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World-Class Bass & Crappie Fishing on Lake Fork

  • Published Date: July 17, 2025
  • Fishing
  • Gatesville, TX
  • $350 - $600 price range
  • Updated Date: September 19, 2025

Summary

Get ready for a full day of fishing excitement on Lake Fork with Captain Ryker Holmes! This trip combines the best of both worlds – hard-fighting largemouth bass in the morning and tasty crappie in the afternoon. You'll use top-notch gear and hit prime fishing spots as you learn from an experienced guide. Whether you're after a trophy bass or aiming to fill the cooler with crappie, there's non-stop action from start to finish. Lake Fork is known for its impressive fish, so expect some serious catches. Remember to pack snacks and drinks to keep your energy up throughout the day. With room for two anglers, it's perfect for bringing a buddy or family member along. Just note that deposits can't be refunded, so pick a day you're sure to make it out on the water.
World-Class Bass & Crappie Fishing on Lake Fork

Lake Fork Catches

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Fishing trip in Quitman with 2 people

Lake Fork action never stops

Largemouth bass caught by two people in Quitman

Bass fishing done right

Largemouth bass caught in TX

Another Lake Fork giant

Angler holding a large largemouth bass caught while fishing in Quitman

Calm waters, wild catches

Largemouth Bass caught while fishing in Quitman

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5 white crappie and crappie fish caught in TX

Lake Fork’s finest fishing moments

Florida Bass, freshwater fish caught in Quitman

Big bass days on Lake Fork

Fishing for a Florida Bass in Quitman

Trophy catch from Texas waters

Four white crappie fish caught while fishing in Quitman

Morning bites on Lake Fork

5 white crappie fish caught in Quitman

Topwater hits never get old

Fishing trip in Quitman with 2 people

Lake Fork action never stops

Largemouth bass caught by two people in Quitman

Bass fishing done right

Largemouth bass caught in TX

Another Lake Fork giant

Angler holding a large largemouth bass caught while fishing in Quitman

Calm waters, wild catches

Largemouth Bass caught while fishing in Quitman

null

5 white crappie and crappie fish caught in TX

Lake Fork’s finest fishing moments

Florida Bass, freshwater fish caught in Quitman

Big bass days on Lake Fork

Fishing for a Florida Bass in Quitman

Trophy catch from Texas waters

Four white crappie fish caught while fishing in Quitman

Morning bites on Lake Fork

5 white crappie fish caught in Quitman

Topwater hits never get old

Fishing trip in Quitman with 2 people

Lake Fork action never stops

Largemouth bass caught by two people in Quitman

Bass fishing done right

Largemouth bass caught in TX

Another Lake Fork giant

Angler holding a large largemouth bass caught while fishing in Quitman

Calm waters, wild catches

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Double the Action: Bass & Crappie on Lake Fork

Get ready for a full day of non-stop fishing action on legendary Lake Fork! Captain Ryker Holmes knows this lake like the back of his hand, and he's itching to put you on some monster largemouth bass and slab crappie. We're talking about the chance to land a once-in-a-lifetime bass in the morning, then switch gears to fill your cooler with tasty crappie in the afternoon. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip's got something for everyone. So grab your hat and sunscreen - it's time to hit the water!

What to Expect on the Water

Your day starts bright and early as we launch the boat and head to Ryker's top-secret bass holes. We'll be using top-notch gear and the latest techniques to target those trophy largemouth that Lake Fork is famous for. As the day heats up, we'll switch tactics and move to some prime crappie spots. Ryker's got all the know-how to help you rack up impressive numbers of both species. This ain't no lazy day on the pond - we're talking about real, heart-pounding fishing action from sunup to sundown. Just remember to bring your own grub and drinks to keep your energy up throughout the day. And don't forget that camera - you're gonna want proof of the whoppers you'll be reeling in!

Techniques & Gear Breakdown

For the bass fishing portion, we'll be using a mix of techniques depending on the conditions. Expect to throw some big swimbaits, work soft plastics through submerged timber, or maybe even try some topwater action if the bite is right. Ryker's got a fully rigged bass boat with all the latest electronics to help us pinpoint the fish. When we switch to crappie, we'll likely be using live minnows or jigs, either spider-rigging or casting around brush piles. The gear's all provided, so you don't need to worry about bringing your own rods or tackle. Just come ready to learn and put some serious bend in those poles!

