Fishing Charters in Texas
Browse fishing charters in Texas that can help you catch channel catfish.
Lake Tawakoni Fishing Guide Thunder Cove Guide Service
Please view the Rates for Lake Tawakoni Fishing Guide Tony Pennebaker. The premier Blue Catfish Guide on Lake Tawakoni and catches year-round.
Lake Tawakoni Fishing Guide / Trophy Catfishing / Whisk’ Fish’N
Lake Tawakoni Fishing Guide, James Evans puts Trophy Blue Catfish in the Net! Hire the best Blue Catfish Guide on Lake Tawakoni; James Evans.
Michael Littlejohn's Lake Tawakoni Guide Service
Official Fishing Guides on Lake Tawakoni. Tawakoni Guide Service, Lake Tawakoni's Premier and Largest Blue Catfish and Striper Guide Service. Striper Guide, Monster Trophy Catfish Guide and Crappie Guide Home of the Lake Record
North Texas Catfish Guide Service
Catfish guide service for blue catfish, channel catfish and flathead catfish on North Texas area lakes.
Best Time to Catch Channel Catfish
Channel Catfish can be caught year-round in Payne Springs. Right now in March, activity is Fair.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Channel Catfish
If you're looking to tangle with some channel cats in East Texas, Payne Springs is a great place to start. Located right on Cedar Creek Reservoir, this area offers excellent access to some seriously productive catfish habitat. Look for channels cruising the flats near the old river channel, especially after a good rain when fresh water is flowing into the lake. Spring and early summer are prime times as the catfish move shallow to spawn. Try drifting cut bait or stink bait along the bottom in 10-15 feet of water. A local tip: the causeway near Highway 175 is a popular spot for bank fishing, but be prepared for company. Another productive tactic is to target submerged timber and brush piles with live or cut shad. Cedar Creek cats can run surprisingly large, so be sure to bring tackle that can handle some weight.
Plan a Trip to Payne Springs
See what's biting in Payne Springs, find top-rated guides, and estimate charter costs.
How to Catch Channel Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Channel Catfish in Payne Springs.
Channel Catfish Fishing Regulations in Texas
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
25 per day
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Freshwater fishing license
For catfish, only 1 may be 30 inches or greater in length.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Texas state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Texas
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait for catching channel catfish near Payne Springs?
Channel catfish are opportunistic feeders and can be caught with a variety of baits. Popular choices include stink baits, nightcrawlers, cut bait, and chicken liver.
Is there a size limit for channel catfish in Texas?
No, there is no minimum size limit for channel catfish in Texas. You can keep any size you catch.
What is the daily bag limit for channel catfish in Texas?
You are allowed to keep up to 25 channel catfish per day. This is a combined limit with blue and flathead catfish.
Do I need a special license to fish for channel catfish in Texas?
No, you just need a valid freshwater fishing license to legally fish for channel catfish in Texas.
More Channel Catfish Fishing in Texas
Other Species to Fish in Payne Springs
Ready to Catch Channel Catfish in Payne Springs?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.