Fishing at Hickory Springs Lake, Polk County, Texas

• Overview

  Hickory Springs Lake lies within the bounds of Polk County, Texas. What surrounds it is pine and hardwood. The water measures roughly 12 acres, so nothing here is far from anything else. For supplies, Woodville is 14 miles out. It is 55 miles to Beaumont, the nearest city. The nearest edge is a long way off, so local rules apply throughout.

• Where to Fish on Hickory Springs Lake

  No figure exists for depth, so let the water show you. The arms fish better than the open middle whenever the water is up. Standing timber shows when the level drops, and fish sit against it. Documented catches and surveys in the area cover dusky darter, largemouth bass, slough darter and warmouth. Take it as evidence of what swims here, not a promise for one session. The near bank of Hickory Springs Lake is often the one people ignore.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Climate normals give 82°F for July and 48°F for January. Cold never closes this one. March through May is the strongest run, with autumn a second stretch. Autumn steadies things again once the heat lets go. It holds true on Hickory Springs Lake more years than not. A rising level usually fishes better than a falling one.

• Tackle & Baits

  There is no clear statement anywhere on who can fish it. Mapping records no facilities at all near this water. 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. Some ground is open by custom rather than by right, so tread carefully. Failing this one, try Lake Tomahawk Number 2, 1.3 miles away. Rules at Hickory Springs Lake are worth checking on the day.