Q&A - How To Catch White Bass

A friend asked...

Q: Hi Troy, I was near Granger Lake and got totally skunked while going for white bass. Meanwhile everyone else was killing it. Any tips on lures? - M

A: I've been out a couple of times and have been skunked too. I don't think the main run has happened yet, but they should start moving any day now. Some people say that the white bass start to swim up the river to spawn after a good rain and when there is a bit of a flow to the river. 

Most of the people catching have been using river caught minnows. They bring a casting net with a very small diameter web and catch the minnows in the shallow water of the river. For some reason the store bought minnows don't seem to be as effective. 

Once you have minnows you want to find a place in the river with a deep pool of water. Often these pools are near a bend in the river or under a large tree. The white bass typically sit in water 5 to 6 feet deep. Attach a minnow to a number 4 size hook, add a small split shot 1 foot above the hook and add a thin bobber 5 to 6 feet above the hook. Cast into the pool and wait. 

When the fish start to move through the river it is much easier to spot and locate where to fish. You'll be able to catch the white bass on a white grub jig, white/grey clouser fly or live bait like minnows or shad.

Some very popular places to catch white bass in Central Texas are at Colorado Bend State Park, The Steps at the San Gabriel Wilderness Preserve and downriver of the San Gabriel Canoe and Kayak Launch. 

Lastly, please practice Leave No Trace principles when fishing. There is a tremendous amount of garbage that is left along the river bank. Consider bringing a net or bag to carry out some trash on your hike out. Every bit helps.