Erath Angler's Guide to Catching Fish at Lake Arthur
When winter's waterfowl hunting season winds down, an Erath outdoorsman, Trevor Huval, shifts his focus to the tranquil waters of Lake Arthur in Southwest Louisiana. Huval's expertise lies in catching sac-a-lait and bass during February, a month he highly recommends for anglers seeking a rewarding fishing experience.
Huval's success with sac-a-lait is attributed to his strategic use of artificial lures. He employs two go-to options: a hair jig crafted by Daniel Mire of Maurice, known as D&M Custom Jigs, and a monkey milk-colored Bobby Garland Baby Shad soft plastic. Huval's innovative approach involves tightlining without a cork, showcasing his adaptability and resourcefulness.
The key to Huval's success is understanding the behavior of sac-a-lait. He targets canals or ditches on the lake's south end, particularly cypress tree-lined points near the canal mouths. Huval's keen observation skills allow him to identify the ideal water temperature, around 65-68 degrees, when full females start laying eggs. He describes a thrilling scenario where he can catch up to 25 sac-a-lait in just 10 minutes, highlighting the consistency of the bite.
The Mermentau River, despite its muddy reputation, holds surprises. Huval has experienced successful fishing days on the lower river north of Louisiana Highway 14. He acknowledges the river's potential, noting that it harbors large sac-a-lait, with his personal record being a 2-pound, 8-ounce catch. Huval's preference for clearer water is evident, but he respects the sac-a-lait's adaptability to the muddy conditions.
In addition to sac-a-lait, Lake Arthur offers bass fishing opportunities. Huval recommends a Texas-rigged black/blue Senko under a ¼-ounce pegged weight, a technique that has proven successful for him. The lake's recent stocking with Florida bass further enhances its fishing prospects.
Huval's fishing journey began at a young age, guided by his parrain, Ryan Huval, who introduced him to the joys of both fishing and hunting. His passion for the sport and his dedication to sharing his expertise make him a valuable resource for fellow anglers seeking guidance in catching fish at Lake Arthur.
