17 Top Fishing Spots in Texas for Kayak Anglers: The Ultimate Guide for 2025

By: Dave Samuel

Updated On: July 31, 2025

Last April, I watched the sun paint Lady Bird Lake orange while a 7-pound largemouth demolished my topwater frog near the I-35 bridge. My kayak rocked violently as the bass tail-walked across the glassy surface, and I couldn't help but grin - this is why Texas spoils kayak anglers rotten.

After paddling over 2,000 miles of Texas waters in the past five years, from the crystal-clear Devils River to the muddy marshes of Matagorda Bay, I've discovered that the Lone Star State offers more variety for kayak fishing than anywhere else I've paddled. Whether you're chasing bull reds in the surf, stalking bass in Hill Country rivers, or working coastal flats for speckled trout, Texas delivers.

Why Texas Dominates for Kayak Fishing?

Texas isn't just big - it's diverse. With 3,300 miles of tidal shoreline, 80+ paddling trails, and over 150 public lakes, you could fish a new spot every weekend for years and never hit them all. But here's what really sets Texas apart:

Year-Round Fishing: While my buddies up north are ice fishing, I'm catching reds in 65-degree water wearing shorts in January. The texas prime time fishing calendar never really stops here.

Shallow Water Paradise: Most of our best fishing happens in water less than 4 feet deep - perfect kayak territory where bass boats can't follow. I've caught more fish in 18 inches of water than anywhere else.

Species Variety: In a single day, you can catch largemouth bass at dawn, redfish at noon, and flounder at dusk. Try doing that anywhere else.

Quick Texas Fishing Calendar for Kayakers

Month	Inshore (Coast)	Freshwater	Hot Species
January	Good	Slow	Redfish, Crappie
February	Good	Fair	Speckled Trout, Catfish
March	Excellent	Excellent	Largemouth Bass (spawn)
April	Excellent	Excellent	Everything bites!
May	Great	Great	Topwater action begins
June-August	Good (early AM)	Good (night)	Offshore species
September	Great	Good	Flounder run starts
October	Excellent	Excellent	Bull reds in surf
November	Great	Good	Flounder run peaks
December	Good	Fair	Big trout time

Top 17 Texas Fishing Spots for Kayak Anglers

1. Lady Bird Lake, Austin - Urban Bass Paradise

I'll never forget my first time launching at the Barton Creek confluence. A great blue heron watched me fumble with my kayak entry technique while downtown skyscrapers reflected in the calm water. Ten minutes later, I was catching bass under the MoPac bridge like I'd escaped to wilderness.

What Makes It Special: No motorboats allowed (except crew coaches), year-round bass action thanks to Barton Springs' constant 70-degree water, and you can grab tacos after fishing.

Prime Spots:

I-35 bridge pilings (throw white spinnerbaits at dawn)
Barton Creek mouth (topwater frogs in lily pads)
Red Bud Island shoreline (Texas-rigged plastics)

Local Secret: Night fishing under the bridges with black buzzbaits produces monsters. I've landed three over 6 pounds after dark here.

Best Months: March-May, October-November

2. Devils River - Texas's Hidden Gem

Three years ago, I spent five days paddling Devils River with just my fishing gear and camping supplies. By day two, I'd stopped counting bass and started measuring only the big ones. This spring-fed river through the Chihuahuan Desert feels more like floating through an aquarium than Texas.

The Challenge: Limited access (mostly private land), requires planning, no cell service. But that's why the fishing stays incredible.

Target Species: Smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, huge sunfish, Guadalupe bass

Kayak Considerations: Pack light - you'll portage around Dolan Falls. A proper kayak maintenance routine is crucial before this remote trip.

Technique That Works: 1/8 oz white rooster tail, cast upstream, let it swing. I've caught over 100 bass in a day with this simple approach.

3. Matagorda Bay System - Coastal Variety

Last November, I launched from the Army Hole at first light. By 10 AM, I'd caught redfish, trout, flounder, and ladyfish without moving more than a quarter mile. The Matagorda Bay system might be the best coastal fishing in Texas for kayakers who want variety.

