Damn Good Lake Fishing Guides In Austin

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Recently Booked Lake Fishing Guides In Austin, Tx

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
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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

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Austin

Carp On The Fly - Austin, TX

100% (3)
1 - 2 People From $300
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Austin

2 Days On OH Ivie Chasing Big Bass

NEW
19 ft 1 - 2 People From $1,700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Austin

Town Lake Bass Trip

100% (20)
1 - 3 People From $450
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Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Austin

After Work Bass Slam

100% (9)
19 ft 1 - 2 People From $300

Top Types of Lake Trips in Austin

Top Species for Lake Fishing in Austin

“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

Target Species in Austin

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  • Get it while it's HOT!
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More Lake Fishing Guides In Austin, Tx

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Austin

Euro Carp Trip - Austin, TX

100% (3)
1 - 2 People From $300
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Austin

Texas Bass And Drum On The Fly

100% (1)
1 - 2 People From $300
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Austin

Private Bass "Tournament" Trip

100% (9)
19 ft 1 - 2 People From $350
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Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Austin

Lake Travis Bass Fishing

100% (9)
19 ft 1 - 2 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Austin

Carp And Buffalo On The Fly

100% (1)
1 - 2 People From $300
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Austin

3 Days Of O.H. Ivie Magic

NEW
19 ft 1 - 2 People From $2,400
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Everything to Know About Booking a fishing trip in Austin

What are the best lake fishing trips in Austin?

Why should I book a lake fishing trip in Austin with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 29 lake trips in Austin, and the most popular trips in the area are Central Texas Hawgs guided by Bryan, Carp On The Fly - Austin, TX guided by Kevin, and 2 Days on OH Ivie Chasing Big Bass guided by Ander.

Our guides in Austin are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3784 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 lake guides / fishing lessons in Austin? Check out our beginner and family friendly lake guides in Austin.

What types of lake fishing trips are common in Austin?

The most commonly sought after species for lake fishing are: 1. largemouth bass, 2. white bass, 3. guadalupe bass, 4. smallmouth bass, and 5. carp.

The most common fishing techniques in Austin are light tackle fishing, artificial lure fishing, and topwater fishing but sight casting and live bait fishing are popular as well.

How much does an Austin lake fishing trip cost?

Prices for lake fishing in Austin can range anywhere from about $350 to $1,420, but the average price for a half day trip for lake fishing in Austin is $658. The average price for a full day trip for lake fishing in Austin is $749.

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 lake fishing in Austin?

The most popular season for lake fishing in Austin is spring, and most anglers book their trips 20 days in advance.

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

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

What is lake fishing in Austin all about?

Lake fishing in Austin, Texas, offers anglers a variety of experiences across its numerous lakes, each known for different species and fishing techniques. Lady Bird Lake, nestled in downtown Austin, is a popular spot for urban fishing enthusiasts. Known for its scenic views of the Austin skyline, this lake is abundant with largemouth bass, sunfish, and catfish. Anglers often utilize kayak fishing or shore casting with live bait or artificial lures to target these species. The lake's calm waters and accessible shoreline make it an ideal location for both novice and experienced anglers looking to enjoy a relaxing day on the water.

Lake Travis, located northwest of Austin, is another prominent destination known for its expansive waters and diverse fishing opportunities. This reservoir offers a chance to catch a variety of fish species, including striped bass, white bass, and crappie. Anglers often employ techniques such as trolling with deep-diving lures or live bait fishing near underwater structures and drop-offs to entice these game fish. Lake Travis's clear blue waters and scenic Hill Country surroundings provide a picturesque backdrop for fishing adventures, attracting both locals and visitors seeking a memorable day outdoors.

For anglers seeking a quieter fishing experience, Lake Austin offers a serene setting with opportunities to catch largemouth bass, sunfish, and carp. This lake, formed by the Colorado River, winds through the scenic Texas Hill Country, providing ample shoreline access and opportunities for kayak or boat fishing. Anglers often use topwater lures or soft plastics to target bass in the lake's shallow and weedy areas, while carp fishing enthusiasts find success using corn or dough balls as bait. Whether fishing from shore, a boat, or a kayak, Lake Austin offers a tranquil escape within close proximity to Austin's vibrant city life, making it a favored spot for fishing enthusiasts of all ages.

What techniques are popular for lake fishing in Austin?

Lake fishing in Austin, Texas, follows a seasonal pattern influenced by water temperature changes and fish behavior throughout the year. Spring marks the beginning of an active fishing season as temperatures rise and fish become more active. Largemouth bass, sunfish, and catfish are popular targets during this time, especially in shallower waters where they spawn and feed. Anglers often use techniques such as casting with soft plastics, crankbaits, or live bait to entice these fish. Spring also sees an increase in fishing tournaments and events around Austin's lakes, drawing enthusiasts eager to capitalize on the seasonal abundance.

