Ever wondered how some anglers consistently reel in a bounty of fish while others struggle to get a bite? Meet Trevor Huval, an Erath outdoorsman who swaps his waterfowl hunting gear for fishing rods once winter’s hunting season wraps up. Every February, he heads to Lake Arthur in Southwest Louisiana, where he’s mastered the art of catching sac-a-lait (crappie) and bass. But here’s where it gets interesting: his techniques and insights might just change the way you approach freshwater fishing.
Huval, a lifelong angler who’s explored the region’s waterways—including the Mermentau River—swears by February as the prime month for sac-a-lait. Why? Because these fish move into shallower waters (2 feet or less) to spawn, making them more accessible. But this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about the season; it’s about the where and how. Huval’s go-to spots are the cypress tree-lined canals on the south end of the lake, where he’s found consistent action year after year.
Controversial take alert: While many anglers avoid muddy waters, Huval argues that the Mermentau River—often dismissed for its murky conditions—is a hidden gem. “A lot of people overlook the Mermentau because it’s so muddy all the time,” he says. “But the sac-a-lait are used to it. It’s the fishermen who struggle.” Last year, he landed his personal best: a 2-pound, 8-ounce sac-a-lait that now hangs on his wall. So, is muddy water really a dealbreaker, or is it just an excuse? Let’s discuss in the comments.
When it comes to gear, Huval keeps it simple but strategic. His two favorite lures are a black/chartreuse hair jig from D&M Custom Jigs (fished about 1 foot below a cork) and a monkey milk-colored Bobby Garland Baby Shad soft plastic, which he tightlines. “Sometimes they prefer the jig, sometimes the cork,” he explains. “It’s all about reading the water and the fish’s mood.”
Here’s another pro tip: focus on fresh laydowns along the riverbanks. Huval’s found that newer deadfalls attract more fish, though he admits, “I’m not sure why—I always thought older ones would be better.” For bass, he relies on a Texas-rigged black/blue Senko under a pegged ¼-ounce weight, a setup that’s proven beaucoup successful.
And this is the part that might surprise you: Lake Arthur’s bass fishing is booming, thanks to recent stocking efforts by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. “They take care of that place,” Huval says. “Bass fishing is good there.”
So, whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, Huval’s advice is clear: don’t underestimate the power of timing, location, and adaptability. Now, here’s a question for you: Do you avoid fishing in muddy waters, or do you see it as an opportunity to outsmart the fish? Share your thoughts below—let’s spark some friendly debate!
