Big Lake near Palestine: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  The Anderson County entry here is Big Lake, in Texas. Beyond the shoreline you have dry hill. It measures about 53 acres, which is a comfortable size for bank fishing. On our Anderson County list it sits near the top for size. Palestine is the closest place, 12 miles off. Beyond it, Elkhart at 16 miles and Fairfield at 19 miles. Rules can differ a short way off, since the county line is near.

• Where to Fish on Big Lake

  Depth is unknown to us, and the shoreline is the better guide. Inflow corners move water, and moving water gathers fish. Rip-rap along the wall holds fish that the open bank never does. Public wildlife records from this area list gizzard shad, channel catfish, blue catfish, flathead catfish and freshwater drum. Local agencies hold the definitive list for this water. At Big Lake the water rewards a slow, careful approach.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Averages move between 46°F in January and 83°F in July. No part of the year shuts this water. The cooler months are the comfortable ones to be out. Autumn steadies things again once the heat lets go. Plan around that when you fish Big Lake. The first warm week of the year changes everything here.

• Tackle & Baits

  We hold no note on access for this one. Access is unmapped, which usually means a farm track and a walk. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Bank access can be seasonal on ground like this. Signs go up and come down, so check on the day. If the gate is shut, Cedar Lake at 1.2 miles is the nearest alternative. Ask locally about Big Lake if anything is unclear.