Fishing at Sam Rayburn Reservoir, Texas
114,500-acre reservoir · Jasper County · 164 ft elevation · 3 species stocked
Stretching across 114,500 acres in Jasper County, Sam Rayburn Reservoir is a reservoir known to anglers throughout Texas for its consistent fishery for its target species. Whether you're casting from a kayak or running deeper structure from a boat, the data on this page will help you plan your next trip.
Recent Stocking Reports
The most recent 7 stocking events on record for Sam Rayburn Reservoir:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 30, 2025 | 🐟 Crappie | 7,058 | 8.4″ |
| Oct 8, 2025 | 🐠 Largemouth Bass | 1,621 | 7.8″ |
| Jun 7, 2025 | 🐠 Largemouth Bass | 2,180 | 4.9″ |
| Dec 9, 2024 | 🐠 Largemouth Bass | 570 | 6.4″ |
| Jun 4, 2024 | 🐠 Largemouth Bass | 747 | 5.9″ |
| Apr 28, 2024 | 🐟 Channel Catfish | 2,222 | 10.7″ |
| Apr 12, 2024 | 🐟 Crappie | 8,591 | 11.7″ |
Species You Can Catch
- 🐟 Crappie — best in spring
- 🐠 Largemouth Bass — best in spring, summer
- 🐟 Channel Catfish — best in summer
Where to Catch Crappie in Texas
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Sam Rayburn Reservoir, the state-level guide ranks the top lakes by stocking volume — a good supplement to this page when planning a trip:
Best Time to Fish Sam Rayburn Reservoir
For crappie, the best fishing on Sam Rayburn Reservoir is typically in spring, when surface temperatures fall in the 55–70°F range. That window matches the active feeding period for the species and aligns with reservoir thermal turnover, putting fish in predictable depths and structure. Check the recent stocking dates above — fish are easiest to locate in the first two to four weeks after a planting.
Gear Recommendations
Curated picks for the species stocked in Sam Rayburn Reservoir. Links go to Amazon — as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
- rod: Light 10' crappie rod
- reel: Light spinning reel
- rod: Medium-heavy 7' baitcasting rod
- reel: Baitcasting reel 7.1:1
- rod: Medium-heavy 7' catfish rod
- reel: Catfish baitcaster
Nearby Lakes
Other stocked waters within ~75 miles of Sam Rayburn Reservoir:
- Toledo Bend Reservoir — 21.8 mi (185,000 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Texas fishing license is required at Sam Rayburn Reservoir. Buy one online and check current regulations at the Texas Parks and Wildlife. Always confirm seasonal closures, size limits, and creel limits before fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fish are stocked in Sam Rayburn Reservoir?
Sam Rayburn Reservoir has been stocked with Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish.
When was Sam Rayburn Reservoir last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Oct 30, 2025, when 7,058 crappie were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Sam Rayburn Reservoir?
Yes — a valid Texas fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Texas Parks and Wildlife.