Why Kayaks Rule Here: Shallow back lakes and marshes where boats can't go. I regularly fish water so skinny my paddle blade touches bottom.

Key Areas:

East Matagorda Bay (less pressure than West)
Chinquapin area (world-class wade fishing)
Back lakes behind barrier islands

Seasonal Notes: October brings the bull red run. I've seen 40-inch reds in 2 feet of water chasing mullet.

4. Lake Fork - Big Bass Central

They say everything's bigger in Texas, and Lake Fork proves it. This 27,000-acre reservoir northeast of Dallas has produced more 10-pound-plus bass than any lake in Texas. But here's the thing - it fishes even better from a kayak than a bass boat.

Kayak Advantages:

Access to shallow timber bass boats avoid
Stealth approach to bed fishing in spring
Ability to fish thick hydrilla patches

Personal Best: 8.4 pounds on a white swim jig in flooded bushes, March [cy-1]. The kayak let me sneak into 2 feet of water where she was spawning.

Hot Tip: Fish the 2-6 foot depth range with moving baits. The lake has so much deep structure that shallow fish get less pressure.

5. Guadalupe River Below Canyon Dam - Trout in Texas

Yes, we have trout in Texas. The Guadalupe below Canyon Dam stays cold enough year-round to support rainbow and brown trout. It's surreal catching trout in July when it's 100 degrees, but that 45-degree dam release makes it possible.

Access Points:

Whitewater Sports (kayak rental and shuttle)
North and South access points below dam

Tackle: Size 16-20 flies or 1/16 oz olive Woolly Buggers under an indicator. I've also done well with corn (where legal) and small spinners.

Unique Challenge: Water levels fluctuate with dam releases. Check USGS gauges - 250-400 CFS is ideal for kayak fishing.

6. Caddo Lake - East Texas Mystery

Paddling through Spanish moss-draped cypress trees while bass explode on frogs feels more like Louisiana than Texas. Caddo Lake's 26,000 acres of mysterious beauty hide some of the best bass and crappie fishing in the state.

Navigation Tip: GPS is essential. I got lost for three hours my first trip. The maze of channels and trees makes every turn look identical.

Prime Techniques:

Flipping jigs to cypress knees
Spinnerbaits through boat lanes
Live minnows under cork for crappie

Wildlife Bonus: I've seen more alligators here than anywhere in Texas. They're generally shy, but it adds excitement to landing fish.

7. Port O'Connor - Little Bay System

The first time I fished Port O'Connor's back lakes, I understood why coastal guides protect their spots so fiercely. These shallow, grass-lined lakes hold incredible numbers of redfish and trout, especially in fall.

Why It's Perfect for Kayaks: Many areas are only accessible by kayak or airboat. The ability to paddle across 6-inch flats opens up untouched fishing.

Best Approach: Launch early, pole quietly (paddle noise spooks fish in shallow water), and watch for wakes and birds.

Go-To Lure: Bubblegum pink tail on a 1/8 oz jighead. Don't ask me why pink works, but it does.

8. Toledo Bend Reservoir - Interstate Giant

Straddling the Texas-Louisiana border, Toledo Bend's 185,000 acres intimidate many kayak anglers. Don't let the size fool you - the back creeks fish like small lakes and hold giant bass.

Kayak Strategy: Focus on creek channels in 5-10 feet. The main lake is for bass boats; creeks are kayak territory.

Seasonal Pattern:

Spring: Shallow wood and grass
Summer: Early topwater, then deep
Fall: Follow shad to backs of creeks
Winter: Slow-roll spinnerbaits on channel swings

Personal Experience: Caught my biggest five-fish limit here - 28 pounds - fishing a single fallen tree for two hours.

9. Galveston Bay System - Urban Saltwater

Living in Houston means Galveston Bay is my home water. Despite heavy fishing pressure, this massive estuary consistently produces thanks to its size and diversity. From a kayak, you can escape crowds and find your own fish.

Kayak-Friendly Spots:

Dickinson Bay (protected from wind)
Clear Lake (surprising for its proximity to NASA)
Trinity River delta (when river's not flooding)

Tide Tip: Fish move constantly with tides here. What's dead water at high tide might be on fire three hours later.

