Texas Fishing Lakes
Lake-by-lake species, seasonal bite, boat access, and regulations for the biggest fishing lakes in Texas.
Amistad Reservoir
Cedar Creek Reservoir
Choke Canyon Reservoir
Lake Conroe
Falcon Lake (International Falcon Reservoir)
Lake Fork
Lake Kemp
Lake Livingston
O.H. Ivie Reservoir
Lake Palestine
Possum Kingdom Lake
Lake Ray Hubbard
Richland-Chambers Reservoir
Sam Rayburn Reservoir
Lake Tawakoni
Lake Travis
Lake Whitney
More Texas lakes
Tap a lake to open its guide: species, boat launches, bait shops, and size and creel limits.
Amistad ReservoirVal Verde County · 64,900 acres
Amistad Reservoir
A large border reservoir on the Rio Grande northwest of Del Rio, fed by the Devils and Pecos rivers and managed with Mexico. It is best known for big largemouth bass in clear water, with good catfish and white bass fishing too.
Species
Fishery rating out of 5.
Largemouth Bass
Rocky points, drop-offs and flooded brush. Topwater at dawn and dusk, Texas or Carolina rigs deeper at midday.
Channel Catfish
Stinkbait and cutbait in coves and along creek channels.
Blue Catfish
Cutbait along channel edges in the main lake and river arms.
White Bass
Spring spawning runs from late January through March. Rattle traps, jigging spoons or minnows.
Striped Bass
Roam open water chasing bait. Watch for surface schools.
Smallmouth Bass
Rocky banks and bluffs, especially up the river arms.
Boat launches
7 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.
- Diablo EastFeeNPS main ramp near the dam with fish cleaning station. Lake use pass requiredDirections ↗
- Rough Canyon MarinaMarinaNPS ramp and leased marina on the Devils River arm. Slips and pump-out, no gasDirections ↗
- Box CanyonFeeNPS ramp. Often closed at low waterDirections ↗
- Southwinds (U.S. Air Force) MarinaMarinaMilitary and retirees only. Only marine gas on the lakeDirections ↗
- Spur 406RampNPS old-roadway launch, not a true ramp. Launch with cautionDirections ↗
- Spur 454RampNPS old-roadway launch usable at low waterDirections ↗
- Pecos RiverFeeNPS ramp on the Pecos arm with fish cleaning station. Often closed at low waterDirections ↗
Size & creel limits
Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Amistad Reservoir are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department ↗
Bait & tackle nearby
Closest shops to the lake and its boat launches. Call ahead for live bait and hours.
- Amistad MarineNearby7348 US Hwy 90 W, Del Rio(830) 775-0878Directions ↗
Local tips
- Ramp status changes quickly with lake level. Check the NPS boat ramp status page before you tow.
- The border runs down the old Rio Grande channel, marked by buoys RG1 to RG28. You need a Mexico license to fish south of it.
- Thunderstorms and wind build fast on this big, open lake, and gas is only sold at the military marina.
Cedar Creek ReservoirHenderson & Kaufman Counties · 32,623 acres
Cedar Creek Reservoir
A large water supply reservoir about 15 miles west of Athens, owned by the Tarrant Regional Water District. It is known for excellent white bass, hybrid striped bass and catfish fishing.
Species
Fishery rating out of 5.
Hybrid Striped Bass
Follow the birds to find schools chasing shad in open water. Good all year, best in spring.
White Bass
Often schooled with hybrids under feeding birds. Slabs, spoons and small swimbaits work.
Blue Catfish
Cut shad or live bait on the bottom along channel edges and flats.
Channel Catfish
Baited holes and creek mouths. Cut bait and prepared baits.
Largemouth Bass
Weedy back ends of coves in the lower third of the lake.
Crappie
Brush piles, docks and bridge pilings. Minnows and small jigs.
Boat launches
6 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.
