Lake Travis vs Lake Buchanan
Lake Travis and Lake Buchanan 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 Travis | Lake Buchanan | |
|---|---|---|
| Best known for | Numbers | Trophy |
| Surface area | 18,622 acres | 22,211 acres |
| Max depth | 190 ft | 132 ft |
| Water | Clear | – |
| Level | Highly Fluctuating | Highly Fluctuating |
| Numbers potential | 5/5 | 3/5 |
| Trophy potential | 3/5 | 5/5 |
| Kid / beginner friendly | 5/5 | – |
| Lake record (largemouth) | 15.32 lbs | 11.73 lbs |
| Signature technique | Worms & crankbaits | Football Jig |
| Night fishing | Yes | – |
| Best months | Year-round | Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar |
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.
Choose Lake Buchanan if…
Anglers chasing a quality or trophy fish, winter trips when other lakes slow down, and anyone who wants big water and a real shot at a quality largemouth.
Bryan's verdict
These are two different trips. Fish Lake Travis for numbers and a fun day close to Austin, especially with kids or first-timers. Make the drive to Lake Buchanan when you want a quality fish and don't mind big water - it's my pick in winter, when a lot of the area slows down and Buchanan is just getting good.
The number one thing I look for on Buchanan is rock - the largemouth love it, partly because it lets them tuck away from the striper, and the best rock holds the best fish. In cold water, when you think you're fishing slow enough, slow down more; that's how the giants come.
Lake Travis vs Lake Buchanan - FAQs
Lake Travis or Lake Buchanan - which is better for kids and beginners?
Lake Travis. It's the easier water with the higher catch rate, so it keeps kids and first-timers busy. Lake Buchanan rewards a bit more experience.
Which has the better shot at a trophy bass, Lake Travis or Lake Buchanan?
Lake Buchanan is the stronger trophy bet, while Lake Travis leans more toward numbers. Match the lake to your goal for the day.
Which should I book?
Go with Lake Travis if you want kids, beginner, numbers. Choose Lake Buchanan if you're after trophy, winter, big water. Tell Bryan your goal and group and he'll point you to the right water.