Fishing Lake J B Thomas

AKA: Snyder Reservoir

Most Popular Fish
Lake J B Thomas Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Local Fishing Guides
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Lake J B Thomas, TX

Popular Fish Species Lake J B Thomas, TX

Lake J B Thomas Popular Fish - Channel Catfish

Channel Catfish Fishing

Lake J B Thomas is known for great catfish fishing, especially channel catfish. For weekend anglers, most any rod and reel will work for catching channel catfish, as long as the line is strong enough. For serious catfish enthusiasts, using the right equipment enhances success, especially when you hook one of the big boys. A medium action, to medium-heavy action rod is ideal, in the 6' to 7' range. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with popular catfish baits on at least 10-pound line. Use sharp hooks with bait holders on the shank, or circle hooks for live bait. The state record channel catfish is over 36 pounds, and Lake J B Thomas holds some pretty big ones. Flathead catfish and blue catfish also reside in the lake and fishing for them is often good as well. Night fishing for catfish often delivers better results than daytime fishing. Fishing for channel catfish is often most productive around any kind of structure in the area. In Spring channel catfish migrate toward incoming water, so stay up river away from the main lake. In early summer look for rocky banks, the bigger the rocks the better. In summer and winter deeper structure is where to look. The river end of the lake is often the area where the bigger catfish are caught. Road beds, creek channels and rocky points are all good places to begin.

Lake J B Thomas Popular Fish - Largemouth Bass

Largemouth Bass Fishing

Lake J B Thomas is considered a very good bass fishing lake, with occasional monsters being caught. Anglers are catching bass in good numbers with largemouth bass in the 4 to 6-pound range showing up with some regularity. A history of careful fisheries management by the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department has helped to maintain a thriving bass fishery. Recent results by bass fishing tournament participants, attest to the fact that fishing for largemouth bass has been quite rewarding, with an occasional bass over 6 pounds being weighed in. In Lake J B Thomas, bass often move shallow and become fairly aggressive when they are in a feeding mood. If they seem disinterested in your presentations, try slowing down and use smaller, lighter baits. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, drop shot rigs, big worms, jigs and spoons are good options. In winter, spend your time fishing deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time.

Lake J B Thomas Popular Fish - White Bass

White Bass Fishing

After several very successful spawn years, white bass are flourishing in Lake J B Thomas and anglers should expect some great fishing this year. White bass are aggressive, hard-fighting and just plain fun to catch. When fishing for white bass, the average fish is typically in the one- to two-pound range. These schooling fish tend to roam around the lake looking for ideal water conditions and baitfish. Look for them to generally be in 15 to 35 feet of water, whether they are hovering around the bottom or swimming in open water. Fish finders are the best way to locate big schools of white bass. Fish near the bottom at night with live bait. In spring, once the water temperature rises into the mid sixties, they move shallow into the backs of coves and creek channels to spawn. When white bass chase schools of bait near the surface, spinners, spoons and small crank baits work well. At this time anglers can fish from shore and often do quite well. Use lures that imitate baitfish, including small crankbaits, small jerkbaits, jigs and spoons.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, blue catfish, white crappie, bluegill and white bass at Lake J B Thomas in West Texas.

Lake J B Thomas Fishing Video

When full, Lake J B Thomas (J B Thomas Reservoir) is a 7,300-acre lake in the west-central part of the state, 8 miles west of Ira, TX. The lake level is often low, and can be hazardous for boat travel due to large rock outcroppings and stumps in the lake. Navigation safety practices are crucial here.

Lake J B Thomas, located in West Texas, is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts seeking a memorable angling experience. The lake offers excellent fishing opportunities, attracting anglers of all levels. Largemouth bass is the prized target for many fishermen at Lake J B Thomas. With its abundant structure, submerged vegetation, and rocky shorelines, the lake provides an ideal habitat for bass, making it a haven for both recreational anglers and tournament participants. Anglers can also target other popular species such as catfish, crappie, and sunfish, ensuring a diverse and exciting fishing adventure.

Bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish and white bass are prevalent here, but fishing can be tough due to low-water levels and the hazards. Launching can be primitive at times.

Primary fish species residing in Lake J B Thomas

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake J B Thomas Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: NEARBY
RV Hookups: NEARBY
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NO
Restaurant: NEARBY

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a favored activity on Lake J B Thomas, as the lake's calm waters and scenic surroundings make it an ideal setting for water-based fun. Whether it's leisurely cruising, water skiing, or simply enjoying a boat ride, there is ample space for boaters to indulge in their favorite activities. Lake J B Thomas features boat ramps and marinas, ensuring easy access for boating enthusiasts. The serene ambiance and picturesque landscapes of the lake create a delightful environment for boating adventures.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Road 3234 Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, at the south end of the J B Thomas Dam, there are two one-lane, concrete ramps with unimproved, gravel parking.

Fishing Guides On Lake J B Thomas

Slaunched Guide Service - bass

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

Fishing License

Click here for a Texas Fishing License.

Camping is a popular pastime at Lake J B Thomas, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area and enjoy a peaceful retreat. The lake provides camping areas and facilities, accommodating both tent and RV campers. Campers can relax amidst the serene ambiance, enjoy nature walks, and spend evenings by campfires beneath the starry sky. Camping at Lake J B Thomas allows visitors to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with the tranquility of the outdoors.