Oil City, LA – After weather delays and schedule changes, the American Bass Anglers Pro League Division 13 (Louisiana) will officially kick off its 2025 season on Saturday, May 3rd, at Caddo Lake, launching from Earl G. Williamson Park in Oil City. (Anglers can register here)
Originally, Caddo Lake was scheduled to host the season opener on February 15th. However, in the days leading up to the event, the lake was already above normal levels, and forecasts warned of high winds and possible tornadoes. A massive storm system impacted much of the central United States that week, forcing the cancellation of many tournaments—including ABA and other organizations—from Sam Rayburn in Texas to the Carolinas.
Following the postponement, the Caddo Lake event was moved to June 1st on the Red River, making Cross Lake the new season opener, followed by two events on the Red River in Bossier City on May 31st and June 1st.
But thanks to overwhelming interest from anglers, the story didn’t end there.
Caddo Lake, a 25,000-acre body of water spanning the Louisiana-Texas border, is known for its scenic beauty and outstanding bass fishing. It’s an internationally protected wetland under the Ramsar Convention and home to one of the largest flooded cypress forests in the United States. Anglers from Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas, and even Mississippi made the trip to fish it in 2024—and many were eager to return.
“I got a lot of calls from anglers asking if we could get back on Caddo Lake,” said Tournament Manager Chris Wayand. “They loved the experience last year. I checked to see if Earl G. Williamson Park was available on May 3rd—and it was. I submitted the request, and we got approved.”
Because the tournament date was already on the calendar for a different lake, anglers didn’t have to adjust their plans—only the location changed.
With this update, Caddo Lake will now serve as the official season opener, and anticipation is high as anglers prepare to return to one of the region’s most iconic bass fisheries.
About Caddo Lake
Caddo Lake, spanning the Texas-Louisiana border, is renowned for its sprawling 25,000-acre expanse of bayous, sloughs, and one of the largest flooded cypress forests in the United States. Recognized as an internationally protected wetland under the Ramsar Convention, the lake boasts a rich biodiversity, making it a haven for anglers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Current Fishing Conditions (April 2025)
Water Levels & Access
As of mid-April, Caddo Lake is experiencing elevated water levels, approximately 2.4 feet above normal pool, leading to flooding conditions. Several private boat ramps are closed, and the Caddo Lake State Park boat ramp, canoe rentals, and Mill Pond camping area are also closed due to flooding. Anglers are advised to check ramp statuses before traveling and exercise caution due to floating debris and strong currents.
Water Temperature & Clarity
The water temperature is around 67°F, with stained clarity. These conditions are typical for the spring season, supporting active fish behavior, especially during the spawning period.
Bass Fishing
The bass spawn is in full swing. Anglers have reported success targeting shallow flooded grass, bushes, and small trees using frogs or flukes. Grass mats can be productive areas, especially when punched with appropriate lures. If grass mats are absent, focusing on trees in 2-3 feet of water at normal pool levels is recommended, as bass may hold tight to these structures when water levels recede. Effective baits include Texas-rigged tube jigs or pit bosses in junebug or black and blue colors, senkos, and swimbaits, particularly for males guarding fry.
About American Bass Anglers
American Bass Anglers is dedicated to organizing affordable, local tournaments for weekend anglers while offering opportunities for individual angler advancement. To learn more about American Bass Anglers, including the Team Series, American Fishing Tour, American Couples Series, annual Military Team Bass Tournament, ABA Team Series, Top 150 Solo Tour, and Professional League, all presented by Caymas Boats, please visit www.americanbassanglers.com or call (256) 232-0406.
American Bass Anglers is proud to be sponsored by Caymas Boats, Mercury Marine, T-H Marine, Power Pole, WattCycle Batteries, Hotel Planner.com, and LurePartsOnline.com.
For more information, visit www.americanbassanglers.com or call (256) 232-0406
