Damn Good Lake Buchanan Fishing Guides

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Lake Buchanan fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

Choose a Date
Choose a Trip Type
5/5 Average Rating

Damn Good Guides

Experts Available 24/7

100% Weather Guarantee

Recently Booked Fishing Guides In Lake Buchanan

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Austin

Central Texas Hawgs

100% (1)
22 ft 1 - 10 People From $400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Austin

Chasing Bassquatch Texas Bass Trip

NEW
19 ft 1 - 2 People From $440
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Bastrop

Lake Bastrop Bass Fishing

100% (2)
18 ft 1 - 2 People From $400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Spicewood

Austin Bass "Tournament" Trip

100% (2)
18 ft 1 - 2 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Burnet

Lake Buchanan Special

100% (1)
22 ft 1 - 6 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Belton

Stillhouse Lake Bass Fishing

100% (2)
18 ft 1 - 2 People From $400

Top Types of Trips in Lake Buchanan

Top Species for Fishing in Lake Buchanan

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

More Fishing Guides In Lake Buchanan

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Spicewood

Private Boat Ramp On Lake Travis

100% (2)
18 ft 1 - 2 People From $400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Tow

Captain John’s Morning Trip

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Tow

Captain John’s Evening Trip

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Belton

Stillhouse Lake Bass Fishing

100% (2)
18 ft 1 - 2 People From $400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Burnet

Lake Buchanan Special

100% (1)
22 ft 1 - 6 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Spicewood

Austin Bass "Tournament" Trip

100% (2)
18 ft 1 - 2 People From $500
See All Trips in Lake Buchanan

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Guide in Lake Buchanan

What are the best fishing trips in Lake Buchanan?

Why should I book a fishing trip in Lake Buchanan with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 11 trips in Lake Buchanan, and the most popular trips in the area are Central Texas Hawgs guided by Bryan, Chasing Bassquatch Texas Bass Trip guided by Ander, and Captain John’s Morning Trip guided by John.

Our guides in Lake Buchanan are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3716 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly guides / fishing lessons in Lake Buchanan? Check out our beginner and family friendly guides in Lake Buchanan.

What types of fishing trips are common in Lake Buchanan?

Lake fishing is the most popular type of fishing in Lake Buchanan as well as inshore fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in Lake Buchanan are: 1. largemouth bass, 2. white bass, 3. striped bass, 4. blue catfish, and 5. hybrid striped bass.

The most common fishing techniques in Lake Buchanan are artificial lure fishing, light tackle fishing, and trolling but live bait fishing and bottom fishing are popular as well.

How much does a Lake Buchanan fishing trip cost?

Prices in Lake Buchanan can range anywhere from about $400 to $1,400, but the average price for a half day trip in Lake Buchanan is $673. The average price for a full day trip in Lake Buchanan is $1,079.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for fishing in Lake Buchanan?

The most popular season for fishing in Lake Buchanan is spring, and most anglers book their trips 26 days in advance.

Do I need a Lake Buchanan fishing license and what are the bag limits in Lake Buchanan?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Lake Buchanan, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Lake Buchanan. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Lake Buchanan.

What is fishing in Lake Buchanan all about?

Fishing in Lake Buchanan offers anglers a serene and rewarding experience amidst the scenic beauty of the Texas Hill Country. As the second-largest of the Highland Lakes, Lake Buchanan spans over 22,000 acres and provides ample opportunities for both recreational and tournament fishing. The lake's clear waters, rocky shorelines, and abundant aquatic vegetation create ideal habitats for a variety of freshwater fish species, making it a popular destination for anglers of all ages and skill levels.

One of the most sought-after species in Lake Buchanan is the striped bass, known locally as "striper." These powerful game fish are stocked annually by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and can grow to impressive sizes in the lake's fertile waters. Anglers often target striped bass by trolling with live bait or artificial lures along the lake's main river channel and submerged humps. The thrill of hooking into a trophy-sized striper amidst the stunning backdrop of the Texas Hill Country makes fishing in Lake Buchanan an unforgettable experience for anglers.

