Lake Travis provides a myriad of angling opportunities for various species in the summer heat. Recently the catfish bite has kicked into high gear.
Large schools of blue and channel catfish congregate on deep water ledges in the 25 to 40 foot zone. Long offshore flats and points have been producing steady action on Canadian nightcrawler worms.
This deep, vertical style of fishing is great for youngsters and adults who enjoy fast action. No casting required; just fish under the boat a foot or two off the bottom.
I use my sonar screen to pinpoint the location of these whiskered predators. You could call a catfish lazy, but really they are just efficiency experts. The less energy they have to expend in pursuit of food the better.
On June 24, I had the pleasure of guiding four young boys and their camp counselor from the Lakeway Resort Kid’s Camp. We used a roomy, rental pontoon boat furnished by Lakeway Marina.
In just over one hour, this late morning excursion produced 16 catfish and two bass from one anchored position. Everybody caught fish, but eleven year old Ben Shrader of Lakeway was in the zone, and caught the most (8) and the biggest (a 2-pound blue cat.) I congratulate Ben for his focus and determination in the heat and humidity.
Lake Travis catfish are great eating, especially the small ones between 12 and 16 inches. Every summer we will tangle with some in the 10 to 20 pound class. Talk about a battle on light tackle. They are all fun to catch, regardless of size.
The daybreak bass fishing on surface lures has been mostly good on chuggers. Green pumpkin plastic worms and Senkos are productive in deep water after the sun climbs high in the sky.
It is always good to have hungry catfish as a backup plan.
For updated info or a guided excursion, call 512-261-3644 or e-mail achristenson1@austin.rr.com.