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Damn Good Lake Fishing Guides In Texas

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

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Recently Booked Lake Fishing Guides In Texas

Fishing in Rowlett

Lake Fishing Trip in Rowlett

Lake Ray Hubbard White Bass+

NEW
24 ft 1 - 8 People From $411
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 Spicewood

Lake Fishing Trip in Spicewood

Central Texas Bass Fishing

100% (13)
1 - 3 People From $450
Fishing in Honey Grove

Lake Fishing Trip in Honey Grove

Lake Bois D’ Arc

67% (3)
1 - 3 People From $850
Fishing in Willis

Lake Fishing Trip in Willis

Half Day Lake Conroe

100% (8)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $350
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 Alba

Lake Fishing Trip in Alba

Trophy Chasing On Lake Fork

100% (1)
22 ft 1 - 3 People From $375
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 Lake Fork

Lake Fishing Trip in Lake Fork

Lake Fork Bass Trip

100% (2)
22 ft 1 - 2 People From $415

Top Cities for Lake Fishing in Texas

Top Types of Lake Trips in Texas

Top Species for Lake Fishing in Texas

“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 Lake Fishing Guides In Texas

Fishing in Liberty Hill
Fishing in Liberty Hill
Fishing in Liberty Hill
trip description for Central Texas Bowfishing in Liberty Hill

Prepare to bring in fish like never before on this awesome Central Texas bowfishing trip with Captain Randy! He'll take you out on the Highland Lakes in search of Gar, Carp, Freshwater Drum, Tilapia, Shad, and more! Once you're on the fish, all you need to do is whack 'em and stack 'em! Bowfishing is an experience unlike any other, so come on out and give it a try. Captain Randy will provide you and your party with all the fishing gear you will need to get out on the water and start hitting fish. Depending on the fish you're looking to bring in, he'll take you to one of his multiple honey holes on his 18' SeaArk aluminum boat, which has 10 LED lights on a deck custom-designed by Matthews Archery. This boat is well equipped for bowfishing with enough room for 4 anglers to fish at the same time, so there's no waiting your turn. Captain Randy will bring a cooler with drinks and water, but if you would like to have any other drinks or snacks be sure you bring them along with you. You are also welcome to keep your catch but make sure you bring your own ice chest to keep the fish fresh. Make sure to remember your fishing license and a good pair of shoes that can get a little dirty! Read More

Lake, River Fishing Trip in Liberty Hill

Central Texas Bowfishing

100% (2)
18 ft 1 - 6 People From $450
Fishing in San Antonio
Fishing in San Antonio
Fishing in San Antonio
trip description for Freshwater Reds - Weekday Trip in San Antonio

Come join Captain Bryan on a thrilling fishing adventure at Calaveras Lake, Texas! Located just a short drive from San Antonio, Calaveras Lake is home to a diverse array of fish, including the coveted freshwater Redfish. These fish are stocked in the lake every year, providing a totally unique opportunity for Texas anglers to catch their state's most popular saltwater gamefish without heading to the coast! After you board Bryan's 21' Carolina center console, you'll be set to go. The boat is stocked with all the necessary gear, including top-of-the-line rods, reels, and lures, as well as plenty of ice-cold drinks and snacks to keep you energized throughout the day. As you set off onto the shimmering waters of Calaveras Lake, Captain Bryan will take you to the best fishing spots, using his years of experience and local knowledge to find the biggest and most elusive Redfish. The lake is known for its clear, shallow waters and abundant vegetation, providing the perfect habitat for these prized game fish. As you cast your line into the water, you'll feel the adrenaline rush as you wait patiently for a bite. When a Redfish takes the bait, the fight is on! These hard-fighting fish will put up a good fight, testing your strength and skill as you try to reel them in. In addition, you can hook up Catfish and Striped Bass, both of which are also a blast to catch and solid table fare as well. As the day draws to a close, you'll return to the dock with memories of a lifetime and, if you're lucky, a cooler full of delicious fish to take home and share with friends and family. Why wait? Book your fishing charter with Captain Bryan now and experience the thrill of freshwater Redfish fishing at Calaveras Lake, Texas! Read More

Lake Fishing Trip in San Antonio

Freshwater Reds - Weekday Trip

100% (7)
21 ft 1 - 6 People From $300
Fishing in Austin
Fishing in Austin
Fishing in Austin
trip description for Chasing Bassquatch Texas Bass Trip in Austin

