Match the bait or lure to the fish and water
Natural bait, live bait, and artificial lures behave differently in current and at different depths. Start with the species you're after and the place you'll fish, then choose a hook and offering that aren't oversized for the job.
Pack a few useful choices
If you bring live bait, think about the bait source, storage, and aeration. With any rig, consider snags, casting room, water clarity, and unwanted catches. A lure may make it easier to keep moving, while natural bait brings its own handling and cleanup.
Baitfish, net, and protected-species rules can change by place and season. Check the current Texas fishing regulations before collecting or using bait. Take discarded line, bait, and packaging with you, then connect your choice to a fishing place and species profile.