Damn Good Lake Fishing Guides In Houston

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Recently Booked Lake Fishing Guides In Houston, Tx

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Houston

4-Hour Bowfishing Trip

60% (5)
21 ft 1 - 8 People From $750
Bucket List
The Captain Experiences team chose this trip as one for the bucket list.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Houston

"Alpha" Alligator Gar Bowfishing

60% (5)
1 - 4 People From $4,200
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Houston

Trophy Alligator Gar Bowfishing

60% (5)
23 ft 1 - 8 People From $1,250
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Houston

Alligator Gar On Rod & Reel

60% (5)
23 ft 1 - 8 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Houston

3 Day Alligator Gar Bowfishing

60% (5)
23 ft 1 - 8 People From $3,400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip in Houston

Monster Gar On Rod And Reel

60% (5)
23 ft 1 - 8 People From $750

Top Types of Lake Trips in Houston

Top Species for Lake Fishing in Houston

“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 Houston

View Full Species Seasonality Chart »
  • Get it while it's HOT!
  • This species is in play.
  • You might get lucky (as long as things are in-season).
  • Couldn't tell ya! (no data)

More Lake Fishing Guides In Houston, Tx

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip near Houston

Alligator Gar Fishing Near Houston

100% (4)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $850
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip near Houston

Fishing Lake Nacogdoches

100% (2)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip near Houston

Big Ol' Flathead Catfish Catch

NEW
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip near Houston

Half Day Catfish Trip

NEW
20 ft 1 - 4 People From $300
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip near Houston

Half Day Lake Conroe

100% (9)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip near Houston

Lake Livingston Full Day

100% (2)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $400
See All Lake Trips in Houston

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Everything to Know About Booking a fishing trip in Houston

What are the best lake fishing trips in Houston?

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

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 6 lake trips in Houston, and the most popular trips in the area are 4-Hour Bowfishing Trip guided by Mark, 3 Day Alligator Gar Bowfishing guided by Mark, and Trophy Alligator Gar Bowfishing guided by Mark.

Our guides in Houston are rated a 4.83 out of 5 based on 3789 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 Houston? Check out our beginner and family friendly lake guides in Houston.

What types of lake fishing trips are common in Houston?

The most commonly sought after species for lake fishing are: 1. alligator gar, 2. blue catfish, 3. largemouth bass, 4. carp, and 5. spotted gar.

The most common fishing techniques in Houston are bowfishing, bottom fishing, and light tackle fishing but cut bait fishing and heavy tackle fishing are popular as well.

How much does a Houston lake fishing trip cost?

Prices for lake fishing in Houston can range anywhere from about $430 to $3,880, but the average price for a half day trip for lake fishing in Houston is $705. The average price for a full day trip for lake fishing in Houston is $2,059.

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 Houston?

The most popular season for lake fishing in Houston is spring, and most anglers book their trips 73 days in advance.

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

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

What is lake fishing in Houston all about?

Lake fishing in Houston offers anglers a diverse range of opportunities amidst the bustling cityscape and its surrounding areas. Houston is home to several reservoirs, lakes, and bayous that provide excellent freshwater fishing experiences. Commonly targeted species include largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and sunfish, each offering its own unique appeal and challenge for anglers of all skill levels.

Largemouth bass are perhaps the most sought-after fish in Houston's lakes and reservoirs, prized for their size, strength, and aggressive strikes. Anglers often target bass using a variety of techniques such as casting with artificial lures like crankbaits, spinnerbaits, or soft plastics. Fishing for bass can be productive year-round, with peak seasons typically in spring and fall when bass are more active and move closer to shore to spawn or feed. Houston's reservoirs, such as Lake Houston and Lake Conroe, are popular destinations for bass fishing enthusiasts seeking trophy-sized catches.

Catfish are another popular species among lake anglers in Houston, known for their willingness to bite and delicious table fare. Channels, blues, and flatheads are commonly found in Houston's lakes and bayous, where they can be targeted using techniques such as bottom fishing with cut bait, worms, or stinkbaits. Catfish are particularly active during warmer months and can be caught throughout the day and night, making them a favorite among anglers looking for a relaxing fishing experience.

