Lake Fork, Texas Largemouth Bass

Lake Fork remains the most intensely fished bass lake in North America. It might be considered a metro lake, lying as it does about an hour east of the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The busiest season on this 28,000-acre impoundment begins in early March and extends through the tail end of the spawn in late April into early May.

The winter season, from December through February, is laid back by comparison. North Texas can be cold during this period, but it's possible to fish most days, in hopes of catch one of the lake's giant Florida largemouths.

Jason Hoffman and Andrew Grills, two of the area's best guides, fish jigs along creek ledges in major creek arms and in portions of the main lake. A good day during winter might be just 10 fish, but any given cast could produce one surpassing 10 pounds—and a true giants surpassing 13 pounds is always possible. Lipless crankbaits also produce, especially ripped through hydrilla beds and along grass edges.

At times, other nearby lakes like Monticello produces steadier action. Most area guides spend at least some time on these other waters, which often produce fish up to 7 or 8 pounds. A-Rigs with paddletail swimbaits are one popular option on these waters.

One central lodging option is Lake Fork Marina, on the west bank near the center of the lake just south of the 515 bridge. There's a restaurant and a bait and tackle shop, along with a boat launch. One advantage on Lake Fork is the many launching options around the lake. Anglers trailer their boats to stay out of the wind.

Guides like Johnny Guice also can put you on plentiful white bass, which often produce fast-action and limits of fish. Crappies and catfish, including both channels and blues, also are plentiful.

Contact: Guide Jason Hoffman, lakefork.us; Guide Andrew Grills, lakeforkguideandrewgrills.com; Guide Richie White, bassfishing.org; Guide Rick Loomis, rickloomis.com; Guide Johnny Guice, lakeforkbigfish.com.