Summer brings peak fishing activity to Austin's lakes, with warmer water temperatures prompting fish to move deeper or seek shaded areas during the hottest parts of the day. Species like striped bass and white bass become more active and are often found near drop-offs, submerged structures, or areas with cooler water temperatures. Anglers adjust their techniques accordingly, using trolling with deep-diving lures, live bait fishing, or fishing at night to target these species. Despite the heat, early mornings and late evenings remain optimal times for fishing, offering cooler conditions and increased fish activity.

Fall ushers in a change in fishing dynamics as water temperatures begin to cool, prompting fish to feed more actively in preparation for winter. Largemouth bass continue to be a primary target, often moving to shallower waters again as they chase baitfish. Crappie also become more prominent near submerged brush piles and docks. Anglers adjust their tactics, focusing on finesse techniques such as jigging with small lures or minnows or using live bait under floats. Fall fishing in Austin's lakes offers a pleasant contrast with milder temperatures and vibrant foliage, making it a favored time for anglers to enjoy the outdoors before winter sets in. Each season brings its own fishing opportunities and challenges, ensuring that lake fishing in Austin remains a popular and rewarding pastime year-round.

What techniques are popular for jetty fishing in Fort Pierce?

Lake fishing in Austin offers anglers a variety of techniques and approaches to suit different fishing preferences and target species. One popular method is bass fishing, particularly targeting largemouth bass, which are abundant in lakes like Lake Travis, Lake Austin, and Lady Bird Lake. Anglers often use techniques such as flipping and pitching with soft plastic baits or jigging with crankbaits and spinnerbaits to entice these prized game fish. Bass fishing in Austin's lakes requires a good understanding of fish behavior as well as knowledge of where bass are likely to be found around submerged structures, drop-offs, and weed beds.

Another popular type of lake fishing in Austin is catfish fishing, which appeals to anglers seeking a more relaxed and leisurely fishing experience. Catfish, including channel catfish and blue catfish, can be found in abundance in various lakes throughout the area. Anglers typically use bottom fishing techniques with stink baits, chicken liver, or worms to attract catfish, targeting them near deep holes, creek channels, or areas with submerged vegetation. Catfish are often active throughout the year, making them a reliable target for anglers looking to enjoy a day of fishing without the need for specialized equipment or techniques.

Crappie fishing is also a favorite among lake anglers in Austin, particularly on lakes like Lake Travis and Lake Austin. Crappies are known for their delicious white meat and can be caught using techniques such as jigging with small jigs or minnows around submerged brush piles, docks, or other structures. Anglers often fish for crappie during the spring and fall when they are more active and congregate in schools. Crappie fishing requires patience and finesse, as anglers carefully maneuver their baits to attract these sometimes finicky feeders. Overall, lake fishing in Austin provides a wide range of opportunities for anglers of all skill levels and interests, ensuring a rewarding and enjoyable experience on the water throughout the year.

What species are popular for jetty fishing in Fort Pierce?

When lake fishing in Austin, anglers have a diverse array of fish species to target, each offering its own unique challenges and rewards throughout the seasons. Largemouth bass are perhaps the most sought-after species in Austin's lakes, including Lake Travis, Lake Austin, and Lady Bird Lake. Known for their aggressive strikes and fighting prowess, largemouth bass can be caught year-round using techniques such as flipping and pitching with soft plastic baits, topwater lures during dawn and dusk, or deep diving crankbaits near drop-offs and underwater structures. Spring and fall are particularly productive seasons for bass fishing, as they are more active during their spawning and feeding periods.

Catfish are another popular species to target when lake fishing in Austin. Channel catfish and blue catfish are abundant in the area's lakes, offering anglers opportunities for relaxing fishing trips with steady action. Anglers typically use bottom fishing techniques with stink baits, chicken liver, or cut bait near deep holes, creek channels, or underwater structures to attract these bottom-dwelling fish. Catfish are active throughout the year, making them a reliable target for anglers of all skill levels seeking a rewarding day on the water.

Crappie fishing is also a favorite among lake anglers in Austin, known for its tasty white meat and challenging fishing conditions. Crappie can be found in schools near submerged brush piles, docks, or other structures in lakes like Lake Travis and Lake Austin. Anglers often use small jigs, or minnows, and employ jigging techniques to entice these finicky feeders. Spring and fall are prime seasons for crappie fishing as they move into shallow waters to spawn or feed, providing anglers with ample opportunities to enjoy the thrill of hooking into these delicious panfish. Overall, lake fishing in Austin offers a rich diversity of fish species and fishing experiences, ensuring that anglers can enjoy a fulfilling and varied fishing adventure throughout the year.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Another awesome trip with Jake. This time, we headed out with Tierra from FOX 7 Austin for her Tierra's Texas Series. We caught em up, check it out here! https://www.fox7austin.com/video/1544986. Thanks Jake, good times as always. – Jonathan with Captain Experiences

    Jonathan N. | December 9, 2024

    Trip: Central Texas Bass Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Took my buddy and Tanzania-based guide Dom out with Jake and we had a blast! Jake put us on a number of nice fish. Highlight of the trip was Jake marking a fish with his live scope and Dom and I watching on the livescope as it chased Dom's swimbait and gulped it up! – Jonathan with Captain Experiences

