Blue Catfish

While Largemouth Bass tend to steal the spotlight, the waterways near The Hills, Texas, also hold a decent population of Blue Catfish. Lake Travis, in particular, is home to some sizable blues. Targeting these fish requires a different approach than bass fishing. Blues are primarily bottom feeders, so focus on areas with structure and current, like river channels and deep holes. The cooler months, from late fall through early spring, are generally the most productive times to target them, as they become more active in cooler water. Use cut bait, such as shad or perch, on a Carolina rig or a three-way swivel rig. A good tip is to pre-soak your bait to let the scent disperse more effectively. Access to Lake Travis is readily available via numerous boat ramps, but be mindful of boat traffic, especially on weekends. Lake Travis blues can be quite large, so be sure to use heavy tackle and be prepared for a strong fight.