In addition to striped bass, Lake Buchanan offers opportunities to catch a variety of other freshwater species, including largemouth bass, white bass, catfish, and crappie. Largemouth bass are abundant in the lake and can be found lurking around submerged vegetation, boat docks, and rocky points. White bass, also known as "sandies," provide exciting action for anglers during their annual spawning runs in the spring. Catfish and crappie can be targeted year-round using a variety of techniques, including bait fishing, jigging, and trolling. Whether you're chasing trophy-sized stripers or enjoying a day of panfishing with the family, Lake Buchanan offers something for every angler to enjoy amidst the natural splendor of the Texas Hill Country.

What are the most popular months to fish in Lake Buchanan?

Fishing seasons in Lake Buchanan, nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, offer anglers a dynamic and rewarding experience throughout the year. Spring heralds the beginning of the fishing season, as warming temperatures stimulate fish activity and spawning behavior. This time of year presents prime opportunities to target species like largemouth bass, white bass, and crappie as they move into shallower waters to reproduce. Anglers often find success using a variety of techniques, from casting with artificial lures to fishing with live bait near shoreline structures and submerged vegetation.

Summer in Lake Buchanan brings warmer water temperatures and longer days, creating ideal conditions for pursuing a variety of fish species. Striped bass, or stripers, are a popular target during this season, as they cruise the deeper waters of the lake in search of prey. Anglers often employ trolling techniques with deep-diving lures or fishing with live bait to entice these powerful fish. Additionally, summer offers ample opportunities for catching catfish, sunfish, and other panfish species, providing anglers with a diverse range of fishing experiences.

As fall approaches and temperatures begin to cool, fishing in Lake Buchanan remains fruitful, with fish actively feeding in preparation for the winter months. This season presents excellent opportunities to target largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish as they feed voraciously to build up their energy reserves. The changing foliage adds to the scenic beauty of the lake, creating a picturesque backdrop for anglers to enjoy while casting lines and reeling in their prized catches. Overall, fishing in Lake Buchanan offers year-round excitement and enjoyment for anglers of all ages and skill levels.

What types of fishing are popular in Lake Buchanan?

Fishing in Lake Buchanan presents anglers with a diverse array of opportunities to pursue their favorite catches amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Texas Hill Country. One popular method is trolling for striped bass, also known as "striper." These prized game fish inhabit the lake's main river channel and are often targeted by anglers using downriggers or planer boards to present live bait or artificial lures at varying depths. The thrill of hooking into a hard-fighting striper amidst the tranquil waters and scenic vistas of Lake Buchanan is a highlight for many anglers seeking an adrenaline-pumping fishing adventure.

Another popular type of fishing in Lake Buchanan is bass fishing, particularly for largemouth bass. These iconic freshwater predators are abundant in the lake and can be found lurking around submerged vegetation, rocky points, and boat docks. Anglers often target largemouth bass using a variety of techniques, including casting soft plastic worms, crankbaits, or topwater lures. Whether fishing from a boat, kayak, or the shoreline, bass fishing in Lake Buchanan offers anglers an exciting and rewarding experience in a stunning natural setting.

In addition to striped bass and largemouth bass, Lake Buchanan provides opportunities to catch other freshwater species such as white bass, catfish, and crappie. White bass, also known as "sandies," are highly sought after by anglers during their annual spawning runs in the spring, offering exciting action and plentiful catches. Catfish and crappie can be targeted year-round using a variety of baits and techniques, making them ideal targets for anglers looking for a more relaxed and leisurely fishing experience. Whether you're trolling for stripers, casting for bass, or panfishing for catfish, Lake Buchanan offers something for every angler to enjoy amidst the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country.

What species are popular in Lake Buchanan?

Lake Buchanan, situated in the picturesque Texas Hill Country, offers anglers a diverse range of fish species to target throughout the year. One of the most sought-after species in the lake is the striped bass, also known as stripers. These voracious predators can be found prowling the deeper waters of the lake, making them a challenging but rewarding catch for anglers. Using techniques such as trolling with deep-diving lures or fishing with live bait like shad or sunfish can entice these powerful fish to strike. Striped bass fishing in Lake Buchanan provides anglers with thrilling battles and the opportunity to reel in trophy-sized fish.

Largemouth bass are another prized species in Lake Buchanan, offering anglers ample opportunities for exciting catches. These freshwater game fish are known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights, making them a favorite among anglers of all skill levels. Largemouth bass can be found lurking around submerged structures, brush piles, and weed beds throughout the lake. Anglers often use a variety of techniques, including casting with artificial lures or fishing with live bait such as worms or minnows, to target these elusive predators.

