Central Texas Bass Fishing by Season
When to fish and what to expect, all year long. The pattern, the best lakes, and what to throw for each season, every month, and the transitions between — the "when" that pairs with the conditions that explain "why." For a month-grid view, see the bass fishing calendar.
The Four Seasons
Spring
The best fishing of the year — pre-spawn to spawn.
Summer
Early, deep, or after dark.
Fall
Chase the shad — run-and-gun schooling.
Winter
Slow and deep — but a giant is possible.
Month by Month
January
Coldest water — deep, slow, big-fish patience.
February
Pre-spawn stirs — big-fish month.
March
Prime pre-spawn — the year hits its stride.
April
The spawn — sight-fish the flats.
May
Post-spawn + shad spawn — topwater time.
June
Early summer — topwater mornings, deep sets up.
July
Deep summer — offshore, grass, or night.
August
Dog days — deepest, and night shines.
September
First cool-down — schooling begins.
October
Peak fall — chase schooling shad.
November
Late fall — feeding up before winter.
December
Early winter — deep sets up, slow down.
Seasonal Transitions
Winter → Pre-Spawn
The warm-up that wakes the giants.
Spawn → Post-Spawn
Fish leave the beds and gorge on shad.
Spring → Summer
The move offshore begins.
Summer → Fall
First fronts flip on the schooling bite.
Fall → Winter
Cooling water groups fish deep.
No matter the season, there's a pattern that's working. Book a trip and I'll put you on it. See rates and book or call 512-762-0190.