Hi folks Jason Barber here with the kingscreekadventures.com fishing and lake report for Cedar Creek Lake. The lake level is at 5.7' low and falling and the water temps are falling as well creeping down into the 50 degree range with the latest cold snap. The clarity is still not bad with the lack of rains that have plagued us all. The winter patterns should lock in early this year so lets get started!
The catfish are in deep and shallow water and are biting for sure. Try shallow on the north end near points tree lines and cormorant roosting areas. Fresh cutbait is a must and the bigger the better if you want big fish and stay with more normal sized bait if you are wanting eating sized fish. Anchor in 2 to 8' of water and drift in 8 to 15' while fishing the upper end of the lake. As for the lower end fish all depths from 15 to 35' or more with big tackle and fresh big cut bait drifting the mainlake.
Crappie are steadily moving deeper and should be targeted near mainlake cover in 16 to 30' and even deeper as the cold sets in. Jigs and minnows and an extra shot of patience will be needed for this bite. Just stay near deep water and look for brush and cover near significant bottom contours and you should find some fish.
As for largemouth try any docks with decent water on them and also any rocks you can find. Slow rolling spinnerbaits, jigs and crankbaits as well as suspending jerkbaits can all produce. Brushpile fish should not be ruled out, you will just have to fish slow and deliberately.
Hybrids and sandies are locking into a wintertime pattern that I truly love. Go deep and find schools of bait on your electronics in 25 to 45' of water and present small soft plastic shad immitations near the bottom in a motionless fashion that has been classified as dead sticking but the action that follows is anything but. Try bumping the boat for some added noise and vibration which will usually get the fish to take a closer look at what you have to offer and deffinately put more fish in the boat for you.
Thanks as always for taking time to read my report and don't forget we offer some great fishing opportunities in the winter months, you will be very surprised at the numbers and size of the winter catches. Duck hunting is another option for all of you waterfowlers out ther, just let me know when you are ready to book a trip or purchase a gift certificate for the holidays for the outdoors lovers in your family. You can reach me at 903-603-2047 or 903-887-7896