Prepare for some of the best freshwater fishing in Texas when you hop on board with Ander! Ander knows Austin’s freshwater fishing hotspots like the back of his hand and will take you right to where the fish bite. If you've been looking to set a new personal record, there's no better way than a trip with Ander. Ander usually targets Texas Black Bass, AKA Largemouth Bass, but will take advantage when conditions offer up Catfish, Panfish, Striped Bass, White Bass, or Hybrids (White Bass x Striped Bass). These trips are typically catch-and-release but you can keep your catch within state regulations if you so desire. Ander conducts these 5-hour (half-day) and 8-hour (full-day) trips on his 19’ Nitro—a state-of-the-art bass fishing boat. She's equipped with a wireless trolling motor, a 150-HP Yamaha engine, and top-quality electronics—including a Hydrowave sound emitter—to really enhance your trip! She can accommodate you and your best angling buddy, so choose wisely! While you're more than welcome to bring your own fishing equipment, Ander provides Ardent rods and reels and P-Line fishing line for anglers to enjoy on his bass trips. Make sure to bring a valid Texas Freshwater Fishing License, food and drinks of your choice, a hat, and sunscreen. Come explore this fishing paradise with Ander! Read More

Lake Fishing Trip in Austin

Chasing Bassquatch Texas Bass Trip

NEW
19 ft 1 - 2 People From $440
Fishing in Lake Whitney
Fishing in Lake Whitney
Fishing in Lake Whitney
trip description for Striper Fishing Lake Whitney in Lake Whitney

Captains Blake and Ben offer half and full-day fishing experiences on beautiful Lake Whitney, south of Dallas and Ft. Worth, and just north of Waco. They specialize in Stripers, but you can also fish for hybrids, sand bass, catfish, and crappie. Captain Blake loves fishing and enjoys good fellowship! You'll chase bites with classic light tackle cast-and-retrieve techniques, as well as drift fishing. Blake is a pro, so let him be your guide to the best baits, lures and tackle to get your personal best! You only have to bring your snacks, your preferred drinks, sunscreen, you and your crew. They have a fleet of three fishing boats between them, each equipped with the latest fishing technology and all the necessary fishing rods and tackle. Read More

Lake Fishing Trip in Lake Whitney

Striper Fishing Lake Whitney

NEW
22 ft 1 - 6 People From $400
Fishing in Houston
Fishing in Houston
Fishing in Houston
trip description for Monster Gar on Rod and Reel in Houston

Head out with Gar Master Mark for an awesome day of freshwater Garfishing! Alligator Gar are one of the most distinct fish you can find, and Mark is one of the best guides around to help you hook one. His success rate with these exciting monsters is as high as 90 percent! These hunts give you opportunities for several trophy Alligator Gar, as well as many other species. Plus your fish will be prepped for your travel home or to the taxidermist. If you’re just coming for the meat, Mark will be happy to clean and bag your filets for you. On these 6 to 7-hour trips, you and Mark will motor out on Lake Livingston where you'll be casting bait and lures for trophy-sized Alligator Gar. All deposits are final and non-refundable. However, if necessary you may reschedule your date or dates if needed due to unforeseen circumstances. Trips can also be extended at customers' request! Read More

Lake, River Fishing Trip in Houston

Monster Gar On Rod And Reel

80% (5)
23 ft 1 - 8 People From $750
Fishing in Austin
Fishing in Austin
Fishing in Austin
trip description for Central Texas Hawgs in Austin

Spring Fishing report: Several lakes are fishing good right now in the central Texas area. We are catching 15-30 or more on a half day trip on Travis, Decker, LBJ and Buchanan. There are other lakes doing good as well. There are fish shallow and deep, but the big fish are shallow right now as they are spawning or close to it. If you are after that fish of a lifetime or just bigger fish, Lake Falcon and Choke Canyon is producing some great quality fish right now. It's always a great time to get that child on some fish. I would be happy to help you do that so book your trip today! Read More

Lake Fishing Trip in Austin

Central Texas Hawgs

100% (1)
22 ft 1 - 5 People From $400
See All Lake Trips in Texas

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Everything to Know About Booking a fishing trip in Texas

What are the best lake fishing trips in Texas?

