Beat the Summer Slump: Tips for Texas Anglers

Photo byWe Go Fishing

We are deep into the summer here in Texas; for many, summertime fishing is some of the most challenging times to fish. July and August provide some of the most brutal fishing conditions. Some think the heat turns off the bite, but that is not the case. You have to learn what to target in the summer months.

First, try night fishing. As the temperatures cool off, predator species begin their hunt. Catfish of incredible sizes are present in most areas, providing great angling opportunities. Generally, catfish are not fussy with what they will eat, but live perch or shad tend to provide the best results.

Second, target crappie. Crappie love structure and are often found around brush piles and docks. Bull minnows and shiners are their favorite. These fish are also great table fare.

Photo byWe Go Fishing

Third, use lights. Lights, especially green lights attract baitfish. Baitfish attract predators such as speckled trout. Sunken barges and docks are great for attracting fish using live shrimp.

Fourth, the redfish begin to school. Look for redfish in the bay systems as they target balls of baitfish. These marsh bullies are hardy fish and provide a great fight. They also move up and down the jetties stalking their prey.

Finally, get sharked. No one likes to lose their catch to a shark, so try targeting them. Blacktips, Spinners, and Bull Sharks are all over the Gulf Coast. They love cut bait such as ladyfish, jack Crevalle, and stingrays. Mullet is another bait to try while shark fishing. Remember to pay attention to Texas Parks and Wildlife regulations when targeting shark fishing.

What summertime fishing strategies do you use? Let us know in the comments!

Source: https://fishgame.com/2021/08/5-best-tx-hot-weather-fisheries/?_fl_id=8c522840-0aca-44ba-8ef4-0b109ac098e5&&em=d2Vnb2Zpc2hpbmcxQGdtYWlsLmNvbQ--&utm_campaign=TF%26G+Newsletter+For+Aug.+21%2c+2024