- Chamber IslandFreeOn the causeway off TX 334 near Seven Points. Two paved lanes, run by Cedar Creek Lake Organization, donation requestedDirections ↗
- County Public Ramp (Caney Creek bridge)FreeNorth end of the Caney Creek bridge off FM 198. Henderson County, two paved lanes, freeDirections ↗
- Log CabinFeeCity of Log Cabin ramp with four lanes and a fishing pier. Launch feeDirections ↗
- Sandy Shores MarinaMarinaEast shore on Big Chief Drive past Gun Barrel City. Private, launch feeDirections ↗
- Lone Star MarinaMarinaWest shore mid-lake, reached from Kemp via TX 274. Private, launch feeDirections ↗
- Fisherman's WharfMarinaOff CR 1703 near Malakoff. Private, launch feeDirections ↗
Size & creel limits
Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Cedar Creek Reservoir are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department ↗
Bait & tackle nearby
No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.
Search more bait shops near Cedar Creek Reservoir ↗Local tips
- Watch for gulls and terns diving on shad to locate schooling white bass and hybrids.
- Look for submerged islands across the lake from where Clear and Caney creeks meet.
- Some private ramps can be hard to use when the lake is low; check levels before you go.
Choke Canyon ReservoirLive Oak & McMullen Counties · 25,670 acres
Choke Canyon Reservoir
A Frio River reservoir 4 miles west of Three Rivers, between San Antonio and Corpus Christi, managed by the City of Corpus Christi. It is known for largemouth bass and catfish in flooded brush, plus alligator gar.
Species
Fishery rating out of 5.
Largemouth Bass
Topwater near weedbeds early and late, or flip jigs and worms in heavy brush. Use 20 lb line or heavier in the huisache and mesquite.
Blue Catfish
Abundant throughout. Cheesebait and cutbait work; flooded shallow cover under 8 ft can hold fish.
Flathead Catfish
Creek channels and the main Frio channel. Live bluegill or shad for big fish.
Crappie
Brushy cover and timber. A popular fishery here, but numbers vary year to year.
White Bass
Gather in the Frio River channel December through February before running upstream. Small rattletraps and grubs.
Alligator Gar
Not abundant, but a good bowfishing target. Harvest must be reported to TPWD.
Boat launches
5 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.
- Choke Canyon State Park, Calliham UnitFeeTPWD. Six-lane lighted ramp; park entry feeDirections ↗
- Choke Canyon State Park, South Shore UnitFeeTPWD. Six-lane lighted ramp, day use only; park entry feeDirections ↗
- Mason PointFeeTPWD. Two-lane ramp off Park Road 7; day use feeDirections ↗
- Highway 99 Boat RampFeeTPWD. Two-lane ramp off FM 99; day use feeDirections ↗
- San Miguel Boat RampFreeTPWD. Two-lane ramp in the James E. Daughtrey WMA near Tilden; no feeDirections ↗
Size & creel limits
Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Choke Canyon Reservoir are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department ↗
Bait & tackle nearby
No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.
Search more bait shops near Choke Canyon Reservoir ↗Local tips
- TPWD lists special catfish rules for this reservoir; check the current Outdoor Annual before keeping fish.
- Summer bass fishing is tough; go deep to brushy points, roadbeds and drop-offs with crankbaits and Carolina rigs.
- Levels swing with drought; flooded brush appears at high water and some ramps can be affected at low water.
Lake ConroeMontgomery & Walker Counties · 20,118 acres
Lake Conroe
A water-supply reservoir on the West Fork of the San Jacinto River northwest of Conroe, run by the San Jacinto River Authority. The lower lake is lined with docks and bulkheads, the upper end runs into Sam Houston National Forest, and it is known for largemouth bass, hybrid stripers and catfish.
Species
Fishery rating out of 5.
Largemouth Bass
Shallow around marinas and docks in early spring and mid to late fall; deeper cover the rest of the year. Shad imitations and soft plastics.
Hybrid Striped Bass
Troll open water or jig spoons and live shad. Often feed under white bass schools in summer.
Channel Catfish
Year-round on cut shad or stink baits.
Bluegill
Fish 8 ft or deeper near the toe of riprap with worms or crickets.
Crappie
Docks, brush and the fish habitat reefs; find reef coordinates with TPWD's habitat viewer.
Boat launches
8 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.