In addition to striped bass and largemouth bass, Lake Buchanan also supports populations of crappie, catfish, sunfish, and white bass. Crappie are commonly found near submerged brush piles and other structures, offering anglers a fun and challenging fishing experience. Catfish, including channel catfish and blue catfish, can be targeted using a variety of baits such as stinkbait, liver, or cut bait. Sunfish, including bluegill and redear sunfish, provide excellent action for anglers of all ages and skill levels. Whether targeting stripers, bass, or panfish, Lake Buchanan offers anglers a rewarding fishing experience amidst the scenic beauty of the Texas Hill Country.

Does Lake Buchanan have good fishing?

Lake Buchanan, located in the Texas Hill Country, is a favorite destination for anglers seeking a serene freshwater fishing experience. As the second largest of the Highland Lakes chain, Lake Buchanan covers over 22,000 acres and offers a variety of fishing opportunities year-round. Anglers can target a diverse range of fish species including striped bass, white bass, largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie. The lake's clear waters and numerous coves, points, and submerged structures provide ample habitat for these species, making it a popular spot for both recreational and competitive fishing.

Fishing conditions on Lake Buchanan vary with the seasons, influencing the best techniques and locations for catching different species. Spring and fall are typically prime times for bass fishing, as fish become more active in preparation for spawning or cooler temperatures. Anglers often find success casting near underwater structures and along rocky shorelines during these seasons. Summer months bring warmer water temperatures, prompting striped bass and white bass to school in deeper sections of the lake, where trolling and live bait fishing are effective methods for targeting these popular game fish. Winter can be productive for crappie and catfish, particularly near submerged brush piles and deeper channels.

Beyond its fishing appeal, Lake Buchanan offers a peaceful retreat into the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country, with opportunities for camping, boating, and wildlife viewing. Anglers can enjoy not only the thrill of catching trophy fish but also the scenic vistas and abundant wildlife that characterize this picturesque lake. Local marinas, fishing guides, and bait shops provide amenities and expertise to enhance the fishing experience, catering to both casual anglers and dedicated fishing enthusiasts alike. Whether you're casting from a boat, kayak, or the shoreline, Lake Buchanan promises memorable fishing adventures and a chance to connect with nature in one of Texas' most scenic settings.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    We had an awesome trip with Captain John! He was an absolute pro and knew where to take us to find the schools. Even with less-than-perfect conditions, John put us right on top of the action. We caught a huge variety — stripers, white bass, drum, and some catfish! All six of us landed several fish and had a fantastic time out on the water. John filleted our catch at the dock, and we made ceviche the same day. Highly recommend booking with Captain John.

    Collin P. | November 3, 2024

    Trip: Captain John’s Morning Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Bryan got us hooked onto over a dozen Bass! He was knowledgeable of all the fishing holes and techniques. We had a great time and good laughs! Highly recommend.

    Kim H. | April 9, 2024

    Trip: Central Texas Hawgs

  • ★★★★★
    CaptaIn Jackie was outstanding I’ll use him again for sure.

    Steve M. | March 11, 2024

    Trip: Lake Buchanan Special

  • ★★★★★
    My son and I recently went on a guided trip with Derek and we could not be happier! Originally we were scheduled for Lake Austin, but Derek had gotten some news that we should hit Lake Travis instead, and it definitely paid off! His knowledge of the lake and guidance with us novice fishermen (and just a good guy all around) led to some fun results!

    Logan G. | March 13, 2023

    Trip: Lake Austin Bass Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Derek did a great job. Even though the weather was a little cold and the fish weren’t too hungry, we hit multiple different spots and everyone on the trip landed something! We also nearly landed a 25 pound mega catfish that would’ve been a personal best! All in all, awesome day, awesome guide.

    Ian O. | February 14, 2023

    Trip: Lake Austin Bass Fishing

Top Targeted Fishing Species in Lake Buchanan

Top Fishing Techniques in Lake Buchanan

Top Types of Fishing in Lake Buchanan

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

Our guides are Damn Good Guides, which means they’re vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick each and every one of them, and our network spans all across the US and beyond.

The proof is in the pudding, and we’re incredibly proud of our 4.9 / 5 average review score. Hit the button below to see more trip options:

See All Trips in Lake Buchanan