Best Beginner Bass Lakes Near Austin
The fastest way to fall in love with bass fishing is to catch a bunch of them. These are the lakes I put new anglers and kids on near Austin - easy water and a high catch rate.
Lake Travis
The lake I've put more first-timers and kids on than any other.
Lake record 15.32 lbs · Trophy 3/5 · Numbers 5/5
Lake Bastrop
A great lake to catch numbers and to bring the family or a large group.
Lake record 9.98 lbs · Trophy 2/5 · Numbers 5/5
Lake LBJ
If you like flipping docks for chunky largemouth, this is the lake.
Lake record 13.70 lbs · Trophy 3/5 · Numbers 4/5
Inks Lake
Being on the smaller side, you can pretty much fish it however you like.
Lake record 13.40 lbs · Trophy 3/5 · Numbers 4/5
Bryan's verdict
For a true first-timer or kids, I start on Lake Travis - easy water, a high catch rate, and close to town. Lake Bastrop's summer schooling is a close second for staying busy, and Inks Lake is a great, small, scenic place to learn. All tackle's provided on any of them, so you just show up.
Lake Travis is the lake I've put more first-timers and kids on than any other. It's easy to fish, it's loaded with bass, and almost everybody catches.
Related FAQs
What is the best bass fishing lake near Austin?
It depends on your goal. For numbers and first-timers I start people on Lake Travis - easy water and a high catch rate. For a shot at a true trophy, Lake Austin's grass or downtown Lady Bird Lake are hard to beat. In winter I'd point you to Lake Buchanan. Tell me what you're after and I'll match you to the right lake.
Where can I bass fish near Austin without a boat?
There are shore-access spots around town - I keep a rundown on the Fishing Places page. For the best day on the water, though, a guided boat trip puts you on far more (and bigger) fish.
Is Lake Travis good for beginners and kids?
It's the lake I recommend most for kids and first-timers. It's easy to fish and the catch rate is high, which keeps young anglers having fun and bending rods all day.
Is Lake Austin good for trophy bass?
It's one of the best trophy lakes in the area - some of the largest bass around have come out of Lake Austin, including the lake record over 16 pounds. If you're after a lifetime-record fish, there's a good chance this is where you catch it.
Not sure which lake fits your trip? Tell me your goal and group, and I'll put you on the right water.