- FM 830 RampFreeTPWD ramp off I-45 north of Conroe. Free, two concrete rampsDirections ↗
- Cagle Recreation AreaFeeU.S. Forest Service, on FM 1375 east of the bridge. Two-lane concrete; feeDirections ↗
- Scott's RidgeFeeU.S. Forest Service, west of the FM 1097 bridge. Two-lane concrete; feeDirections ↗
- Stubblefield LakeFreeU.S. Forest Service, off FM 1375. Dirt ramp, small boats onlyDirections ↗
- Stow-a-way MarinaMarinaPrivate, north of Willis off Calvary Road. Three-lane concrete; fee. (936) 856-4531Directions ↗
- April Plaza MarinaMarinaPrivate, on Texas 105 west of Conroe. Three-lane concrete; fee. (936) 588-1144Directions ↗
- Pier 105MarinaPrivate, on Texas 105. Three-lane concrete; feeDirections ↗
- Lakeview MarinaMarinaPrivate, off Beachwalk Blvd. Two 2-lane ramps; fee. (936) 588-3190Directions ↗
Size & creel limits
Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.
| Species | Min size | Daily limit |
|---|---|---|
| Largemouth Bass Lake-specific length limit; statewide is 14 in | 16 in | 5 / day (black bass combined) |
Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Texas Parks and Wildlife Department ↗
Bait & tackle nearby
No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.
Search more bait shops near Lake Conroe ↗Local tips
- Standing timber along the old river channel in the upper lake sits just under the surface at normal pool; run slowly.
- Release any grass carp you catch; they are stocked under a permit to control vegetation.
- Drain all water from your boat when leaving the lake; Texas requires it to fight zebra mussels.
Lake ForkWood, Rains & Hopkins Counties · 27,264 acres
Lake Fork
Lake Fork is in northeast Texas, about 80 miles east of Dallas. It is one of the best-known trophy largemouth bass lakes in the country.
Species
Fishery rating out of 5.
Largemouth Bass
Big fish come from standing timber and creek channels on deep-diving cranks and big worms.
Crappie
Fish submerged timber and bridge pilings with jigs or minnows.
White Bass
Schools chasing shad in open water, and spring river runs.
Channel Catfish
Cut bait and nightcrawlers on flats and creek mouths in the evening.
Bluegill
Weed beds and shallow flats in late spring.
Boat launches
6 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.
- Caney Point Recreation AreaPublicSabine River Authority, 3685 W State Hwy 154, Yantis; six-lane ramp, 245 trailer spacesDirections ↗
- FM 17 Public RampFreeSabine River Authority, west end of FM 515 bridge on FM 17; two ramps, dock, restroom, no feeDirections ↗
- Highway 154 Public RampFreeSabine River Authority, southeast end of Hwy 154 bridge on Caney Creek arm; no feeDirections ↗
- Highway 515 East RampFreeSabine River Authority, west side of Caney Creek at the 515 East bridge; no feeDirections ↗
- Rains County RampFreeRains County, north end of FM 2946 bridge on Lake Fork Creek arm; no feeDirections ↗
- More public accessPublicSee Texas Parks & Wildlife or the lake manager's website for all ramps and feesDirections ↗
Size & creel limits
Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.
| Species | Min size | Daily limit |
|---|---|---|
| Largemouth Bass Fish 16 in and under or 24 in and over may be kept; only 1 largemouth 24 in+ per day | 16-24 in slot | 5 / day combined |
| Crappie Dec 1-Feb 28: no minimum length and all crappie caught must be retained | 10 in | 25 / day |
| White Bass | 10 in | 25 / day |
| Channel Catfish Channel/blue combined; max 10 over 20 in | See Texas rules book ↗ | 25 / day combined |
| Bluegill | See Texas rules book ↗ | No limit |
Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Texas Parks and Wildlife Department ↗
Bait & tackle nearby
Closest shops to the lake and its boat launches. Call ahead for live bait and hours.
- Lake Fork Goods and TackleNearby8446 FM 515, Yantis, TX(903) 243-8646Directions ↗
- Lake Fork Marina Tackle and Gift ShopNearby275 County Road 1558, Alba, TX(903) 765-2764Directions ↗
Local tips
- Standing timber is everywhere, so stay in marked boat lanes when running.
- Spring spawn in February and March is the best shot at a double-digit bass.
- Texas law requires draining all water from your boat when leaving the lake.
View on interactive map
Zoom and pan on a street, satellite or terrain map. Red pins are boat launches.
Lake KempBaylor County · 15,590 acres
Lake Kemp
A City of Wichita Falls water-supply reservoir on the Wichita River north of Seymour, reached through Waggoner Ranch gates. It has a rocky shoreline and flooded brush, with good white bass, catfish and a rebounding largemouth fishery.
