There is no question that the most exciting time to catch Crappie is in the Spring. That time is now.
Crappie Fishing Report
Crappie are being caught in good numbers all over Lake O’ the Pines. As of last week lots of fish were 
being caught under and close to the 155 bridge on the North side of the lake. Most of the fish were caught in or right beside the Big Cypress river channel. Fishing in this end of the lake has been spectacular since mid February. One fisherman has been fishing this area on multiple occasions and has caught over 800 keeper Crappie since February. Most fish are being caught in 14 to 19 feet of water on Cajun Crickets. Minnow fisherman are also doing very well.
The North end of any lake generally heats up faster and Lake O’ the Pines is no exception. Water temperatures varied as much a 5 degrees from mid lake to the North end. Crappie activity picks up when the water temperatures get above 60 degrees. This is why the North end of Lake O’ the Pines is better for catching fish in late Winter and early Spring. With that being said, the water temperature at mid lake is 65 degrees and the spawn in starting all over the lake.
Fisherman are reporting good numbers of fish being caught in 4 foot or water or less in Alley Creek, Johnson Creek, Copeland Creek and Hurricane Creek. I have also done well on structure in 8 to 10 foot of water in the main lake close to the creeks. I appears that some of the early spawning fish are done laying eggs and are moving to slightly deeper water to fatten up for the summer. We caught a 14.5 inch Crappie on a natural brush pile close to alley creek. Crappie Fishing should be good until the heat of the Summer kicks in.
Bass Fishing Report
There have been several Bass Tournaments on Lake O’ the Pines the last few weeks. Conversations with these fisherman indicate that good Bass are being caught in the major creeks in 4 foot of water or less. Texas rigged craw baits are the favorite, but some fish are hitting spinner baits and swim jigs as well.
Catfish Fishing Report
Catfish are biting fair on worms and on trot lines with cut bait. I can throw Catfish food off of my dock and catch a mess in a few minutes with worms. The Catfish are full of eggs and will probably spawn early this year.
Lake Conditions
The water temperature is 63 to 88 degrees. I saw temperatures as high as 69 on March 26th.
The water clarity is lightly stained. On windy days it will mud up some close to shore.
The water level is 228.73. Normal seasonal elevation is 230.00.
The water release rate is 1100 cubic feet per second.
This Lake O the Pines Fishing Report is done as a courtesy.
Useful Information
Place to Stay on Lake O’ the Pines, Texas
Boat Rental on Lake O’ the Pines
Lake O’ the Pines Public Access Information