Carl Caruso scored an A+ while testing the waters of Richland-Chambers Reservoir.
Scott Baker
What’s your favorite fishing lake in Texas? Of course, there are the preeminent ones like Lake Texoma, Ray Roberts, and Lake Fork. But the lesser-known lakes also merit some well-deserved recognition, like Richland-Chambers Reservoir, an underrated oasis that’s actually one of the largest lakes in the Lone Star State and heaven for nature lovers (especially those of us who enjoy fishing).
Whoooooa! Richland who? To the world outside Eastern Texas, Richland-Chambers doesn’t have much of a reputation as a game fish factory. But those who know this 44,752-acre reservoir south of Dallas believe it has the stuff to someday rival the best of the best. The rural setting and being home to a large number of native species make it a perfect Fishing Club retreat for uninterrupted time on the water.
Being new to this area and unfamiliar with the characteristics of the lake, we set out with our professional guides. Angling for striper, known for their spirited fights; the quick, hard-biting channel cats; and the feisty, frenzied white bass, we headed straight to some of the best fishing spots on the reservoir!
Using electronic sonar and following the birds feeding overhead, we quickly hit pay-dirt. Topwater schooling had kicked into high gear. There were so many shad in these waters, chances were great—no, more than great—our target game lurked just beneath the surface. Casting into the depths of the lake, we were met with a bounty of fish. Catfish were everywhere and on a tear. Sandies were there for the picking from the bridge to the dam. And stripers were active close to the forest of trees out in the middle of the lake three to four miles offshore.
Dropping our lines, we felt multiple strikes on the falling bait and managed, with a quick snap of the rod, to set the hook. Rods were constantly bowed in an arc. Bottom bouncing snagged fish after fish. In truth, about the only thing preventing us from catching fish was not getting our bait into the water fast enough!
Reeling in over 100 fish, arms and shoulders tired and sore, we called it a day. Keeping plenty of our catch for the club’s upcoming fish fries, they were scaled, cleaned, and transformed into boneless fillets that’ll fry up hot and crispy.
Non-stop hits and the summer action was definitely underway. At Richland-Chambers Reservoir, “School Is in Session”!
Been fishing for answers? We’ve got ‘em. Come join the RR Fishing Club on the second Wednesday of each month at the Wildhorse Grill Boardroom at 4 p.m. For any inquiries, contact [email protected] or Scott Baker at 214-334-7664.