From beginner fishermen and -women to the most seasoned, the reviews are consistent: “It never gets old fishing on Sabine Lake.” Why? Sabine Lake represents a chance to get away from the crowds, a place where anglers can spread out to discover their own little nooks and “honey holes,” that they return to again and again to chase some of the finest fishing the Gulf South has to offer.
Straddling 70,000 acres along the Texas/Louisiana state line, Sabine Lake extends 14 miles long and seven miles wide—plenty of waterway for anglers to explore at the intersection of the Sabine and Neches Rivers. This estuary system includes saltwater and brackish water habitat, meaning anglers can target redfish, flounder and speckled trout in both Sabine Lake and Keith Lake, and throughout the myriad bayous and marshes in between.
Photo courtesy of Dave Roberts
In spring, fly-fishing is a popular way to target redfish on Sabine Lake
Anglers have plenty of options to choose from: whether shore fishing (free without a license at the Sea Rim State Park), from kayak or boat anywhere in the lakes, from lighted fishing piers (like this one on Pleasure Island) that offer both daytime and nighttime fishing and from the area’s many jetties, which are a crowd favorite.
Calvin Carter
Speckled trout taken while pier fishing from Pleasure Island
“Jetties are very popular and they’re always an easy place to catch a fish. Everyone agrees it’s a sure thing and it never gets old,” said Callie Summerlin, marketing director for the Port Arthur Convention and Visitors Bureau. “It’s easy for anglers to find their sweet spot, that they return to month after month, or year after year, because there is so much room. It’s spread out and you’re not forced into congested areas like you might be in other bay areas.”
Curt Edgerton
Beach casting at Sea Rim State Park
Sea Rim State Park participates in a Free Loaner Tackle Program, so park goers only need to bring their own bait. When the fishing’s done, you can continue to enjoy the park overnight, with accommodation for RV-ing, beach-side tent camping, or by renting the park’s 6-person Cabin.
Kayak fishermen can take advantage of Sabine Lake's extensive system of paddling trails.
Kayakers can get to grips with the bay system’s extensive paddling trails, which connect to the Gulf itself, while newcomers and experienced anglers alike can enjoy an inshore guided fishing trip or an offshore charter adventure.
No matter where you choose to cast, there are countless opportunities to find peace, enjoy fresh air, take in the beautiful surroundings and reel in plenty of fish. Find more in Port Arthur’s free fishing guide, available for digital download or mailed directly to you.