Year-Round Species: Redfish, speckled trout, flounder, black drum, sheepshead

10. Lake Travis - Hill Country Beauty

When Lake Travis finally filled after the 2015 floods, the fishing exploded. This deep, clear lake near Austin fishes more like a highland reservoir than a typical Texas lake. The scenery alone makes it worth paddling.

Unique Species: Some of the best Guadalupe bass fishing in Texas. These small but feisty fighters love rocky points and flowing water.

Kayak Warning: Pleasure boat traffic gets insane on weekends. I fish dawn patrol or weekdays only from May through September.

Best Bite: May white bass run up the Pedernales arm. Non-stop action on small silver spoons.

11. Brazos River Below Possum Kingdom

The Brazos below PK Dam offers year-round fishing in moving water - a rarity in Texas. Striped bass, white bass, and catfish stack up below the dam, and smallmouth bass inhabit the rocky stretches downstream.

Access Consideration: Check water releases before launching. High water makes this unfishable and dangerous from a kayak.

Forgotten Species: The smallmouth fishing here rivals any river up north. Bronze backs to 4 pounds smash crawfish-pattern crankbaits.

Safety Note: This is big water with strong current. I always wear my PFD and tell someone my float plan.

12. Aransas Bay - Redfish Capital

If you want to sight-cast to redfish from a kayak, Aransas Bay delivers. The combination of clear water, turtle grass flats, and abundant reds makes this my favorite coastal destination.

Prime Time: September through November, when water clears and reds school up. I've seen schools of 100+ fish in ankle-deep water.

Kayak Technique: Stake out (with a Push Pole or Power-Pole Micro) on points where tide moves bait. Let fish come to you rather than chasing them.

Don't Overlook: Black drum in winter. They're not glamorous, but 20-pounders in skinny water pull hard.

13. Lake Amistad - Desert Oasis

This massive reservoir on the Rio Grande offers some of the clearest water in Texas. The combination of deep structure, abundant vegetation, and minimal pressure creates exceptional fishing.

Why Kayaks Work: Many coves have no boat ramp access. Launching a kayak from shore opens up private honey holes.

Spring Secret: When bass spawn here in February/March, they're visible in 10+ feet of water. Sight fishing paradise.

Species Variety: Largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass plus huge catfish and occasional stripers.

14. San Antonio Bay - The Quiet Coast

While everyone fights the crowds at Rockport, San Antonio Bay sits quietly producing limits of trout and reds. The combination of freshwater inflow from the Guadalupe River and protection from strong winds makes this a kayak angler's dream.

Hidden Hotspots:

Panther Point reef (wade and cast)
South Pass (moving tide required)
Back lakes behind Matagorda Island

Seasonal Movement: Fish transition from deep shell in winter to shallow grass in summer. Follow the bait, follow the fish.

15. Sabine Lake - Transition Zone

Where river meets salt creates magic. Sabine Lake's unique position allows you to catch freshwater and saltwater species, sometimes on the same lure. I've caught bass and redfish on consecutive casts.

Weather Window: This area gets more rain than anywhere in Texas. Fish between fronts when water clears.

Underrated Fishing: Flounder stack up in the Sabine River during fall. Paddle upstream from the lake, drift back with the tide.

Local Knowledge: The "Chicken Coop" area consistently holds fish but gets rough quickly with south wind.

16. Lake Texoma - Striper Paradise

The only lake in Texas with a naturally reproducing striped bass population, Texoma demands respect. These aren't your average stripers - they're mean, river-strain fish that destroy tackle.

Kayak Advantage: When stripers push shad shallow in summer, kayaks can follow them into coves where boats bottom out.

Essential Gear: Heavier tackle than you think. I've been spooled twice by 20+ pound stripers in my kayak.

Best Bite: April-May when stripers spawn, and October-November when they school on points.

17. Colorado River - Austin to Bastrop

This overlooked stretch below Austin offers excellent fishing with minimal pressure. The gradient creates diverse habitat from deep pools to shallow riffles, holding everything from bass to massive carp.

