Channel Catfish

Springer, Oklahoma, is a fine place to chase channel catfish, particularly in the waters of Lake Texoma and its tributaries. While not as massive as the blues, channel cats are abundant and offer consistent action. Spring and early summer, especially after a good rain, are prime times as they move into shallower water to spawn. Evenings and nights are typically the most productive periods. A great local tip is to fish around submerged timber or near the mouths of creeks entering the lake. Simple rigs like a Carolina rig or a slip sinker rig baited with nightcrawlers, chicken liver, or commercial stink baits work well. The catfish in Texoma aren't particularly picky, but having a variety of baits on hand can help. Bank fishing access is available at several points around the lake, and numerous boat ramps provide easy access for anglers with boats.