Species
Fishery rating out of 5.
White Bass
Abundant and hard fighting. Look for schools on points and in the river arm during the spring run.
Blue Catfish
Blue, channel and flathead catfish are all present in good numbers. Cut bait on flats and channel edges.
Largemouth Bass
Texas-rig plastics in flooded brush. Crankbaits and topwaters on rocky points and along the dam.
Striped Bass
Find them on electronics in deep water, then try dead-stick hair jigs or live bait.
Crappie
White crappie numbers have improved. Fish rocks in deeper water and under docks.
Boat launches
3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.
- Moonshine GateFeeWaggoner Ranch toll gate off US 183/283. Best ramp on the lake, usable at lower levels than the othersDirections ↗
- Flippen Creek GateFeeWaggoner Ranch toll gate off US 183/283. Ramp for small to mid-sized boats, may not be usable in summerDirections ↗
- Pony Creek GateFeeWaggoner Ranch toll gate off FM 1919, 7 miles north of SeymourDirections ↗
Size & creel limits
Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lake Kemp are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department ↗
Bait & tackle nearby
No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.
Search more bait shops near Lake Kemp ↗Local tips
- Access is through Waggoner Ranch gates with a daily entry fee. Call ahead to check which ramps are usable.
- Lake levels rise and fall with drought, and ramps go out of service at low water. Moonshine is usually the last to close.
- Wind sweeps across this open country. Plan around afternoon gusts and storms.
Lake LivingstonPolk, San Jacinto, Trinity & Walker Counties · 83,277 acres
Lake Livingston
A large Trinity River reservoir in East Texas north of Houston, owned and run by the Trinity River Authority. It is known for excellent white bass and catfish fishing.
Species
Fishery rating out of 5.
White Bass
The lake's most popular fishery. Best in early spring when fish run up the feeder creeks.
Blue Catfish
Abundant, with lots of 12 to 25 inch fish. Fish natural and live baits over the main river channel and in creeks.
Channel Catfish
Fewer and smaller than blues. Same baits and spots, year-round.
Striped Bass
Low numbers. Troll or vertical jig spoons or live shad near the US 190 bridge.
Largemouth Bass
Few legal fish. Try bays and creeks from Kickapoo and Penwaugh north in spring and fall.
Boat launches
8 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.
- Lake Livingston State ParkFeeTexas Parks & Wildlife. Park entrance fee. Off FM 3126 south of LivingstonDirections ↗
- Wolf Creek ParkFeeTrinity River Authority. Fee per vehicle and person. Two ramps; closed December and JanuaryDirections ↗
- Tigerville ParkFreeTrinity River Authority. No fee. Off FM 3126Directions ↗
- Point Blank Public RampFreePublic ramp off FM 156 in Point Blank. No feeDirections ↗
- Blanchard Public RampFreePublic ramp at the end of FM 2457. No feeDirections ↗
- Riverside Public RampFreePublic ramp on TX 19 north of Riverside, upper lake. No feeDirections ↗
- Cauthan Public RampFreePublic ramp on TX 94 east of Trinity. No feeDirections ↗
- Kickapoo MarinaMarinaPrivate marina at the Kickapoo Creek bridge on US 190. Launch feeDirections ↗
Size & creel limits
Special rules for this lake, confirmed from official state regulations. Minimum size and daily limit.
| Species | Min size | Daily limit |
|---|---|---|
| Channel & Blue Catfish No more than 5 catfish 30 in or longer per day | See Texas rules book ↗ | 50 / day combined |
Other species in this lake: look up the limits at Texas Parks and Wildlife Department ↗
Bait & tackle nearby
No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.
Search more bait shops near Lake Livingston ↗Local tips
- Hit the feeder creeks in late winter and early spring for the white bass run.
- This is a big, shallow, open lake; afternoon wind builds rough water fast, so watch the forecast.
- Zebra mussels are present and a fish consumption advisory is in effect; clean, drain and dry your boat and check the advisory before keeping fish.
Lake PalestineAnderson, Cherokee, Henderson & Smith Counties · 25,560 acres
Lake Palestine
A Neches River reservoir about 15 miles southwest of Tyler, owned by the Upper Neches River Authority. It is known for white and hybrid striped bass, catfish, crappie and largemouth bass.
