- Somerville Lake is a great place to fish for largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie.
- The lake has several fishing piers and boat ramps for easy access to the water.
- Anglers can also fish from the shoreline or rent a kayak or canoe to explore the lake.
- Spring and fall are the best times to fish at Somerville Lake, as the water temperature is ideal for catching large bass.
- Catfish are abundant year-round and can be caught using stink bait or cut bait.
- Crappie fishing is best in the winter months when they move into deeper water.
- Anglers should be aware of fishing regulations and obtain a valid Texas fishing license before fishing at Somerville Lake.
Are you tired of fishing in overcrowded waters? Do you dream of reeling in the catch of a lifetime without having to fight for a spot on the shore? Look no further than Somerville Lake, one of the best-kept secrets for fishing enthusiasts in Texas.
Nestled amongst rolling hills and sprawling forests, Somerville Lake offers an unparalleled experience for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking to snag some largemouth bass or hook a trophy catfish, this lake has it all. But with over 11,000 acres of water and miles of shoreline, where do you even begin to cast your line?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to fish at Somerville Lake and provide tips and tricks from local experts to help you land that big one. So grab your gear and get ready to discover your new favorite fishing spot.
The Quick Answer:
Somerville Lake is a popular destination for anglers due to its variety of fish species. Largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and white bass are among the most sought-after catches. Largemouth bass can be found near structures in shallow water during spring and fall months, while crappie tend to congregate in schools near submerged brush piles. Channel catfish are the most common species and can be caught using stink bait, while white bass can be caught using small jigs or crankbaits around submerged humps and points during their spring spawning run.
Top Fish Species Found in Somerville Lake
Somerville Lake is home to a variety of fish species, making it a popular destination for anglers. The lake is known for its abundance of largemouth bass, which can be found throughout the year. Other popular species include crappie, catfish, and white bass.
Largemouth bass are one of the most sought-after species by anglers at Somerville Lake. These fish can be found in shallow water near structures such as logs and rocks. They are most active during the spring and fall months when water temperatures are cooler.
Crappie are another popular species that can be caught at Somerville Lake. These fish tend to congregate in schools near submerged brush piles and other structures. The best time to catch crappie is during the winter months when they move into deeper water.
Catfish can also be found in abundance at Somerville Lake. Channel catfish are the most common species in the lake and can be caught using a variety of baits including stink bait, worms, and cut bait. Flathead catfish are also present but are less common.
White bass are another sought-after species by anglers at Somerville Lake. These fish can be caught using small jigs or crankbaits around submerged humps and points. The best time to catch white bass is during their spring spawning run.
Largemouth Bass
- Most active during spring and fall months
- Can be found in shallow water near structures such as logs and rocks
- Popular baits include plastic worms, topwater lures, and spinnerbaits
Crappie
- Tend to congregate in schools near submerged brush piles and other structures
- The best time to catch crappie is during the winter months when they move into deeper water
- Popular baits include minnows, jigs, and small crankbaits
Catfish
- Channel catfish are the most common species in the lake and can be caught using a variety of baits including stink bait, worms, and cut bait
- Flathead catfish are also present but are less common
- The best time to catch catfish is during the summer months when they are most active
White Bass
- Can be caught using small jigs or crankbaits around submerged humps and points
- The best time to catch white bass is during their spring spawning run
- Popular baits include small spoons, inline spinners, and jigging spoons
Fishing Regulations and Permits Required at Somerville Lake
Before heading out to Somerville Lake for a day of fishing, it’s important to understand the fishing regulations and permits required. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department manages fishing regulations at Somerville Lake.
A valid Texas fishing license is required for all anglers over the age of 17. Licenses can be purchased online or at local retailers. In addition to a fishing license, there may be specific regulations regarding bag limits, size limits, and methods of take for certain species.
It’s important to check the current regulations before heading out to fish. Regulations can change from season to season or year to year based on fish populations.
Texas Fishing License Fees (as of 2021)
- Resident: $30/year or $11/day
- Non-Resident: $58/year or $16/day
- Senior Resident (65+): $12/year
- Disabled Veteran Fishing License: Free
Common Fishing Regulations at Somerville Lake
- Largemouth Bass: 14-inch minimum length, 5 fish daily bag limit
- Crappie: 10-inch minimum length, 25 fish daily bag limit
- Catfish: No minimum length, 25 fish daily bag limit (channel and blue catfish combined)
- White Bass: No minimum length, no daily bag limit
Best Season for Fishing at Somerville Lake
The best season for fishing at Somerville Lake depends on the species you are targeting. Generally, spring and fall are the best seasons for fishing as water temperatures are cooler and fish tend to be more active.
During the spring months, largemouth bass can be found in shallow water near structures such as logs and rocks. They are most active during the pre-spawn period when they are feeding heavily before spawning. White bass also spawn in the spring and can be caught using small jigs or crankbaits around submerged humps and points.
During the summer months, fishing can be slower due to warmer water temperatures. However, catfish can still be caught using a variety of baits including stink bait, worms, and cut bait.
In the fall months, largemouth bass become more active as water temperatures begin to cool down. Crappie also move into shallower water during this time of year making them easier to catch.
During the winter months, crappie move into deeper water making them harder to catch. However, if you can locate schools of crappie using a fish finder, they can still be caught using a variety of baits including minnows and jigs.
