If you're planning to head out to the Rio Grande in Texas today, here’s what you can expect for a productive and enjoyable day of fishing.

The weather is looking pleasant with clear skies and temperatures ranging from 68°F to 82°F. Expect light winds, making it ideal for both boat and shore fishing, with no significant precipitation predicted. Sunrise is at around 7:34 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 7:04 PM, giving you ample daylight to fish.

Since the Rio Grande is a river, tidal conditions are not a major factor, but water levels are slightly above normal due to recent rainfall, though they are slowly receding. The water temperature is around 85-88 degrees, and the clarity is slightly stained, especially in areas with recent flooding.

Fishing in the Rio Grande has been good, particularly for those targeting white bass and stripers. Yesterday, anglers reported good catches of these species in the deeper waters. White bass and stripers are actively following shad bait balls, so keep an eye out for those schools. Black bass were also caught on the main lake points, with the early morning shallow bite slowing down but the deep water bite from around 8 AM to 10:45 AM being productive.

For white bass and stripers, use spoons, Sabiki rigs, umbrella rigs, grubs, and small underspins in shad colors. Black bass are biting on Ned Rigs, shaky heads, deep diving suspending crankbaits, and slow dropping finesse baits like wacky worms and flukes. Channel catfish are biting well on cheese bait and cut bait.

Hot spots include the areas around buoys, main lake points, and the section near the dam and the rock lines. The areas around sheer bluffs and ledges are also productive, especially for white bass. Look for the birds and bait balls to locate the fish.

Overall, the conditions are ideal, and with the right lures and bait, you should have a successful day on the Rio Grande. Just remember to keep an eye on those shad schools and be prepared to adjust your fishing strategy as the day progresses.