Species
Fishery rating out of 5.
Hybrid Striped Bass
Most active from the dam to the Highway 155 bridge in winter and spring. Stocked by TPWD.
White Bass
Same lower-lake areas as hybrids in winter and spring. Numbers have rebounded since a 2018 fish kill.
Blue Catfish
Drift worms or livers between Hawn Point and the Highway 155 bridges. Live or cut fish for bigger blues.
Largemouth Bass
Best in the upper lake above the pipeline, Cobb and Stone Chimney creeks, and Saline Bay.
Crappie
Small jigs or minnows around the Highway 155 bridge in spring, and on brush piles.
Boat launches
7 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.
- Deep End Public RampFreeWest end of the dam via FM 1892. Two-lane ramp, no feeDirections ↗
- Saline BayFreeCR 189W near Dogwood City. Two-lane ramp, no feeDirections ↗
- Kickapoo Public RampFreeOff FM 315 south of Chandler. Ramp and bank fishing, no feeDirections ↗
- Flat Creek Public RampFreeOff FM 315 south of Chandler. Ramp and bank fishing, no feeDirections ↗
- Chandler River ParkFreeCity of Chandler, Neches River. Small boats only; may be unusable at low waterDirections ↗
- Lake Palestine MarinaMarinaPrivate. Two-lane concrete ramp near the FM 344 Saline Creek bridge; launch feeDirections ↗
- Flat Creek MarinaMarinaPrivate. Ramp off FM 315; launch feeDirections ↗
Size & creel limits
Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lake Palestine are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department ↗
Bait & tackle nearby
No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.
Search more bait shops near Lake Palestine ↗Local tips
- Use a graph to find angler-placed brush piles between the dam and the Highway 155 bridge.
- Timber and vegetation are mostly above the Highway 155 bridge; run carefully in the upper lake.
- Some upper-lake ramps, like Chandler, can go dry in drought years.
Lake Ray HubbardDallas, Rockwall, Kaufman & Collin Counties · 22,745 acres
Lake Ray Hubbard
A City of Dallas water-supply reservoir on the East Fork of the Trinity River, crossed by I-30 between Garland, Rowlett and Rockwall. It is known for trophy blue catfish, good largemouth bass and schooling white and hybrid striped bass.
Species
Fishery rating out of 5.
Largemouth Bass
Good numbers of 14-inch-plus fish. Work docks, riprap and bulkheads with crankbaits and soft plastics.
Blue Catfish
Big fish are available. Drift or anchor with cut shad on flats and channel edges, especially in winter.
White Bass
Watch for schools chasing shad in open water in summer and fall. Slabs and small swimbaits.
Hybrid Striped Bass
Mix with white bass around main-lake humps and bridges. Live shad or slabs.
Crappie
Bridge pilings, docks and brush piles. Minnows or small jigs.
Boat launches
7 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.
- Paul Jones ParkFreeCity of Garland ramp, 4099 Zion Rd. No feeDirections ↗
- State Highway 66 Boat RampFreeCity of Rockwall ramp. No feeDirections ↗
- Terry ParkFreeCity ramp. No feeDirections ↗
- Captain's Cove MarinaMarinaPrivate marina, 5965 Marina Dr, Garland. Launch feeDirections ↗
- Harbor Bay MarinaMarinaPrivate marina. Launch feeDirections ↗
- Chandler's LandingMarinaPrivate marina. Launch feeDirections ↗
- Paddle Point ParkCarry-inCity of Rowlett gravel launch for non-motorized craft onlyDirections ↗
Size & creel limits
Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lake Ray Hubbard are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department ↗
Bait & tackle nearby
Closest shops to the lake and its boat launches. Call ahead for live bait and hours.
- Bass Pro Shops Garland ↗Nearby5001 Bass Pro Dr, Garland(469) 221-2600Directions ↗
Local tips
- Robertson Park ramps closed after the land was sold for development; use the city ramps instead.
- Ray Hubbard is a wide, open lake that gets rough quickly in strong wind; watch the forecast in smaller boats.
- Gulls diving on shad in summer and fall often mark schooling white and hybrid striped bass.
Lake TawakoniHunt, Rains & Van Zandt Counties · 37,879 acres
Lake Tawakoni
A large Sabine River Authority reservoir about 15 miles southeast of Greenville, east of Dallas. It is known for hybrid striped bass, white bass, and big blue catfish.