Crappie and sunfish provide additional opportunities for anglers to enjoy lake fishing in Houston. These panfish species are abundant in many of Houston's lakes and bayous, where they can be targeted using light tackle and finesse techniques such as jigging with small jigs or fishing with live bait like minnows or worms. Fishing for crappie and sunfish is popular year-round, with spring and early summer often being the best times to catch larger specimens as they move into shallower waters to spawn. Overall, lake fishing in Houston offers a variety of species to target and a range of techniques to suit different preferences, ensuring an enjoyable and rewarding fishing experience for anglers in this vibrant Texas city.

What are the most popular months to go jetty fishing in Houston?

Lake fishing in Houston, Texas, experiences distinct seasonal variations that influence fish behavior and angling opportunities throughout the year. Spring marks the start of prime fishing season as water temperatures warm up, triggering spawning activities and increased feeding among many species. Largemouth bass, in particular, become more active during this time as they move into shallower waters to spawn. Anglers often target bass using techniques such as casting with crankbaits, spinnerbaits, or soft plastics around submerged vegetation and structure-rich areas. Spring also provides excellent opportunities for crappie fishing, as these fish move into shallow waters to spawn and can be targeted using jigs or live minnows.

Summer brings warmer temperatures to Houston's lakes, influencing fish behavior and angling tactics. Early mornings and late evenings are typically the best times to fish during the summer months, when water temperatures are cooler and fish are more active. Catfish, including channel, blue, and flathead species, are particularly active during this season and can be caught using techniques such as bottom fishing with cut bait, worms, or prepared baits. Summer is also a good time for sunfish fishing, with species like bluegill and redear sunfish abundant in many of Houston's lakes and bayous.

Fall heralds a transition period in Houston's lake fishing, characterized by cooling temperatures and changing fish behavior. Largemouth bass continue to be a popular target as they feed voraciously in preparation for winter. Anglers often adjust their strategies to match the movements of bass as they migrate to deeper waters or seek out cooler temperatures. Fall also offers continued opportunities for catfish and crappie fishing, as these species remain active and can be caught using similar techniques as earlier in the year. Overall, lake fishing in Houston provides anglers with a dynamic and rewarding experience throughout the seasons, offering ample opportunities to enjoy the thrill of freshwater fishing amidst the urban landscape of Texas' largest city.

What techniques are popular for jetty fishing in Houston?

Lake fishing in Houston, Texas, offers a variety of types and techniques tailored to the diverse freshwater species found in its lakes, reservoirs, and bayous. One popular method is bass fishing, particularly targeting largemouth bass, which are abundant and prized for their size and aggressive nature. Anglers often use techniques such as casting with artificial lures like crankbaits, spinnerbaits, or soft plastics around submerged structures, weed beds, and drop-offs to entice strikes from bass. Techniques such as flipping and pitching into cover or slow retrieves along the edges of vegetation are effective in catching these sportfish.

Catfish fishing is another favorite among lake anglers in Houston, with species like channel, blue, and flathead catfish providing exciting fishing opportunities year-round. Anglers commonly use bottom fishing techniques with cut bait, worms, or stinkbaits to target catfish, which are often found in deeper holes, undercuts, or along channel edges. Catfish are known for their strong fights and are particularly active during warmer months when they feed more aggressively. Fishing for catfish can be relaxing and productive, making it a popular choice for anglers of all ages and experience levels.

Crappie and sunfish also offer enjoyable fishing experiences in Houston's lakes and reservoirs. Crappies, in particular, are prized for their tasty fillets and can be caught using techniques such as jigging with small jigs or fishing with live minnows around submerged brush piles, docks, or bridge pilings. Sunfish species like bluegill and redear sunfish provide fun fishing opportunities for families and beginners. They are often found near shorelines, docks, or submerged vegetation where they feed on insects and small organisms. Fishing for crappie and sunfish is accessible and rewarding, offering anglers a chance to relax and enjoy the outdoors amidst Houston's urban environment.

What species are popular for jetty fishing in Houston?

