Weekly Report: Brazos River Bridge - 3/17/2024

  

Located along HWY 6 just outside of Waco, TX:  

Structure & Underwater Topography:

This section of the northern Brazos River is dominated by natural shorelines, including deep mud, clay/silt, and sand and gravel flats.

Submerged timber and flooded terrestrial vegetation add to the diversity of natural habitat for fish, while man-made habitats such as submerged pilings and concrete bridge supports further provide essential shelter from fluctuating currents.

The limited residential and commercial development along the riverbanks contributes to the preservation of natural security and cover for fish populations, allowing gamefish to experience a far less pressured environment. 

Targeting Game Fish:

               Largemouth bass fishing is at its best in March and April. Concrete pilons serve as protection from strong currents. 1 – 2 ft downstream are excellent places to look for spawning bass at this time of year. Chartreuse spinner baits and black/blue or black/chartreuse jig and pork combinations are the preferred baits, casting just outside of the current break has proven successful. Best catches are usually around standing timber and submerged pilons.

             Catfish are readily caught and have been very productive at this location. Using cut shad on a 4/0 circle hook attached to the bottom of a 3-foot, 40lb monofilament leader and sliding 4 oz surf weight is sure to produce large sized fish. 

            TPWD reports recent minnow fingerling stocking around the 6000 mark (2016), providing ample food supply for large predators. Furthermore, while water clarity along the Brazos remains a permanent challenge for anglers, clarity (weather permitting) along this calmer section of river has been marked at roughly 2 – 3 feet on calm days.