Reservation Number : 38199
Property Name : Travis Lake
Reservation Date : 12/30/2023 All Day -
Total Fish/Sizes : 3 LMB
Lures Used : Whopper Plopper, Spinner, Drop Shot, Ned Rig, Shakyhead, Wacky Rig, Squarebill Crank, Beetle Spin, TX Rig Soft Plastics

Decided at the last minute to do a day trip at Travis Lake before the New Year and Winter season hits. This was also a good opportunity to test out the club job boat and my new trolling motor, a 55lb Endura Minn Kota. The property was beautiful and the club boat was in good condition. Was worried the boat plug was missing but found it in the boat under some leaves – whew! I may buy an extra plug and keep it with me just in case. The lake was very muddy with low visibility. Air and water temps unknown as I forgot to record this. 

Hit the water at 7am and started off with a whopper plopper which is a new lure for me and something I’ve been meaning to try out. Switched over to a spinner bait for an hour to see if they were hungry for something moving. No dice. Transitioned on to my confidence baits (drop shot/ned) and was able to get 2 on a ned rig but lost them as they were close to the boat.

The next 5-6 hours were spent fighting the wind, dealing with baitcaster birdsnests, and trying to find a bait the fish were hungry for. Struggled during this time to get something going. 

At 3pm I made the decision to go back where I had lost those two fish in the morning and I am glad I did. Ran into 3 LMB just over the 14” slot limit within the last 30-45 minutes. These three were caught off a simple ned rig and shaky head. Packed up the truck, cleaned out the club boat then spent some time fishing off the dock to end the day. 

Good opportunity to wet the lines and test stuff out. For next time I think I will bring some type of anchor, or push pole to help with the wind issue.

If anyone has any additional equipment or tips on using the jon boat I would love to hear them!!!

Tight lines and a happy New Years!

-Jake