Species You'll Want to Hook

Largemouth Bass: Lake Fork is world-renowned for its trophy largemouth, and for good reason. These fish grow big and mean here, with many topping the 10-pound mark. Spring is prime time for giants, but you can catch quality bass year-round. They love to hang around submerged timber, points, and drop-offs. When you hook into a Lake Fork lunker, hold on tight - these fish know how to fight!

Crappie: Don't let their size fool you - these "papermouths" are some of the tastiest fish swimming. Lake Fork's crappie population is healthy and abundant, with many fish in the 1-2 pound range. They tend to school up, so when you find 'em, you can often catch a bunch. Spring and fall are peak seasons, but winter can be red-hot too if you know where to look. Crappie love to hang around brush piles and bridge pilings, and they're a blast to catch on light tackle.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Lake Fork isn't just another fishing hole - it's a bucket-list destination for serious anglers. The chance to land a true trophy bass keeps folks coming back year after year. But it's not just about the big fish - it's the whole package. The lake's diverse structure, from flooded timber to deep creek channels, creates the perfect habitat for both bass and crappie to thrive. And let's not forget about the hospitality - Texas charm is alive and well here. Whether you're swapping stories at the local bait shop or chowing down on some post-fishing BBQ, you'll feel right at home.

Top Catches This Season

While every day on the water is different, Lake Fork has been on fire lately. Ryker's been putting clients on some absolute tanks, including several bass over 8 pounds and a few pushing double digits. The crappie fishing has been lights out too, with limits of slab-sized fish becoming the norm rather than the exception. Of course, past success doesn't guarantee future results, but let's just say the odds are in your favor for some memorable catches on this trip.

Time to Book Your Spot

Listen, if you're still on the fence about this trip, let me lay it out straight: You're getting a full day on one of the best bass lakes in the country, guided by a local pro who knows every nook and cranny. Plus, you're doubling your fun (and your potential dinner) by targeting crappie too. It's like getting two trips for the price of one! Spots with Captain Ryker fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. So if you're ready for a day of non-stop fishing action and the chance at both trophy bass and tasty crappie, don't wait. Get your deposit in now and circle that date on your calendar. Trust me, your future self will thank you when you're reeling in the fish of a lifetime or showing off a cooler full of slabs. Let's make it happen!

Customer Review

Learn more about the species

Crappie

Crappie are the perfect "numbers fish" on Lake Fork, typically running 10-14 inches and weighing up to a pound. These tasty panfish love to school up around brush piles, fallen trees, and other structure in 8-15 feet of water. Spring is prime time as they move shallow to spawn, but fall can be excellent too. Crappie are a blast on light tackle and make for some of the best eating around. We often find them suspended, so fishing at different depths is key. My go-to rig is a small jig under a slip bobber - lets you cover the water column. Experiment with colors, but white and chartreuse are hard to beat. Once you find a school, you can often catch 'em one after another. Just remember to keep your movements subtle - crappie have excellent eyesight and can spook easily in clear water.

Crappie

Largemouth Bass

Largemouth bass are the kings of Lake Fork, typically ranging from 2-10 pounds with some real monsters out there. These aggressive predators love to hang around structure - submerged trees, weed beds, and docks. Spring and fall are prime times when they're actively feeding in shallower water. Anglers love 'em for their explosive strikes and powerful fights. Nothing beats the thrill of a big bass smashing a topwater lure at dawn. To up your odds, try working a plastic worm slowly along the bottom near drop-offs. These fish have a knack for holding tight to cover, so accuracy is key. Patience pays off - let that worm sit still for a few seconds before giving it a twitch. When you feel that telltale "thump," set the hook hard and hang on!

Largemouth Bass

About the phoenix

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 2

Manufacturer Name: yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 70

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 225

Hop aboard Captain Ryker Holmes' well-equipped fishing vessel for a day of angling excitement on Lake Fork. This spacious boat comfortably accommodates two guests, providing ample room to cast lines and reel in your catches. With a sturdy hull and reliable motor, you'll smoothly navigate the lake's waters in search of prime fishing spots. The deck is outfitted with top-notch fishing gear, including rods, reels, and tackle suited for both largemouth bass and crappie. There's plenty of storage for your personal items and coolers, ensuring you stay refreshed throughout the day. As you cruise from one hotspot to another, you'll appreciate the boat's stability and the captain's skillful handling, allowing you to focus on the fish rather than the ride. Whether you're battling bass or finessing crappie, this vessel serves as the perfect platform for a productive and enjoyable day on Lake Fork.
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Book a Fishing Trip with top Lake Fork Fishing Guide Ryker Holmes and target trophy Largemouth Bass in East Texas! Trips offered Year-round.

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