Get ready to cast a line and make some memories on beautiful Lake Texoma! This 6-hour trip with Papa Bob's Guide Service is tailor-made for folks new to fishing or those looking to brush up on their skills. We'll be targeting some of the lake's most popular game fish - Striped Bass and Catfish - with expert guidance from local pro Robert Kenedy. Whether you're 8 or 80, this laid-back outing is all about having a good time on the water and hopefully landing a few fish along the way.
We'll meet up bright and early at the marina, where Robert will get you situated with quality rods, reels, and tackle - all included in your trip. No need to worry about bait either; we've got that covered too. Once everyone's aboard, we'll motor out to some of Lake Texoma's proven fishing hotspots. Robert knows this lake like the back of his hand, so you'll be in prime territory for hooking into some fish. Throughout the day, he'll share easy-to-follow tips on casting, setting the hook, and reeling in your catch. This isn't a high-pressure outing - it's all about learning at your own pace and enjoying a day on the lake. With room for up to 3 guests, it's perfect for small groups or families wanting to try their hand at fishing.
On this trip, we'll likely be using a mix of techniques to target Striped Bass and Catfish. For the stripers, we might do some trolling - that's where we slowly cruise along trailing baited lines behind the boat. It's a great way to cover water and find active fish. When we're after catfish, we'll probably anchor up and use bottom fishing techniques. Robert will show you how to rig up your line, bait the hook (often with cut bait or prepared stinkbait for cats), and recognize when you've got a bite. Don't worry if you've never held a fishing rod before - by the end of the day, you'll be casting like a pro! We'll also touch on local fishing regulations and proper catch-and-release techniques if you're not keeping your fish for the table.
Striped Bass: These hard-fighting fish are the crown jewel of Lake Texoma fishing. Stripers, as we call 'em, can grow big - we're talking 20+ pounds! They're known for their powerful runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. Spring and fall are prime times for stripers, but they can be caught year-round. Nothing beats the thrill of feeling that first big striper hit your line!
Channel Catfish: These whiskered bottom-dwellers are perfect for beginners. They're abundant, bite readily, and put up a good fight for their size. Most channel cats we catch are in the 2-5 pound range, but bigger ones are out there. They're active all year but really turn on during the warmer months. Channel cats are also great eating if you want to take some home for dinner.
Blue Catfish: The big bruisers of the catfish world, blues can grow to monster sizes in Lake Texoma. While 5-20 pounders are more common, fish over 50 pounds are caught every year! Blues are most active in cooler weather, so fall through spring is prime time. Hooking into one of these giants will test your arms and your drag!
Flathead Catfish: Also known as "yellow cats" or "mud cats," flatheads are the ambush predators of the lake. They tend to hang around structure like submerged logs or rocky areas. Flatheads grow big and fight hard - a 20-pounder isn't uncommon. They're most active at night, but we can still target them during the day in the right spots. Landing a big flathead is always a highlight of any fishing trip.
Lake Texoma isn't just any old fishing hole - it's a world-class fishery right in our backyard. The lake's massive size (nearly 90,000 acres) means there's always new water to explore. Its unique mix of species, from the hard-charging stripers to the heavyweight catfish, offers something for every angler. But what really makes fishing here special is the sense of possibility. Every cast could be the one that hooks into your new personal best or that fish of a lifetime. And even on slower days, you can't beat the scenery - from soaring eagles to stunning sunsets, Texoma always delivers.
For beginners, this lake is ideal. The fish are plentiful, which means more chances to practice your skills and feel that exciting tug on the line. Plus, with a guide like Robert showing you the ropes, you'll pick up tips and tricks that'll serve you well on future fishing adventures. Many folks who start with a beginner trip like this end up coming back year after year, honing their skills and tackling new fishing challenges.
If you've been thinking about giving fishing a try, or just want a fun, low-key day on the water, this Lake Texoma Beginner Fishing Trip is the perfect chance. With everything provided and expert guidance from Robert, all you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and maybe a sandwich or two). Remember, the boat can take up to 3 guests, so it's a great opportunity for a small group outing or family bonding time. Just keep in mind that deposits are non-refundable, so check your calendar and make sure you're good to go before booking.
Don't let another fishing season slip by - get out on Lake Texoma and see what all the fuss is about! Who knows, you might just catch the fishing bug along with your first big striper or catfish. Give Papa Bob's Guide Service a call today and let's get your trip on the calendar. The fish are waiting!
Blue cats are the giants of Lake Texoma, with 20-40 pounders common and some topping 100 pounds. These big boys hang out in deep water, often near river channels or underwater structures. They're most active in cooler months, so fall through spring is prime time. Blues are popular for their sheer size and powerful fights - hooking one feels like snagging a submarine. Their meat is mild and firm, great for frying up. To target these behemoths, use fresh cut bait like shad or skipjack on heavy tackle. Drift fishing deep holes or anchoring near drops can be effective. Pro tip: when you feel a bite, give the fish time to swallow the bait before setting the hook. Get ready for an arm-wrenching battle when you hook into one of these blue brutes.
Channel cats are the bread and butter of Lake Texoma fishing. These whisker-faced bottom-feeders usually run 2-5 pounds, but 10-20 pounders aren't uncommon. You'll find them in deeper holes, around submerged timber, and near channel edges. They're most active at night, so evening and pre-dawn fishing can be red hot. Channel cats put up a stubborn fight and are prized for their firm, sweet meat. Folks love catching them because they're plentiful and relatively easy to land, even for beginners. To entice a bite, try stinkbait, chicken liver, or cut shad on the bottom. Here's a local trick: use a slip sinker rig to detect those subtle catfish nibbles. Once you feel that telltale "thump," get ready to set the hook and reel in your whiskered prize.
Flatheads are the ambush predators of Lake Texoma, lurking around submerged logs and deep holes. These bruisers average 10-30 pounds but can top 70. They're most active at night, especially in summer. Flatheads are prized for their hard-fighting nature and arguably the best-tasting catfish meat. Anglers love the challenge of outsmarting these wary giants. To catch one, use live bait like sunfish or shad - flatheads prefer their meals kicking. Fish tight to cover using stout tackle. Here's a local secret: try "stump bumping" by slowly bouncing a live bait along the bottom near likely hiding spots. When a flathead hits, it'll feel like your line snagged a freight train. Be ready for a prolonged battle to get one of these flat-headed fighters in the boat.
Striped bass are a hard-fighting game fish that'll give you a run for your money. They typically range from 5-30 pounds, with some real monsters pushing 50+. Look for them around underwater structures, drop-offs, and in open water chasing bait schools. Early mornings and evenings are prime times, especially in spring and fall. These fish are popular for their aggressive strikes and powerful runs. They've got a mild, flaky white meat that's great for the dinner table too. To up your odds, try using live bait like herring or shad - stripers can't resist a lively meal. When you hook one, hang on tight and be ready for some serious action. It's no wonder anglers get hooked on chasing these striped battlers.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha engine
Maximum Cruising Speed: 39
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 225