Freshwater Fishing
Fishing right at the ranch
You can wet a line without leaving the ranch. Spread Oaks features three very different varieties of freshwater fishing – bass near your doorstep, panfish from our scenic waterways, and river or creek catfishing. Freshwater fishing is a great way to fill a couple of hours between activities and another one of Ric Rosser’s over-the-top meals.
The ranch’s five-acre lake complex is located just feet from the lodge and is stocked with both Florida largemouth and hybrid striped bass. Some days are about quantity, with seemingly a hit on every cast, while other days are about quality – some of our fish approach 10 pounds! With its short walk from the lodge and manicured shoreline, it’s a favorite for family activities.
Fishing with nature
For those who want a more remote and scenic experience, we’ll take you to Jennings Lake for panfish on light tackle or a fly rod. This trip is all about plug, lure, and fly placement with a backdrop of nature, including alligators, deer, and uncountable wading and shorebirds.
Looking for something with a little heft?
If you still want it wild but with a fight to remember, we offer the giant cats – blue, channel, and the prized yellow catfish. Their habitat on the ranch is lower Blue Creek and our over five miles of Colorado riverfront. How big are they? Last year, the ranch was regularly hauling in 20 pounders, but a few topped the scales at over 40 pounds. That’s a lot of fish! There are a couple of ways we pursue catfish. One is by setting trotlines – technically limblines – that the ranch guides set, and you and your guests can run them between activities the next day. For the purists, Spread Oaks cats provide a great opportunity to try landing one on light tackle, or even a fly rod.
Book a fishing trip
Book a trip and create a memorable fishing experience. For more information, contact Ged at (346) 333-6321, or by email at info@spreadoaksranch.com.
Hunting & Fishing Licenses
To learn about Texas hunting regulations and purchase licenses, go to: tpwd.texas.gov/regulations/outdoor-annual
To purchase your hunting licenses online, visit: tpwd.texas.gov/regulations/outdoor-annual/licenses
To purchase your hunting license by telephone, please call: 1-800-895-4248 (Monday through Friday).
Questions about any license requirements? Call one of our favorite state game wardens, Alden Mann at 956-500-6273.
Out-of-State License Requirements
Non-Resident Special Hunting License: $48. The best option for DUCK HUNTERS. Required additions/endorsements: Federal Migratory Bird Stamp, State Migratory Bird Stamp, Sandhill crane permit, HIP certification, proof of Hunter Education.
Non-Resident General Hunting License: $300. The best option for DUCK & DEER HUNTERS. Required additions/endorsements: proof of Hunter Education if you hunt only deer. If you intend to hunt waterfowl, then add Federal Migratory Bird Stamp, State Migratory Bird Stamp, Sandhill crane permit, and HIP certification.
Non-Resident Youth License: $7. For under 17 years of age, and both federal and state Migratory Bird stamps (endorsements) are exempt to 16 years of age. After the age of 16, however, federal and state Migratory Bird stamps (endorsements) are required as well as HIP certification and Hunter Education certification.
If you choose to saltwater fish, every non-resident guest must purchase a Non-Resident All Water Fishing package for $68.
Neither ranch hog hunting or ranch freshwater fishing requires licenses.
Texas Resident License Requirements
Resident Super-Combo: $68. While there are several options, the safest option is a Super-Combo. This provides you with all water fishing, all game animals and birds, and includes all game tags.
Required additions/endorsements: Federal Migratory Bird Stamp, State Migratory Bird Stamp, Sandhill crane permit, HIP certification, proof of Hunter Education.
Resident Youth License: $7. For under 17 years of age, both federal and state Migratory Bird stamps (endorsements) are exempt to 16 years of age. After the age of 16, however, federal and state Migratory Bird stamps (endorsements) are required as well as HIP certification and Hunter Education certification.
Neither ranch hog hunting or ranch freshwater fishing requires licenses.
Hunter Education
Texas law required all hunters born after September 2, 1971, to show proof of completing a Hunter Education course. Out of state hunters need only carry proof of same from their resident state.
Hunters between the ages of 9 to 16 without Hunters Education may hunt only if they are be accompanied by a person who is certified.
Hunters 17 or older must have completed a course either online or in person.
There is an option to purchase a one-time Hunter Education deferral ($10) online, but you must be accompanied on your hunt by someone with the certification
Other
Remember that while it is legal to have your license on your phone when waterfowl hunting, by law you need to have migratory bird stamps physically on you. Best practice is to carry your license and ID while engaging in any regulated hunting or fishing activity.
If you intend to hunt game animals during the archery-only season, both non-residents and residents must purchase an Archery Hunting Endorsement.
Disclaimer: Spread Oaks Ranch is providing this information as a courtesy to our guests. It is as accurate as possible. Ultimately, however, the guest is responsible for understanding the regulations and purchase of the required documents for their intended outdoor experience. We have provided links and phone numbers to facilitate this effort.
