Sport fishing was a priority when Lake Sam Rayburn was conceptualized and planned in the 1950s, but one wonders if its planners could have imagined just how superb a fishing destination it would become. While serving those original purposes of water conservation, flood relief, and hydroelectric power generation, the lake has also grown to be an acclaimed fishing destination, earning Bassmaster magazine's recognition as the best bass fishing lake in the U.S. in 2018. 

The Best Fishing Events at Lake Sam Rayburn

It isn't as if one needs to fish to enjoy the largest lake in Texas. One need go no further than here. With 114,000 acres of water surface, Lake Sam Rayburn is more than just a destination for bass fishermen. The lake also has large populations of crappie and channel catfish, as well as bluegill and sunfish for younger or more inexperienced fishermen.

Still, as the Bassmaster designation attests, largemouth bass is the premium at Lake Sam Rayburn. The lake is subject to numerous stockings every year, and the bass are so abundant that the lake holds more than 300 tournaments annually. Those vary from small tournaments to some of the nation's largest, including ESPN/BASSMasters, Walmart BFL, McDonald's Big Bass Splash, and BASS Champs.

The Third Annual Reel United Fishing Tournament is soon on the docket, scheduled for December 12 from 6 AM to 2 PM. The tournament promises $5000 in prize money, and it’s only $150 for two angler crafts to enter. 

The Best Kind of Fishing at Lake Sam Rayburn

You don’t have to be a competition-level fisherman to fish at Lake Sam Rayburn. With 750 miles of shoreline, the lake gives endless opportunities for fishing as well as picnicking and numerous boat launches for those who want to go out and test the deeper waters. 
There are also several experienced fishing guides who will take small groups out fishing in what they know to be the good areas.

As the lake is a good fit for all levels of angler and topwater fishing, so too are jig heads. Jigs fit every angler and most types of fishing, but they’re made to sink, and made to keep the bait off the lake floor. In addition to Texas rigs, crankbaits, spinners and swimbaits, but if you want to up your topwater game, add these floating jig heads to your tackle box.  

Whatever your outdoor passion, if you have a passion for the outdoors, Lake Sam Rayburn has something for you. Perfect for family weekends and group gatherings, it’s also an excellent choice if you just need to get away from the hustle and bustle of life and get closer to nature.