Species
Fishery rating out of 5.
Hybrid Striped Bass
Stocked every year. Watch for surfacing schools and diving gulls; jig slabs and spoons on main-lake humps, or fish live shad.
Blue Catfish
Trophy blues are fairly common in winter. Drift cut bait or shad across flats and humps.
White Bass
Schools with the hybrids. Topwaters and small slabs on surface feeds, or troll lipless cranks on major points.
Channel Catfish
Abundant. Cut bait, shrimp, liver or stink bait from the bank or drifting.
Crappie
Bridge pilings, standing timber and brush piles, best in late spring and fall.
Largemouth Bass
Cover is limited, so any piers, boathouses, vegetation or shoreline trees can hold fish.
Boat launches
8 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.
- Lake Tawakoni State ParkFeeTPWD. Four-lane launch, park entry feeDirections ↗
- Caddo Creek Public RampFreeSabine River Authority. Free two-lane concrete rampDirections ↗
- Sabine River Authority Public RampFreeFree two-lane concrete rampsDirections ↗
- Two Mile Bridge EastFreeTPWD. Free two-lane concrete rampDirections ↗
- Two Mile Bridge WestFreeTPWD. Free two-lane concrete rampDirections ↗
- Duck Cove Public RampFreeTPWD. Free two-lane concrete rampDirections ↗
- Tawakoni City ParkFreeCity-run. Free two-lane concrete rampDirections ↗
- Wind Point ParkFeePrivate, fee. Two 2-lane ramps and a 300-ft fishing pierDirections ↗
Size & creel limits
Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lake Tawakoni are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department ↗
Bait & tackle nearby
Closest shops to the lake and its boat launches. Call ahead for live bait and hours.
- Trot Line Bait & TackleNearby2013 E Hwy 276, West Tawakoni(903) 447-3100Directions ↗
Local tips
- Water levels can swing 3 to 9 feet, and vegetation thins out after drawdowns, so check the level before you go.
- Diving seagulls in spring and summer usually mean hybrids, stripers and white bass are feeding on shad below.
- Special catfish limits apply on Tawakoni; check the TPWD Outdoor Annual before keeping fish.
Lake TravisTravis & Burnet Counties · 18,622 acres
Lake Travis
A long, deep Highland Lakes reservoir on the Colorado River just northwest of Austin, held back by Mansfield Dam. It is known for clear water, rocky cliffs, big water level swings, and a mixed fishery of black bass, white bass, stripers, and catfish.
Species
Fishery rating out of 5.
Largemouth Bass
Good numbers but mostly small fish. Topwaters, jerkbaits, and spinnerbaits on points and drop-offs; flooded brush at high water.
White Bass
Spring runs from late February to May up the Pedernales River, the upper Colorado arm, and big creeks.
Guadalupe Bass
Texas state fish. Rocky banks and the river arms with small crankbaits and soft plastics.
Blue Catfish
Blues, channels, and flatheads lakewide. Stinkbait or cutbait for blues and channels; live bait for flatheads.
Striped Bass
Low numbers in the lower lake. Night fishing at lighted docks in winter, topwaters on schooling fish in April and May.
Boat launches
8 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.
- Mansfield Dam ParkFeeTravis County park near the dam; ramp usable down to about 637 ftDirections ↗
- Sandy Creek ParkFeeTravis County park rampDirections ↗
- Arkansas Bend ParkFeeTravis County park rampDirections ↗
- Pace Bend Park (Tatum Cove & Collier Cove)FeeTravis County park ramps; Tournament Point ramp closedDirections ↗
- Cypress Creek ParkFeeTravis County ramp; needs higher lake levelsDirections ↗
- Muleshoe Bend Recreation AreaFeeLCRA park ramp on the upper lakeDirections ↗
- Narrows Recreation AreaFeeLCRA park ramp on the upper lakeDirections ↗
- Jones Brothers ParkPublicCity of Jonestown rampDirections ↗
Size & creel limits
Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lake Travis are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department ↗
Bait & tackle nearby
No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.
Search more bait shops near Lake Travis ↗Local tips
- Lake levels swing 10 to 20 feet or more; check the LCRA ramp page, since each ramp has a minimum usable level.