Float Trip Paradise: Put in at Webberville Park, take out at Bastrop. All-day float with non-stop fishing action.

Surprising Quality: Some of the biggest Guadalupe bass in the state. The flowing water and crawfish diet grow them fat.

Multi-Species Days: Bass, catfish, sunfish, gar, carp, and occasional white bass. Never know what's next.

Essential Gear for Texas Kayak Fishing

After countless Texas fishing trips, here's what I won't leave home without:

Sun Protection: Texas sun is brutal. Quality sunscreen, buff, long-sleeve fishing shirt, and polarized sunglasses aren't optional.

Anchor System: Whether it's a claw anchor for coast or drift sock for lakes, staying in position is crucial.

Quality PFD: Texas law requires it, but choosing the right kayak PFD makes all-day wearing comfortable.

Rod Holders: At minimum, two flush-mount holders. I run four rods - two ready, two rigged with backup techniques.

Tackle Selection:

Coast: 1/8 oz jigheads, soft plastics (pink, white, chartreuse), gold spoons, popping corks
Freshwater: Texas-rigged plastics, white spinnerbaits, square-bill crankbaits, topwater frogs

Safety Considerations for Texas Waters

Weather: Texas weather changes fast. I've been caught in surprise thunderstorms that turned calm lakes into washing machines. Always check detailed forecasts and have an exit plan.

Wildlife:

Alligators: Present in East Texas waters. Make noise when landing fish
Stingrays: Shuffle feet when wading coastal areas
Snakes: Water moccasins are aggressive. Give them space

Summer Heat: Hydration is critical. I freeze water bottles the night before - they'll melt throughout the day providing cold water.

Wind: Texas wind is no joke. Know your limits and have a backup plan if wind prevents returning to launch.

Seasonal Strategies for Texas Kayak Fishing

Spring (March-May): Prime Time Everything

Spring in Texas means one thing - everything's biting. Bass are spawning, coastal species are active, and weather is perfect for all-day trips.

Freshwater Focus: Target spawning bass in 2-5 feet near cover. They're aggressive and visible.

Saltwater Pattern: Follow the bait migration. Shrimp and baitfish move shallow, predators follow.

Summer (June-August): Beat the Heat

Dawn Patrol: On the water by 5:30 AM, off by 10 AM. Afternoon trips start at 6 PM.

Go Deep or Go Home: Freshwater fish seek thermoclines. Coastal fish hunt deeper grass edges.

Night Bite: Some of my best catches come after dark. Lights attract bait, bait attracts predators.

Fall (September-November): Feeding Frenzy

This is why we suffer through summer. Cooling water triggers feeding across all species.

Coastal Magic: Bull red run, flounder migration, and trout feast on shrimp Freshwater Transition: Bass chase shad to backs of creeks. Follow the birds.

Winter (December-February): Quality Over Quantity

Slow Down: Cold water means lethargic fish. Slow presentations catch more.

Deep and Slow: Fish concentrate in deeper holes. Find them, catch them.

Best Bite: Warmest part of day, usually 1-4 PM.

Advanced Texas Kayak Fishing Techniques

Sight Fishing Shallow Flats

The first time you spot a 30-inch red in 8 inches of water, your hands will shake. Here's how to seal the deal:

Approach: Upwind/up-current, slow and quiet
Cast: Lead fish by 2-3 feet, let lure sink
Retrieve: Slow twitch when fish is near
Fight: Keep rod low, let fish run

Working Structure from a Kayak

Without electronics, finding underwater structure requires observation:

Birds: Diving birds mean baitfish over structure
Current Breaks: Visible swirls indicate underwater objects
Depth Changes: Paddle blade touches indicate drops

Texas Rigging Mastery

The Texas rig catches fish everywhere, but subtle tweaks make it deadly:

Weight: 1/8 oz for shallow, 1/4 oz for 5-10 feet, 3/8 oz for deeper
Hook: Wide gap for bulky plastics, straight shank for sleek baits
Color: Green pumpkin (clear water), black/blue (stained), white (reaction)

Local Regulations and Etiquette

License Requirements:

Freshwater license for inland
Saltwater stamp for coast
All-water license covers both

Limits and Seasons: Check TPWD website for current regulations. They change, especially for flounder and spotted seatrout.