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

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 90 lake trips in Texas, and the most popular trips in the area are Lake Ray Hubbard White Bass+ guided by Brandon, Central Texas Bass Fishing guided by Jake, and Trophy Chasing on Lake Fork guided by Eddie.

Our guides in Texas are rated a 4.95 out of 5 based on 3488 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 Texas? Check out our beginner and family friendly lake guides in Texas.

What types of lake fishing trips are common in Texas?

The most commonly sought after species for lake fishing are: 1. largemouth bass, 2. white bass, 3. blue catfish, 4. crappie, and 5. striped bass.

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

How much does a Texas lake fishing trip cost?

Prices for lake fishing in Texas can range anywhere from about $375 to $1,350, but the average price for a half day trip for lake fishing in Texas is $536. The average price for a full day trip for lake fishing in Texas is $1,143.

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 Texas?

The most popular season for lake fishing in Texas is spring, and most anglers book their trips 39 days in advance.

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

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

What is lake fishing in Texas all about?

Lake fishing in Texas offers anglers a rich and varied experience across its numerous lakes and reservoirs scattered throughout the state. Texas boasts a diverse range of fish species, making it a prime destination for both recreational and competitive anglers alike. From largemouth bass and catfish to crappie, sunfish, and striped bass, each lake presents unique opportunities depending on the time of year and water conditions.

One of the most popular targets for anglers in Texas lakes is the largemouth bass, known for its aggressive strikes and impressive size. Techniques such as flipping jigs, casting topwater lures, or fishing with soft plastics near submerged structures or weed beds are effective in enticing these prized game fish. Many Texas lakes also offer excellent catfish fishing, with species like channel catfish and blue catfish abundant in both size and quantity. Anglers often use baited lines, stink baits, or cut baits fished near the bottom to attract these bottom-dwelling predators.

Crappie fishing is another highlight of lake fishing in Texas, particularly during the spring spawning season when these panfish gather in shallow waters. Techniques such as jigging with small artificial baits or fishing with live minnows near brush piles or docks can yield rewarding catches. Texas lakes also provide opportunities for striped bass fishing, with these powerful fish often found in deeper waters where they feed on shad and other baitfish. Trolling with diving plugs or casting with heavy spoons are common methods used by anglers targeting striped bass in Texas lakes.

What are the most popular months to go lake fishing in Texas?

Lake fishing seasons in Texas vary throughout the year, offering anglers opportunities to target different species based on seasonal patterns and water conditions. Spring marks the beginning of prime fishing season as temperatures rise and fish become more active after the cooler winter months. This time of year is ideal for targeting species like largemouth bass, which move into shallower waters to spawn. Techniques such as flipping jigs, casting with soft plastics, or using topwater lures near submerged structures can yield successful catches during the spring season.

Summer is a peak season for lake fishing in Texas, characterized by warmer water temperatures that stimulate feeding behaviors among various fish species. Bass fishing remains popular during this time, with anglers targeting largemouth and smallmouth bass using techniques such as deep diving crankbaits, Texas rigs, or fishing with live bait near deeper structures and drop-offs. Panfish like crappie and sunfish are also active in the summer, often found near docks or submerged vegetation where they feed on insects and smaller fish. Adjusting fishing techniques based on the movement of fish and prevailing weather conditions can enhance success during the summer lake fishing season.

Fall brings another productive season for lake fishing in Texas as temperatures begin to cool and fish prepare for the approaching winter. This season is particularly favorable for anglers targeting species such as catfish and striped bass, which become more concentrated near deeper waters and underwater structures. Techniques such as bottom fishing with cut baits or trolling with live bait can attract bites from these predatory species. Additionally, adjusting fishing locations based on seasonal movements and water clarity can significantly increase the likelihood of a successful fishing trip during the fall lake fishing season in Texas.

What techniques are popular for lake fishing in Texas?

Lake fishing in Texas offers a variety of types and techniques tailored to the diverse fish species and lake conditions found across the state. One popular approach is boat fishing, which allows anglers to access deeper waters and cover larger areas of the lake. Techniques such as trolling with crankbaits or spinner rigs at varying depths can effectively target species like largemouth bass, striped bass, and catfish. Adjusting trolling speeds and lure presentations based on water temperature and fish activity levels can optimize success during different seasons.

