Fishing At Cooper Lake In 2024
AKA: Jim Chapman Lake and Cooper Reservoir
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, blue catfish, black crappie, white crappie, bluegill, white bass, hybrid striped bass and bowfin at Jim Chapman Lake in East Texas.
Known for dandy white bass and hybrid striped bass fishing, Cooper Lake (Jim Chapman Lake) is a 19,000-acre lake in the northeast part of the state, at Cooper, TX. Crappie, catfish, big bluegill, largemouth bass and bowfin also reside in these waters. Fall and summer are good times to pursue schooling white bass and hybrid stripers, as they chase schools of bait fish around points and submerged structure.
The purpose of this page is to deliver an overview of this lake, the fishing options, and area amenities. Our goal is to provide info to first time visitors, as well as beginner and novice anglers. We gathered details from personal experience, numerous trusted websites that each offer select bits of information, and videos of fishing activity on the lake. These websites include the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, marinas at the lake, campgrounds, boat rental agencies and others. By consolidating this information to one page it allows visitors to see the entire picture, all in one place.
Cooper Lake, located in Northeast Texas, is a fantastic destination for fishing enthusiasts seeking a memorable angling experience. The lake offers excellent fishing opportunities, attracting anglers of all levels. Largemouth bass is the prized target for many fishermen at Cooper Lake. With its submerged vegetation, boat docks, and rocky structures, the lake provides an ideal habitat for bass, making it an appealing spot for bass fishing enthusiasts. Anglers can also find other popular species such as catfish, crappie, white bass, and sunfish, ensuring a diverse and exciting fishing adventure.
Lake Video
In both warmer and cooler weather the baitfish moves deeper and the predator fish follow. Boat launch ramps on the northeast and southeast corners of the lake facilitate launching pleasure boats, pontoon boats, fishing boats and kayaks or canoes. Numerous areas around the lake provide access to sections of the 31 miles of shoreline available for fishing from the bank.
Primary fish species residing in Cooper Reservoir
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Jim Chapman Lake Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: NEARBY
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is also a favored activity on Cooper Lake, as the lake's vast surface area and calm waters make it an ideal setting for water-based fun. Whether it's leisurely cruising, water skiing, or fishing from a boat, there is plenty of room for boaters to enjoy their preferred activities. Cooper Lake features boat ramps and marinas, ensuring easy access for boating enthusiasts. The scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere of the lake create a delightful environment for boating adventures.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Gull's Bluff Boat Ramp - South
Located mid lake, south side, in Cooper Lake State Park South, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.
Honey Creek Boat Ramp South
Located mid lake, south side, off Honey Creek Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
John's Creek Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off County Road 1528, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Lone Pine Boat Ramp
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, in Cooper Lake State Park North, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.
Tira Boat Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, off County Road 4779, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Click here for a Texas Fishing License.
Camping is a popular pastime at Cooper Lake, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy a peaceful retreat. The lake offers several campgrounds, providing options for both tent and RV camping. Campers can relax amidst the serene ambiance, enjoy hiking and biking trails, and spend evenings by campfires beneath the starry sky. Camping at Cooper Lake allows visitors to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with the tranquility of the outdoors.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Cooper Lake State Park - Doctors Creek Unit Campground - 903 395-3100
Cooper Lake State Park - South Sulphur Unit Campground - 903 945-5256
Cooper Lake TX Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Jim Chapman Lake
Cooper Lake State Park
Doctors Creek Unit
1664 FM 1529 South
Cooper, TX 75432
903 395-3100
South Sulphur Unit
1690 FM 3505
Sulphur Springs, TX 75482
903 945-5256
Fishing lakes in each state.
Cooper Lake in East Texas.
TEXAS
Information about fishing lakes in East Texas
Jim Chapman Lake offers abundant crappie, white bass and hybrid striped bass fishing in East TX.