- June through August is tough for bass; fish early, late, or at night, and try spring and fall for the best bite.
- Zebra mussels are present. Clean, drain and dry your boat and gear before leaving; draining is required by law.
Lake WhitneyBosque & Hill Counties · 23,500 acres
Lake Whitney
A large Corps of Engineers lake on the Brazos and Nolan rivers, about 30 miles northwest of Waco. It is known as one of the best striped bass lakes in Texas, with strong white bass and catfish fishing too.
Species
Fishery rating out of 5.
Striped Bass
Best March through May. Fish move to deeper, cooler water in summer and hold along channels in winter. Live bait, slabs and spoons.
White Bass
Spawning runs up the Brazos and Nolan rivers March through May, then good in the main lake April through November.
Blue Catfish
Trophy blues bite December through March, and fish over 40 lb are possible. Channel and flathead catfish are best April through June.
Largemouth Bass
Spring is best in 2 to 15 ft around rock and timber. Summer fish sit deeper, around 10 to 20 ft.
Crappie
Spawn March and April in 3 to 15 ft. Best in the middle and upper lake after the spawn.
Smallmouth Bass
Improving after stockings. Try rocky banks in the middle and lower lake.
Boat launches
8 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.
- McCown Valley ParkFeeUSACE park with a large three-lane ramp. $3/day launch feeDirections ↗
- Lofers Bend EastFeeUSACE park with two ramps. $5/day launch feeDirections ↗
- Cedron Creek ParkFeeUSACE park with a double-lane ramp. $5/day launch feeDirections ↗
- Steele Creek ParkFreeUSACE park with two ramps. FreeDirections ↗
- Walling Bend ParkFreeUSACE park with two double-lane ramps. FreeDirections ↗
- Cedar Creek ParkFreeUSACE park with a double-lane ramp. FreeDirections ↗
- Ham Creek ParkRampLease park run by Marinas International. Ramp, courtesy dock, fishing dockDirections ↗
- Lake Whitney State ParkFeeTexas State Parks. Boat ramps, camping, swimming. Park entry feeDirections ↗
Size & creel limits
Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Lake Whitney are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department ↗
Bait & tackle nearby
No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.
Search more bait shops near Lake Whitney ↗Local tips
- Golden alga blooms can kill fish here. Check TPWD bloom status before a trip.
- Kimball Bend ramp has been closed for Highway 174 bridge work and Plowman Creek Park was closed for maintenance. Check USACE status first.
- A $40 USACE annual day use pass covers launch fees at Corps parks that charge them.
O.H. Ivie ReservoirColeman, Concho & Runnels Counties · 19,149 acres
O.H. Ivie Reservoir
A West Texas reservoir at the junction of the Colorado and Concho rivers, about 55 miles east of San Angelo. It is famous for trophy largemouth bass and has produced many ShareLunker fish over 13 pounds.
Species
Fishery rating out of 5.
Largemouth Bass
Flip jigs and soft plastics into flooded saltcedar and timber. For trophies, drag Carolina rigs or live bait on deep humps and drop-offs.
Crappie
Standing timber holds fish. Often best at night under lights.
Channel Catfish
Live and cut bait work across the lake; blues and flatheads also present.
White Bass
Troll crankbaits on the main lake near the dam. Numbers have been down in recent surveys.
Boat launches
3 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.
- Concho Recreation AreaFeeCRMWD area with Concho Marina, concrete ramps, camping. $5 day pass per vehicleDirections ↗
- Kennedy Recreation AreaFeeCRMWD area with Elm Creek Marina, concrete ramp, camping. $5 day passDirections ↗
- Padgitt Recreation AreaFeeCRMWD concrete ramp, camping, picnic area. $5 day passDirections ↗
Size & creel limits
Minimum size and daily limit for each species in O.H. Ivie Reservoir are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department ↗
Bait & tackle nearby
Closest shops to the lake and its boat launches. Call ahead for live bait and hours.
- Elm Creek MarinaNearbyKennedy Recreation Area, O.H. Ivie(325) 357-4776Directions ↗
Local tips
- Access is only through the three CRMWD parks; buy a day pass ($5 per vehicle) or annual pass.
- Water levels change a lot with drought and rain; when the lake rises, bass move into flooded brush and saltcedar.
