Trevor Huval, an Erath angler, reveals his secrets to a bountiful catch at Lake Arthur, a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts in Southwest Louisiana.
As the cold winter months bid farewell to waterfowl hunting, Huval's passion shifts to the aquatic realm, where he pursues sac-a-lait and bass. With a lifetime of fishing experience, he generously shares his expertise, encouraging fellow anglers to explore the region's potential.
But here's where it gets interesting: Huval's arsenal includes two unconventional lures. One is a hair jig crafted by local legend Daniel Mire, owner of D&M Custom Jigs. He skillfully maneuvers this black and chartreuse creation around cypress knees, a technique that yields remarkable results. The other is a monkey milk-colored soft plastic minnow, which he tightlines without a cork, claiming it's a 'very, very good bait.'
And this is the part that might surprise you: February is prime time for sac-a-lait fishing, according to Huval. As the water temperature reaches 65-68 degrees, he consistently catches egg-laden females, often in shallow waters of 2-5 feet. He targets specific areas, such as the south end of the lake and cypress tree-lined points near canal mouths, where the action is non-stop.
A controversial opinion: While many anglers avoid the Mermentau River due to its muddy waters, Huval insists it's a treasure trove for sac-a-lait. He shares a personal record of a 2-pound, 8-ounce catch, mounted as a testament to the river's potential. But is it the lure or the angler's skill that makes the difference? That's a question worth exploring.
Huval's success extends to the river's laydowns, where surprisingly, the newer deadfalls yield the best results. He also recommends Texas-rigged black and blue Senkos for bass, a technique that has consistently paid off. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries' recent stocking of Floridas in Lake Arthur further enhances the bass fishing experience.
So, is it the lures, the angler's skill, or the region's natural bounty that makes for a great fishing adventure? Perhaps it's a combination of all three. What do you think? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