Shore fishing is another prevalent method in Texas lakes, accessible from designated fishing piers, docks, or shoreline areas. Anglers often use casting rods equipped with baits such as soft plastics, live minnows, or artificial jigs to target species like crappie, sunfish, and bass. Fishing near submerged structures, weed beds, or drop-offs can increase the chances of attracting bites from these fish, especially during their feeding periods. Adjusting bait presentation and fishing depth based on weather conditions and water clarity is essential for maximizing catches from the shore.

Fly fishing enthusiasts can also enjoy lake fishing in Texas, particularly for species like bass and trout found in clear, shallow waters or near creek mouths. Using lightweight fly rods and flies that mimic insects, baitfish, or crustaceans, anglers can cast their lines onto the water's surface or near submerged structures where fish are likely to gather. This method requires skill in casting accuracy and presentation to entice strikes from wary fish, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience amid Texas's scenic lake landscapes.

What species are popular for lake fishing in Texas?

When lake fishing in Texas, anglers have a wide array of species to target, each offering its own unique allure and challenge. One of the most sought-after species is the largemouth bass, renowned for its aggressive strikes and impressive size. Found in abundance across many Texas lakes, largemouth bass are often targeted using techniques such as topwater lures early in the morning or late in the evening when they are most active near shallow waters or submerged structures. During warmer months, bass may move deeper, requiring adjustments in fishing depth and lure presentation.

Catfish are another popular target for lake anglers in Texas, with species like channel catfish and blue catfish prevalent in many lakes and reservoirs. These bottom-dwelling fish are often caught using baits such as cut shad, chicken liver, or stink baits, fished near drop-offs, creek mouths, or submerged logs where they scavenge for food. Catfish are known for their size and strength, providing anglers with exhilarating battles once hooked.

Crappie fishing is also highly favored in Texas lakes, particularly during the spawning season in spring when these panfish congregate near submerged brush piles or docks. Techniques such as jigging with small artificial baits or fishing with live minnows can yield successful catches. Panfish like bluegill and sunfish are plentiful and provide enjoyable fishing experiences for anglers of all ages, often found near shorelines, weed beds, or docks where they feed on insects and smaller organisms. Adjusting tackle and bait size to match the preferences of these smaller fish can significantly enhance the likelihood of a rewarding fishing trip in Texas lakes.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Enjoyed it. Was interesting and engaging. Couldn't have booked at a worse time, but was a fun trip.

    Glenn S. | August 2, 2024

    Trip: Trophy Chasing on Lake Fork

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    Jay has a great knowledge of fishing and has all the gear! I will definitely fish again with Jay!

    Greg A. | July 23, 2024

    Trip: Lake Bois D’ Arc

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Jay was great. Put us on the fish right away. We caught many bass. Will go with him again.

    Kyle M. | July 1, 2024

    Trip: Lake Bois D’ Arc

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    Great Experience!! Marc is the Best! Every aspect of our experience was Off the Chart! Marc is a Great Human Being and Knowledgeable would be an understatement! Thank you for Connecting us Captain Experiences!

    Norm H. | June 26, 2024

    Trip: Lake Fork Bass Trip

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent morning on Calaveras Lake! Capt Bones couldn’t have been more accommodating to my husband, myself and our 6yr old son who had never been on a chartered fishing trip before. It was a slow start but it turned on a little later and had a blast! Highly recommend Bones Fishing!!

    Heather C. | April 20, 2024

    Trip: Redfish Trips

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    Absolutely fantastic. Cory and Kevib wer both great.

    Dale K. | March 28, 2024

    Trip: Carp On The Fly - Austin, TX

  • ★★★★★
    jake was fantastic. we caught 16 large mouth and guadalupe bass during our 4 hour trip, and we had a great time doing it. we're novice fishermen (my 19 year old son and i), but jake was patient, positive and super instructional. it was lots of fun all the way around!

    Robert J. | March 18, 2024

    Trip: Central Texas Bass Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Recommend without reservation of any kind. A great guy. You'll enjoy your trip. I'm going with him again!

    Eugene B. | March 14, 2024

    Trip: Freshwater Reds - Weekday Trip

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

    Steve M. | March 11, 2024

    Trip: Lake Buchanan Special

Other Types of Fishing in Texas

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See All Lake Trips in Texas