White Bass

While not as famous as some other Texas hotspots, the lakes around Crockett offer some decent white bass fishing opportunities. Houston County Lake and Ratcliff Lake are both worth exploring. These smaller lakes tend to warm up quicker than larger reservoirs, so the white bass spawning run can start earlier, sometimes as early as late January or February. Focus on the upper ends of the lakes where creeks enter, as this is where the whites congregate to spawn. Small jigs and spinners are the go-to lures. A local tip: pay attention to water clarity. If the water is stained, use brighter colored lures or lures with rattles to help the fish find them. Remember these smaller lakes can be more susceptible to drought conditions, so check lake levels before planning your trip. Ratcliff Lake is particularly scenic, located within the Davy Crockett National Forest.