For October 13, 2024, the Red River in Shreveport is presenting a mixed bag of challenges and opportunities for anglers. Here’s what you need to know:

**Weather and Conditions:**
Today, expect a high of around 78 degrees with partly cloudy skies and a gentle breeze. Sunrise was at 7:23 AM, and sunset will be at 6:43 PM. The weather is ideal for a day on the water, with comfortable temperatures and minimal wind.

**Water Conditions:**
The Red River, thanks to the locks and dams, has stabilized water levels, creating a series of pools that are more like lakes than a traditional river. Water clarity in the main river can be up to 2 or 3 feet, while the backwaters may have visibility of about 1 foot, which is favorable for bass fishing.

**Fish Activity:**
Yesterday saw a decent amount of activity, particularly for bass and catfish. The bass are active, especially in the flooded backwaters and around woody cover. Catfish are also present, with some anglers catching them in the shallower areas.

**Catches:**
Anglers reported catching largemouth bass, with some weighing up to 5 pounds. Catfish, both channel and blue catfish, were also caught, particularly in the areas with submerged structures. The bass bite was sporadic but rewarding, with some anglers reporting multiple catches throughout the day.

**Best Lures and Bait:**
For bass, soft plastic rigs such as drop shots or weedless crayfish are effective, as well as hard-bodied lures like crankbaits and jerk baits. Crayfish, bluegill, and perch patterns are particularly appealing to the bass. For catfish, using cut shad or nightcrawlers around the creek or river channel edges can yield good results.

**Hot Spots:**
One of the best spots is around the pool created by Lock and Dam No. 5, close to Shreveport-Bossier. This area has a mix of submerged structures and woody cover that attract both bass and catfish. Another hot spot is the backwaters near Natchitoches, where the water is generally clearer and the bass are more active.

**Navigation:**
Remember, safe navigation is crucial on the Red River. The channelized river and flooded backwaters can be tricky, especially with the remnants of past floods affecting the terrain. Keep an eye out for submerged structures and be cautious of the rock walls and wing dams.

Overall, the Red River in Shreveport is offering some great fishing opportunities this time of year. With the right lures and a bit of local knowledge, you can have a successful and enjoyable day on the water.