Lake Pinkston

http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/fish/infish/lakes/pinkston/lake_id.htm

Located north of Hwy 7 near Excellsor ISD in Aiken, Texas, 22 miles east of Nacogdoches and 10 west of Center, Texas. This 560 acre reservoir was built in 1976 operated by the City of Center. No facilities are provided and only 2 boat ramps. Most of the timber was never removed making boating hazardous. The county road on the east end of the lake isolates about 100 acres of water connected by a large culvert big enough for small boats.  Florida largemouth were introduced in 1977 and have produced many trophy bass including one state record of 16.90 pounds in 1986. Many bass over 10 pounds are taken along with 2 to 5 pound regulars. Best fishing is Feb to May during the spawning season. Deep clear waters offer black and white crappie reaching 2 pounds (Mar-May), bluegill, longear, redear, warmouth and catfish. During the summer and early fall, the lake stratifies and a strong thermocline is present between 12 to 15 feet so fishing should be restricted to less than 15 feet. Consider pencil poppers, Mickey Finn, Black Nose Dace, Whitlock Sheep Shad and Lefty’s Deceiver flies. Elk Hair Caddis in coves in 1 to 5 foot water works well.