    Jonathan N. | December 9, 2024

    Trip: Central Texas Bass Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Had some family in town for Easter and the spring bite did not disappoint. Jake had plenty of rods rigged up and got us dialed as soon as we figured out what they were hitting. Some nice fish, can't wait to get back out there! – Jonathan with Captain Experiences

    Jonathan N. | December 9, 2024

    Trip: Central Texas Bass Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    We had an epic time fishing with Jake as always. Got out there with my buddy Pat from StarterStory and we crushed it. It was Pat's first time fishing in a while but Jake put us on fish and the topwater bite was on. Will be back soon! – Jonathan with Captain Experiences

    Jonathan N. | December 9, 2024

    Trip: Central Texas Bass Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    My buddy and I had an awesome time fishing with Kevin and Lee. This was our first time carp fishing and it didn't disappoint. These guys run a great program from setting up a nice camp (with fresh coffee) to cannonball launching multiple rods with their cornmeal balls that carp love. We had numerous bites on a quick trip and landed a giant! Kevin and Lee were first class handling the fish and got some great shots for us. – Jonathan with Captain Experiences

    Jonathan N. | December 9, 2024

    Trip: Carp On The Fly - Austin, TX

  • ★★★★★
    Had a super time with Jake. Took my kiddo and his best friend out for an afternoon on Lady Bird Lake. Jake is great with youngsters and took great joy when they had their first catch. Awesome guy, awesome boat, and an awesome experience. This is my second time out with Jake and I’ll be booking with him again soon!

    Thomas H. | December 2, 2024

    Trip: Town Lake Bass Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Absolutely awesome experience. Had a fantastic time and look forward to heading out with Jake again sometime soon!

    Thomas H. | November 12, 2024

    Trip: Town Lake Bass Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Had a blast out on the lake today with Aaron. We hooked three bass our first half hour and it only got better from there. Even though my wife and I have virtually no fishing experience, Aaron was very patient and instructive. We fished in several different spots, targeted a variety of catch and got a tour of Decker Lake in a fast boat. Great guy.

    Randy S. | October 6, 2024

    Trip: Lake Walter E. Long Bass Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Real nice guy and he put me on fish no complaints

    Clayton C. | October 5, 2024

    Trip: Carp and Buffalo on the Fly

  • ★★★★★
    Had a blast. Been fishing for a while and Jake taught me a lot. Definitely knew what he was doing! Must recommend!

    Roland P. | October 3, 2024

    Trip: Central Texas Bass Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Aaron was awesome. My son and I had a great time, caught some high quality bass, and learned a lot thanks to Aaron. We are looking forward to bookingwith him again.

    Bret F. | July 29, 2024

    Trip: Lake Walter E. Long Bass Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Arron is very knowledgeable and did a great job putting us on fish. I would recommend him to anyone who lives or is visiting Austin area.

    Victor L. | July 27, 2024

    Trip: Lake Austin Bass Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Great evening of fishing. Caught 15 bass. Grant is very knowledgeable and taught this old man some tricks

    Keith A. | July 22, 2024

    Trip: Big Swim Baits for Big A** Bass

  • ★★★★★
    110% book this guy if your ever in the Austin area. This guide knows his stuff. Myself and a couple of teenagers were on fish quick and the catching lasted the entire trip. He knows the spots and the baits. Complete professional when it comes to accommodating and encouraging guests. We fished Lady Bird Lake and easily caught 40 fish in a morning trip. Most of the fish were heavy, no dinks. Step out of a downtown high rise, onto a boat deck, at Lady Bird and slay them with this guy or hit a surrounding Austin area lake if that’s your thing.

    Bernie M. | June 30, 2024

    Trip: Central Texas Bass Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Had a fantastic morning on Lake Austin with my 7-year old son and Aaron. Aaron was patient, kind and helpful and made sure my son had a very fun and relaxed atmosphere for his first experience fishing. Highly recommend Aaron as a great guide for both kids and adults!

    Wes L. | June 18, 2024

    Trip: Lake Austin Bass Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    It was a fantastic trip. Jake is really an experienced guide and was very helpful and professional. I had a great time

    Simon H. | June 2, 2024

    Trip: Central Texas Bass Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Aaron and I had a great time on the lake! Caught my first Guadelupe bass!

    Roland P. | May 27, 2024

    Trip: Lake Travis Bass Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Fantastic morning on the lake with Wyatt. We hit them hard.

    Rick W. | April 19, 2024

    Trip: Lake Travis Bass Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    We had a spectacular day fishing Lake Bastrop with Captain Aaron. His equipment is state of the art, high-tech and he put us on some nice fish. We had a great time and hope to do it again soon.

    Terry O. | April 6, 2024

    Trip: Lake Bastrop Bass Fishing

Other Types of Fishing in Austin

Other Types of Hunting in Austin

How are fishing conditions in Austin?

View Austin Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

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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:

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