Best Family Fishing Lakes Near Austin
A good family trip keeps everybody catching. These are the lakes near Austin I steer families and groups to, where the bite stays steady and the water's easy.
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 LBJ
If you like flipping docks for chunky largemouth, this is the lake.
Lake record 13.70 lbs · Trophy 3/5 · Numbers 4/5
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
Bryan's verdict
Lake Travis is my go-to for families - steady action, close to town, and I'll put the kids on bluegill if the bass slow down. Lake LBJ is a great pick if you want shallow water where kids can catch the big ones, and Lake Bastrop is hard to beat for a bigger group that just wants to stay busy.
In summer on Bastrop the bass school up in the middle of the lake, and there are spots where you can sit and catch lots of fish - some days over 100.
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.