October Bass Fishing
Month · water 65–75°F
October is peak fall in Central Texas. Cooling water pushes shad into the creeks and coves and bass school up to feed, giving fast run-and-gun reaction fishing. Chase the surface activity and the birds. Watch for a short turnover lull, but on either side the bite is excellent.
Why: Peak fall — chase schooling shad.
Evidence: Verified knowledge from Bryan Cotter, 26+ years guiding all 16 Central Texas lakes.
Related: Fayette County · Lake Travis · Bass fishing by season
Verified Answered by Bryan Cotter, Texas Hawgs guide · Updated Jul 12, 2026
The pattern
Fall schooling on shad in creeks, coves, points and flats.
Where the bass are: Creeks, coves, points and flats near shad; schooling in open water.
What they're doing: Grouped and feeding aggressively on shad.
October at a glance
- Type
- Month
- Months
- Oct
- Water temp
- 65–75°F
- Spawn phase
- Fall Transition
How to fish it
Go-to techniques: Walking Topwater, Crankbait Fishing, Spinnerbait, Chatterbait (Bladed Jig), Swimbait Fishing.
Best lures: Walking Topwater (Spook), Squarebill Crankbait, Spinnerbait, Lipless Crankbait, Underspin.
Best lakes right now
Fayette County · Lake Travis · Stillhouse Hollow · Canyon Lake · Lake Austin
What to expect
Fast, fun numbers when you find the schools. Keep moving and match the shad.
Common mistakes
- Sitting on one spot instead of running to find bait
- Getting stuck fishing water that's turning over
Keep exploring
All seasons & months · Bass fishing calendar · Conditions · Central Texas bass fishing guide
Want to fish October with a guide who knows the pattern? See rates and book or call 512-762-0190.