final Tips
- Use the right bait – Blue catfish prefer cut bait like shad, while flatheads go for live bait.
- Fish at night – Especially in summer, when catfish are more active in shallow waters.
- Target deep waters in winter – This is where trophy blue catfish congregate.
By understanding seasonal patterns and adjusting your techniques accordingly, you can maximize your catfishing success in Texas. Whether you’re after a trophy blue catfish or a mess of channel cats for the fryer, timing is everything!
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