Premium DFW River Fishing | Carey Thorn

DFW's White Bass Bonanza: Wade Fishing at Its Best

Get ready to hit the creeks of DFW for some of the hottest white bass action Texas has to offer! Carey Thorn Fishing's private wade and bank fishing trips put you right in the middle of the annual white bass run, where the fishing is fast and furious from the moment you wet a line. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, these trips are tailored to give you a shot at some serious springtime action.

Trip Overview

We'll be wading the crystal-clear creeks and fishing from the banks in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, targeting white bass and crappie during their spawning runs. These trips run from February through April, prime time for catching these hard-fighting fish. At $150 per person, it's a steal for a private guided experience. We kick off early, usually around 6 AM to catch that morning bite, or if you're more of an afternoon angler, we've got 3:30 PM starts too. Solo fishermen are welcome – sometimes it's nice to have the water to yourself! Just bring your Texas fishing license, some snacks, and drinks. We've got all the gear you need, and we'll even provide water to keep you hydrated while you're reeling 'em in.

Wading into the Action

We'll access our fishing spots by foot, following game trails that lead to some of the best white bass haunts in DFW. Once we're in position, it's game on from the first cast. We'll be using light tackle, typically with small jigs or live bait, to entice these aggressive spawners. The key to success is reading the water and understanding where these fish stack up. I'll show you how to identify the deep runs, eddies, and current seams where white bass and crappie like to hold. We'll work our way upstream, hitting every likely spot, and trust me, when you find a school, it's non-stop action!

What Anglers Are Raving About

Our trips have been drawing rave reviews from satisfied anglers. While we don't have specific quotes to share, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Folks love the personal attention, the quality of the fishing, and the beautiful creek settings. Many have commented on how much they've learned about reading water and presenting lures effectively. The fast action and the chance to catch a good number of fish in a short time is always a hit, especially with newer anglers who are just getting their feet wet in the sport.

Target Species Breakdown

White Bass: These silver torpedoes are the stars of the show from February to May. They typically run 1-3 pounds, but don't let their size fool you – they fight like fish twice their weight. White bass move up from the lakes into the creeks to spawn, and when you find them, it's not uncommon to catch one on every cast. They're schooling fish, so where there's one, there's usually dozens more. Anglers love targeting white bass for their aggressive strikes and the sheer numbers you can catch in a day.

Crappie: From March through May, we also focus on crappie in shallow water. These tasty panfish are a favorite among anglers for both their fight and their flavor. They typically range from 3/4 to 1 1/2 pounds, and when you find a school, the action can be just as fast as with white bass. Crappie tend to hang around structure, so we'll target fallen trees, submerged brush, and other cover. The challenge of finessing these sometimes-finicky fish is part of the fun, and when you dial in the right presentation, it's like striking gold.

Why DFW is a White Bass Haven

The Dallas-Fort Worth area is blessed with a network of creeks and rivers that provide perfect spawning habitat for white bass. These fish, also known as sand bass, make their annual run up these waterways, creating a fishing bonanza that's hard to match anywhere else in Texas. The clear, flowing water and gravel bottoms of our local creeks are exactly what white bass look for when it's time to spawn. This concentration of fish in relatively small waterways means anglers can experience some of the most action-packed fishing of their lives.

Gearing Up for Success

While we provide all the necessary gear, it's good to know what we'll be using. Light to medium-light spinning rods paired with reels spooled with 6-8 lb test line are perfect for these fish. We'll be throwing small jigs, spinners, and sometimes live bait like minnows. Waders aren't always necessary, but bring a pair of old sneakers you don't mind getting wet. A hat, polarized sunglasses, and sunscreen are musts – the Texas sun can be intense, even in early spring. Don't forget your camera – you'll want to capture the memories of your trophy catches!

Seasonal Tactics for Top Results

As the season progresses from February to May, our tactics evolve with the changing patterns of the fish. Early in the run, we'll focus on the deeper holes where white bass stage before moving up to spawn. As waters warm, we'll move upstream, targeting the riffles and runs where fish actively spawn. For crappie, we'll start shallow and may move deeper as the water warms. I'll teach you how to 'read' the water, identifying the subtle changes in current and depth that often hold fish. We'll also adjust our lure selection and presentation based on water clarity, temperature, and fish activity level.

Conservation and Catch Ethics

While the fishing can be red-hot, we practice responsible angling to ensure the health of our fisheries. We'll discuss proper catch-and-release techniques, and if you want to keep a few for the table, I'll show you how to clean them quickly and efficiently. Understanding bag limits and size restrictions is part of being an ethical angler, and we'll make sure we're always fishing within the rules. It's all about preserving these incredible runs for future generations of anglers.

Book Your Spring Fishing Frenzy

Don't miss out on some of the best fishing DFW has to offer! These white bass and crappie runs are the highlight of many anglers' year, and spots fill up fast. Remember, we've got a 7-day cancellation policy, so book with confidence. Whether you're looking to learn new techniques, fill the freezer with some tasty fillets, or just enjoy a day on the water, our private wade fishing trips are the ticket. Give us a call or shoot us an email to reserve your date. The white bass are calling, and it's time to answer!