Popular Fishing Spots at Somerville Lake
Somerville Lake offers anglers a variety of fishing spots to choose from. Here are some popular spots to consider when planning your next fishing trip:
Yegua Creek Park
Yegua Creek Park is located on the eastern shore of Somerville Lake and offers anglers access to a variety of fish species. The park has several fishing piers and boat ramps making it easy to launch your boat or fish from shore.
Nails Creek Unit
Nails Creek Unit is located on the western shore of Somerville Lake and offers anglers access to largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie. The park has several fishing piers and boat ramps making it easy to launch your boat or fish from shore.
Palestine Unit
Palestine Unit is located on the southern end of Somerville Lake and offers anglers access to white bass, catfish, and crappie. The park has several fishing piers and boat ramps making it easy to launch your boat or fish from shore.
Recommended Bait and Tackle for Fishing at Somerville Lake
The type of bait and tackle you use while fishing at Somerville Lake will depend on the species you are targeting. Here are some recommended baits and tackle for each species:
Largemouth Bass
- Plastic worms (Texas-rigged or Carolina-rigged)
- Jerkbaits
- Spinnerbaits
- Crankbaits
- Topwater lures (popper or frog)
- Braided line (20-30 lb test)
- Medium-heavy rod (6’6″ – 7′)
- Baitcasting reel
Crappie
- Minnows
- Jigs (1/16 – 1/32 oz)
- Small crankbaits
- Light line (4-6 lb test)
- Ultralight rod (5′ – 6′)
- Spinning reel
Catfish
- Stink bait
- Worms
- Cut bait (shad or perch)
- Braided line (20-30 lb test)
- Medium-heavy rod (6’6″ – 7′)
- Baitcasting reel or spinning reel with a strong drag system
- Jigging spoons
- In-line spinners
Silver-colored minnow baits - Boat ramps
- Fishing piers
- Picnic areas
- Campgrounds
- Restrooms and showers
- Fish cleaning stations
- Marina with fuel, snacks, and fishing supplies
White Bass
Renting Equipment for Fishing at Somerville Lake
If you don’t have your own fishing equipment, there are several options for renting equipment at Somerville Lake. Here are some places where you can rent fishing equipment:
Somerville Marina and Resort Store
Somerville Marina and Resort Store offer a variety of fishing equipment for rent including rods, reels, tackle boxes, and life vests. They also offer boat rentals if you want to fish from the water.
Pleasure Point Park
Pleasure Point Park offers fishing pole rentals for those who want to fish from shore. The park also has several fishing piers and boat ramps for those who want to launch their own boat.
Amenities and Facilities Available for Anglers at Somerville Lake
Somerville Lake offers several amenities and facilities for anglers to enjoy. Here are some of the amenities and facilities available:
Comparing the Fishing Experience at Somerville Lake to Other Nearby Lakes
Somerville Lake is not the only lake in the area that offers great fishing opportunities. Here are some other nearby lakes to consider:
Lake Travis
Lake Travis is located about an hour and a half from Somerville Lake and offers anglers access to largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, and white bass. The lake has several marinas with boat rentals, fishing guides, and tackle shops.
Lake Conroe
Lake Conroe is located about two hours from Somerville Lake and offers anglers access to largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, and hybrid striped bass. The lake has several marinas with boat rentals, fishing guides, and tackle shops.
Lake Buchanan
Lake Buchanan is located about two hours from Somerville Lake and offers anglers access to largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, white bass,and striped bass. The lake has several marinas with boat rentals,fishing guides,and tackle shops.
In conclusion, Somerville Lake is an ideal destination for fishing enthusiasts as it offers a variety of fish species and beautiful surroundings to enjoy the activity.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Place to Fish at Somerville Lake
What fish are biting at lake Somerville?
At Somerville Marina in the early morning, you can catch catfish, bluegill, and crappie with minnows and worms. If you want to catch black bass, they are biting slowly moving craw jigs and spinnerbaits around drop-offs and brush piles that are 6-10 feet deep. The crappie are especially good to catch on the main lake’s brush piles and pilings using minnows and a variety of jigs. This information was last updated on May 17th, 2023.
Do you need a fishing license to fish in lake Somerville?
Lake Somerville is an excellent location for fishing as it has a wide variety of fish such as bass, crappie, and catfish. Fishing from the shore or jetty does not require a license; however, if fishing from a boat, one should have a valid license.
What kind of fish are in lake Somerville?
Somerville Lake is a body of water that is used for fishing purposes.
Where are the crappie biting on Lake Conroe?
During the end of winter, when crappies are spawning in shallow waters, they can be easily caught with minnows and jigs near the shore where there is plenty of cover such as stumps, brush, timber, and vegetation. You can find them in the Caney Creek Arm and throughout the upper part of the lake.
What fish are biting at CJ Strike?
Although many fishermen focus on catching panfish, bass, and trout, there are plenty of other species available to catch as well.
What kind of fish is biting at Cherry Grove Pier?
At the tackle shop, visitors can receive fishing advice from the attendants on how to catch Spotted Trout, Sheepshead, Whiting, and Blue Crabs. The attendants can provide tips on how the fish are biting and recommend the best bait to use.