Lake LBJ vs Lake Travis
Lake LBJ and Lake Travis are both guided by Bryan Cotter, but they fish nothing alike. Here's how they stack up on the water - and which one to pick for your trip.
| Lake LBJ | Lake Travis | |
|---|---|---|
| Best known for | Balanced | Numbers |
| Surface area | 6,449 acres | 18,622 acres |
| Max depth | 90 ft | 190 ft |
| Water | Grass-heavy | Clear |
| Level | Constant | Highly Fluctuating |
| Numbers potential | 4/5 | 5/5 |
| Trophy potential | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Kid / beginner friendly | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Lake record (largemouth) | 13.70 lbs | 15.32 lbs |
| Signature technique | Dock Skipping | Worms & crankbaits |
| Night fishing | – | Yes |
| Best months | Mar, Apr, May | Year-round |
Choose Lake LBJ if…
Anglers who want a consistent, reliable bite year-round, families and kids (shallow, forgiving water), dock-flipping fans, and anyone who wants a shot at the Guadalupe bass.
Choose Lake Travis if…
The best lake near Austin for kids and first-timers, hands down - high catch rates, easy water, and steady action. Also a strong pick if you just want a fun numbers day with a real chance at a quality fish.
Bryan's verdict
Both are excellent family lakes. Go with Lake Travis for numbers and the shortest drive from Austin. Choose Lake LBJ if you'd rather flip docks in shallow, constant-level water and have a real shot at a Guadalupe bass - it's a stronghold for the Texas state fish, and I hold the lake record for them there.
LBJ is probably the best lake in the area for flipping docks, and a lot of the time that's exactly where the biggest bass are sitting. Jigs and flukes are my go-to.
Lake LBJ vs Lake Travis - FAQs
Which should I book?
Go with Lake LBJ if you want kids, family, beginner. Choose Lake Travis if you're after kids, beginner, numbers. Tell Bryan your goal and group and he'll point you to the right water.