- Zebra mussels are present. Clean, drain and dry your boat, livewells and gear before leaving; draining is required by law.
Possum Kingdom LakePalo Pinto & Young Counties · 15,588 acres
Possum Kingdom Lake
A deep, clear Brazos River Authority reservoir in the Palo Pinto Mountains, about 75 miles west of Fort Worth. It is known for striped bass, white bass and catfish, and for cliffs like Hell's Gate.
Species
Fishery rating out of 5.
Striped Bass
Stocked most years. Watch for birds over bait schools and use live shad or slabs in open water toward the dam.
White Bass
Strong spring run toward the river mouth. Jigs, spoons and slabs on schooling fish.
Largemouth Bass
Florida-strain fish stocked. Fish 10 to 25 ft with light line in the clear water, around docks, rock and vegetation.
Blue Catfish
Some very large fish. Costello Island and upstream with cut bait or live sunfish.
Crappie
Brush piles and docks; backs of coves in spring.
Boat launches
7 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.
- BRA Public Boat RampFreeBrazos River Authority. Free, courtesy dock, usable at varied lake levelsDirections ↗
- South D&D (Area #4 South)PublicBRA. Ramp, courtesy dock, fishing pier, campsitesDirections ↗
- North D&D (Area #4 North)PublicBRA. Ramp and campground, park use fee may apply in summerDirections ↗
- Scenic Cove CampgroundFreeBRA. Free ramp, courtesy dock, fishing pierDirections ↗
- West Side ParkPublicBRA. Ramp and courtesy dock on the west sideDirections ↗
- Sandy BeachPublicBRA. Ramp and swim area, summer use fee may applyDirections ↗
- Possum Kingdom State ParkFeeTexas Parks and Wildlife. Ramp and fishing pier, park entry feeDirections ↗
Size & creel limits
Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Possum Kingdom Lake are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department ↗
Bait & tackle nearby
No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.
Search more bait shops near Possum Kingdom Lake ↗Local tips
- Lake levels fluctuate a lot; several ramps work best at higher levels, so check the BRA site first.
- The BRA Habitat Structure Viewer gives GPS points for brush piles and fish structure.
- Golden alga blooms have caused fish kills in past years; check TPWD news after a dry spell.
Richland-Chambers ReservoirNavarro & Freestone Counties · 41,356 acres
Richland-Chambers Reservoir
A large water-supply reservoir on Richland and Chambers creeks southeast of Corsicana, run by the Tarrant Regional Water District. It is known for blue catfish, crappie, and white bass and hybrid stripers.
Species
Fishery rating out of 5.
Blue Catfish
Abundant with excellent angling. Cut bait, stink bait or worms on flats and channel edges.
Crappie
Often the most consistent bite. Jigs or minnows at bridges and in timber in the upper Richland and Chambers arms.
Hybrid Striped Bass
With white bass, roam from the US 287 bridge to the dam. Find shad on the graph or watch for birds; slabs when deep.
White Bass
Schools with hybrids in open water; spring runs up the creek arms.
Largemouth Bass
Best where clear water and vegetation meet. Spoons and deep crankbaits on structure.
Boat launches
6 launch sites. Fees and hours change, so confirm before you go.
- Cedar Creek RampFreeNavarro County ramp. FreeDirections ↗
- FM 2859 CrossingFreeNavarro County one-lane ramp. FreeDirections ↗
- Cheneyboro RampFreeNavarro County ramp. FreeDirections ↗
- Crab Creek RampFreeNavarro County ramp. FreeDirections ↗
- Highway 309 ParkFreeNavarro County single-lane ramp. FreeDirections ↗
- More public accessPublicSee the TPWD lake page for all ramps, marinas and feesDirections ↗
Size & creel limits
Minimum size and daily limit for each species in Richland-Chambers Reservoir are published by the state. Look up the current size and creel limits for this lake directly: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department ↗
Bait & tackle nearby
No shops listed yet for this lake. Use the search link below.
Search more bait shops near Richland-Chambers Reservoir ↗Local tips
- Zebra mussels are present; clean, drain and dry your boat, trailer, livewells and bait buckets before leaving.
- Watch for birds working shad over open water for white bass and hybrids, especially between the US 287 bridge and the dam.
- Timber in the upper Richland and Chambers arms holds crappie; idle carefully when running those areas.