Fork is best known as an illustrious fishery, one of its best kept secrets is it fantastic duck hunting. With its shallow coves and abundant aquatic vegetation, Lake Fork attracts and sustains an excessive wealth of waterfowl. Where else, but on Lake Fork, can you attain a limit of ducks in the morning and harness a double-digit lunker in the afternoon?

EAGLE FEST

The 74th Legislature of the State of Texas passed a resolution declaring Rains County "The Eagle Capital of Texas" as an effort to protect and preserve the American Bald Eagle. The
proclamation notes the importance of Lake Fork, Lake Tawakoni and surrounding areas as nesting and feeding grounds for the Bald Eagles as well as many other species of birds, both regional and migratory. Rains County has recorded 260 different species and varieties of wild birds. However, two of the most fascinating and thrilling species to see in our area are the Bald Eagles and Smith's Longspur.

THE FISH

Lake Fork- "Big Bass Capitol of Texas" - a bass fisherman's dream. Its 27,000 surface acres contain vast amounts of standing timber with ideal surroundings to sustain big fish. Combined with Lake Fork's aquatic vegetation, underwater creeks, lakes, ridges and humps, it's easy to see why, year after year, Lake Fork out-produces all other Texas lakes combined. Of the record largemouth bass catches in Texas, 18 out of the top 25 came from Lake Fork, with the average weight from Lake Fork being 16.74 pounds! In addition to trophy bass, Lake Fork offers some of the best crappie fishing in the country. The state record black crappie-at just less than four pounds- came from Fork. Bream fishing is also very good, and the catfishing is nothing short of phenomenal. In fact, catfishing is so predictably good that an annual, summer catfish tournament has become a growing tradition. Each July, the Lake Fork Sportsman's Association host the Yantis Catfish Classic and in October host their yearly Crappie Tournament.

THE GOLFING

Avid golfers can choose from two challenging golf courses, each with a scenic view of the lake. Lake Fork Golf Course is an eighteen-hole course designed for mid-handicappers, with shorter challenging fairways and larger greens. It has been voted the "Most Improved Golf Course in East Texas" by the E.T.G.A. It is located on the beautiful west banks of Lake Fork. The Links at Land's End is another spectacular addition to Lake Fork. Holes 6 through 14 wind through the trees on a peninsula, surrounded only by water and the abundant Lake Fork wildlife. It has been ranked in the top 50 golf courses in Texas!

THE SHOPPING

Many shopping opportunities are available through a number of businesses. Enjoy shopping in the charming Winnsboro downtown and historic Mineola, or take a weekend trip to the famous 1st Monday Trade Days, one of the largest shopping venues in the country. Sulphur Springs is also home of the Factory Stores of America Outlet Mall. Each of our area cities have unique dining places to complement a perfect day of shopping.

THE ENTERTAINMENT

Lake Fork is renowned for its incredible fishing, but the surrounding areas also provide many educational and entertaining attractions. Jim Hogg City Park, Quitman, offers insight into Wood County history. Winnsboro, Mineola and Sulphur Springs are great places to enjoy music and the performing arts. Nature lovers will delight in the Mineola Nature Preserve on the Sabine River and the Rains County Eagle Fest. In Sulphur Springs the Southwest Dairy Museum and Learning Center has exhibits that depict all facets of milk production and also houses an old fashioned soda bar where visitors can enjoy ice cream treats and light lunches. It's just a short drive from Lake Fork to Tyler, where the Tyler Rose Museum is located, and Kilgore to see the Kilgore Oil Museum. Sportsmen will not want to miss a trip to the Freshwater Fisheries Center in Athens, showcasing aquatic life and sport fishing in Texas. The Lake Fork area has a number of unique festivals and events that thrill local residents and visitors each year. See the Calendar of Events section in this publication for a complete listing of festivals and events.