Hybrid Striped Bass

If you're looking to tangle with some hard-fighting hybrid striped bass in East Mountain, Texas, Lake Hawkins is your destination. This reservoir is stocked with hybrids, offering consistent action throughout the year, but spring and fall are prime times. During the spring, the hybrids move shallow to spawn, making them accessible to anglers fishing from shore or small boats. Look for them near points and submerged timber. In the fall, as the water cools, they school up and chase shad. Trolling crankbaits or casting swimbaits can be highly effective. A local tip: pay attention to bird activity. Diving birds often indicate schools of shad, and the hybrids won't be far behind. Access to Lake Hawkins is readily available via the public boat ramp on the north side of the lake. Be aware that the lake can get crowded on weekends, especially during peak seasons. The average hybrid size here is respectable, with fish in the 3-5 pound range being common, and larger specimens are always a possibility.