When lake fishing in Houston, Texas, anglers have the opportunity to target a variety of freshwater species that thrive in its lakes, reservoirs, and bayous. Largemouth bass are perhaps the most popular species sought after by anglers, prized for their size, strength, and aggressive strikes. These predatory fish can be found around submerged structures, weed beds, and drop-offs, where they ambush their prey. Techniques such as casting with crankbaits, spinnerbaits, or soft plastics are effective in enticing strikes from bass, particularly during their active feeding periods in spring and fall.

Catfish are another prominent species targeted by lake anglers in Houston. Channel, blue, and flathead catfish are commonly found in deeper holes, undercuts, or along channel edges, where they feed on a variety of baits, including cut bait, worms, or stinkbaits. Catfish provide year-round fishing opportunities and are known for their strong fights and delicious flesh, making them a popular choice among anglers seeking a rewarding catch.

Crappie fishing is also highly favored in Houston's lakes and reservoirs, especially during the cooler months. These panfish are known for their tasty white meat and can be targeted using techniques such as jigging with small jigs or fishing with live minnows around submerged structures such as brush piles or docks. Crappies are often found in schools, making it possible to catch multiple fish in a single outing. Additionally, sunfish species like bluegill and redear sunfish offer enjoyable fishing experiences, particularly for families and beginners looking to have fun catching fish from shorelines, docks, or shallow areas with vegetation. Overall, lake fishing in Houston provides anglers with a diverse range of species to target and a variety of techniques to suit different preferences and fishing conditions throughout the year.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Fantastic morning with Richard bringing in catfish by the dozens. Very helpful, informative, and easy to get along with. I highly recommend him for your next trip out on Lake Conroe.

    Kirk M. | October 20, 2024

    Trip: Half Day Lake Conroe

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Richard was great! Myself being an experience bass fisherman, He was very informative. He put us on some bass even when the bite wasn't great! We will definitely be back!

    Bill J. | April 9, 2024

    Trip: Half Day Lake Conroe

  • ★★★★★
    Very satisfied with the trip we did with Mark. He was very knowledge and worked hard to get us in the fish. Very personable with a great attitude, and the supplied gear worked great. Would not hesitate to book with him again!!!

    Jason H. | November 29, 2023

    Trip: 4-Hour Bowfishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Mark is the outfitter every serious bowfisher wants. He won’t quit until he puts you on fish. Very very knowledgeable and a trip that we will never forget! We will be back!

    Kale G. | April 16, 2023

    Trip: Trophy Alligator Gar Bowfishing

  • ★★★★★
    Terrific day exploring the lake and catching a mess of catfish - well worth it - very pleased!

    Bruce H. | October 23, 2022

    Trip: Half Day Lake Conroe

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent fishing trip with Captain Richard. He is a very knowledgeable fishing guide with a great personality. We caught about 60 catfish in under 2 hours. He then gave us a boat tour of the Lake Conroe shoreline since it was our first time on the lake.

    Carlos C. | October 14, 2022

    Trip: Half Day Lake Conroe

  • ★★★★★
    Third trip this morning, and Richard was again a GREAT guide. He’s punctual, super friendly and very knowledgeable. He takes us exactly where we need to be and we catch tons of fish. We will definitely book with them again!

    Camille W. | June 20, 2022

    Trip: Half Day Lake Conroe

  • ★★★★★
    Fantastic day on the water with Richard! Knowledgeable, professional and fun. Second time using CE, and not the last.

    Camille W. | April 10, 2022

    Trip: Half Day Lake Conroe

  • ★★★★★
    Richard was awesome, he was very knowledgeable and loves what he is doing. He made our trip fun and exciting because of this. We caught some very nice striped bass. My largest I have ever caught. Great experience! Would definitely book a trip with him when down here again. Darcy and Bob

    Darcy W. | March 7, 2022

    Trip: Half Day Lake Conroe

  • ★★★★★
    Great captain, great time!

    Camille W. | December 2, 2021

    Trip: Half Day Lake Conroe

  • ★★★★★
    Our trip was perfect Richard is very knowledgeable of the lake and the fish behaviors if you want to catch a limit of fish you won’t be disappointed

    Otis W. | February 6, 2021

    Trip: Half Day Lake Conroe

Other Types of Fishing in Houston

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