Kayak Etiquette:

Don't crowd wade fishermen
Give other kayakers space
Pack out all trash (including others')
Respect private property

Planning Your Texas Kayak Fishing Adventure

Multi-Day Trips

Some of Texas's best fishing requires commitment. Here's how to plan:

Devils River Example:

Reserve camping through Texas Parks & Wildlife
Arrange shuttle (limited services)
Pack minimal, efficient gear
Plan 15-20 miles per day
Bring water purification

Weather Windows

Best Overall: April and October - mild weather, active fish

Avoid:

August afternoon (dangerous heat)
January cold fronts (hypothermia risk)
Hurricane season peaks (August-September coast)

Finding Local Intel

Resources:

Texas Kayak Fisherman forum
Local fly shops (even for conventional tackle)
Bait shops near launches
TPWD fishing reports

FAQ Section

What's the best overall month for kayak fishing in Texas?

April takes the crown. Bass are spawning in freshwater, coastal species are active, weather is perfect, and crowds haven't arrived. I book vacation days in April and fish somewhere different each day.

Do I need different kayaks for freshwater and saltwater?

Not necessarily, but rinse thoroughly after saltwater use. I use the same kayak for both but am religious about maintenance. Proper cleaning extends kayak life significantly.

What's the biggest fish you can realistically catch from a kayak in Texas?

I've personally landed a 47-inch bull redfish and a 50-pound blue catfish from my kayak. Bigger fish are out there, but these tested my skills and equipment to the limit.

Are Texas waters safe for kayak fishing year-round?

Yes, with proper preparation. Summer requires sun protection and hydration. Winter needs appropriate clothing. Spring and fall are ideal but watch for sudden weather changes.

What's the best Texas lake for beginner kayak anglers?

Lady Bird Lake in Austin. No motorboats, consistent fish, easy access, and if something goes wrong, you're in the middle of a city. Perfect training ground.

How do you handle wind on big Texas lakes?

Start upwind, fish back to launch. If wind exceeds 15 mph, I find protected coves or reschedule. A drift sock helps control speed when wind is manageable.

What's the most underrated fishing spot in Texas?

The Colorado River between Austin and the coast. Multiple personality changes from hill country stream to coastal river, minimal pressure, excellent fishing.

Do you need electronics for kayak fishing in Texas?

Helpful but not essential. I fished five years without electronics and caught plenty. Good polarized sunglasses and knowledge of structure trump electronics in shallow water.

What about alligators in East Texas?

They're there but rarely problematic. Make noise landing fish, don't fish near nests (spring), and never feed them. I've fished around hundreds without incident.

Best budget setup for Texas kayak fishing?

Used sit-on-top kayak ($300-500), two rod holders ($30), milk crate for gear ($10), and quality PFD ($75). Under $500 gets you fishing.

Final Thoughts

After exploring Texas waters from the Panhandle to the Gulf, from the Piney Woods to the Rio Grande, I can say without hesitation that Texas offers the most diverse kayak fishing in America. Every trip teaches me something new, whether it's a hidden honey hole on a familiar lake or an entirely new species in unexplored water.

The beauty of kayak fishing in Texas isn't just the variety - it's the accessibility. You don't need an expensive bass boat or coastal bay boat. A simple kayak opens up thousands of miles of fishing that most anglers never experience. Some of my most memorable catches came from waters where I hadn't seen another angler all day.

Remember, the best fishing spot is the one you can get to. Texas has so many options that you're never more than an hour from good fishing, regardless of where you live. Start with the closest water, learn its moods and patterns, then expand your range.

The texas fishing secrets I've shared come from thousands of hours on the water, but they're just the beginning. Every body of water has its own personality, its own patterns, its own secrets waiting to be discovered. That's what keeps me loading the kayak before dawn, searching for the next perfect spot.

Whether you're chasing your personal best bass, your first redfish on fly, or simply enjoying a sunset paddle with a rod in hand, Texas waters deliver. The fish are waiting - all you need to do is launch.

See you on the water!