Top 5 Texas Lakes Every Angler Should Fish At Least Once
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Top 5 Texas Lakes Every Angler Should Fish At Least Once
Texas is a fishing paradise, with hundreds of lakes teeming with bass, catfish, crappie, and more. But if you're looking for the best of the best, these five lakes are legendary among anglers—and for good reason. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned pro, you’ll want to check these off your Texas fishing bucket list.
1. Lake Fork
Known For: Trophy Largemouth Bass
Location: ~90 miles east of Dallas
Why Fish It:
Lake Fork is the premier bass fishing lake in Texas—and arguably the entire country. It’s produced more than 65% of the top 50 largemouth bass in the state. With standing timber, deep channels, and loads of baitfish, it’s a structure angler’s dream.
Tip: Fish big swimbaits or jigs around submerged timber in early spring for a shot at a double-digit bass.
2. Sam Rayburn Reservoir
Known For: Bass, Crappie
Location: East Texas near Jasper
Why Fish It:
This massive 114,000-acre lake is a bass fishing powerhouse and frequent stop on pro tournament trails. The combination of grass beds, stumps, and open water makes it incredibly versatile.
Tip: In summer, try Carolina-rigged soft plastics over offshore humps and ledges.
3. Falcon Lake (Falcon International Reservoir)
Known For: Big Bass and Deep South Vibes
Location: Border of Texas and Mexico near Zapata
Why Fish It:
Falcon Lake is remote, wild, and full of chunky bass. It’s known for producing double-digit largemouths and offers year-round action in a semi-tropical climate.
Tip: Flip heavy cover with creature baits near submerged brush piles. Don’t be afraid to upsize your tackle here.
4. Toledo Bend Reservoir
Known For: Largemouth Bass, White Bass
Location: Texas/Louisiana border
Why Fish It:
Toledo Bend is a sprawling reservoir with a great balance of quantity and quality. It’s one of the few places you can catch 50 fish in a day—and still have a shot at a 10-pounder.
Tip: In spring, fish spinnerbaits along flooded brush and shallow points.
5. Lake Travis
Known For: Clear Water, Spotted Bass
Location: Just outside Austin
Why Fish It:
Lake Travis isn’t known for giant bass, but it's a fun lake full of spotted bass, Guadalupe bass (Texas' state fish), and beautiful scenery. It’s ideal for finesse techniques and kayak anglers.
Tip: Drop shot rigs and shaky heads work great in clear water around rocky points.
Final Cast
Whether you're chasing a personal best or just soaking in the beauty of Texas waters, these five lakes deliver unforgettable fishing experiences. Pack your gear, grab your fishing license, and go make some memories.
