Damn Good River Fishing Guides In Texas

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

Choose a Date
4.92/5 Average Rating

Damn Good Guides

Experts Available 24/7

100% Weather Guarantee

Recently Booked River Fishing Guides In Texas

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing in Houston

Half Day Of Fishing

NEW
16 ft 1 - 3 People From $349
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing in Granbury

Brazos River Drift Trip

100% (2)
14 ft 1 - 3 People From $250
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing in New Braunfels

Guadalupe River Drift

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

River Fishing in DeSoto

Giant Alligator Gar Adventure

100% (2)
20 ft 1 - 3 People From $750
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing in Brazos River

Fishing Tours On The Brazos River

100% (1)
13 ft 1 - 8 People From $300
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing in Austin

Carp On The Fly - Austin, TX

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

Top Cities for River Fishing in Texas

Top Types of River Trips in Texas

Top Species for River 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 River Fishing Guides In Texas

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing in Dallas

Texas Alligator Gar Classic

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

River, Lake Fishing in Houston

4-Hour Bowfishing Trip

60% (5)
21 ft 1 - 8 People From $750
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing in Freeport

Golden Dorado Grand Slam

NEW
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing in Fort Worth

Brazos River Float Trip

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

River Fishing in Houston

Full Day Of Fishing

NEW
16 ft 1 - 3 People From $399
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing in Aquilla

Airboat Guided Brazos River Fly Fishing

NEW
16 ft 1 - 3 People From $550
See All River Trips in Texas

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a fishing trip in Texas

What are the best river fishing trips in Texas?

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

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 47 river trips in Texas, and the most popular trips in the area are Half Day of Fishing guided by Alex, Brazos River Drift Trip guided by Ben, and Guadalupe River Drift guided by Kevin.

Our guides in Texas are rated a 4.92 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 river guides / fishing lessons in Texas? Check out our beginner and family friendly river guides in Texas.

What types of river fishing trips are common in Texas?

The most commonly sought after species for river fishing are: 1. largemouth bass, 2. alligator gar, 3. smallmouth bass, 4. smallmouth buffalo, and 5. carp.

The most common fishing techniques in Texas are fly fishing, heavy tackle fishing, and light tackle fishing but artificial lure fishing and wading are popular as well.

How much does a Texas river fishing trip cost?

Prices for river fishing in Texas can range anywhere from about $400 to $13,685, but the average price for a half day trip for river fishing in Texas is $817. The average price for a full day trip for river fishing in Texas is $5,195.

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 river fishing in Texas?

The most popular season for river fishing in Texas is summer, and most anglers book their trips 37 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 river in Texas all about?

Texas boasts a diverse range of rivers that wind through its varied landscapes, offering both recreational opportunities and ecological richness. The Rio Grande, forming part of Texas' border with Mexico, is one of the state's most iconic rivers. It traverses rugged canyons and desert landscapes, supporting a unique ecosystem and providing opportunities for activities such as fishing, birdwatching, and river rafting. Anglers target species like largemouth bass, catfish, and various sunfish in the Rio Grande, using techniques such as bait fishing, fly fishing, and lure casting depending on the river section and target species.

The Guadalupe River, flowing through the Texas Hill Country, is renowned for its scenic beauty and recreational activities. It's a popular spot for tubing, kayaking, and fly fishing, particularly for rainbow trout stocked in colder months by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Anglers here use fly fishing techniques such as nymphing and dry fly presentations to catch trout in its clear, spring-fed waters. The Guadalupe also supports populations of bass and sunfish, making it a year-round destination for anglers seeking both relaxation and adventure on its gentle rapids and tranquil pools.

East Texas is home to rivers like the Sabine and Trinity Rivers, which wind through piney woods and marshy terrain, providing habitats for a variety of fish species. These rivers are known for their excellent fishing opportunities, including catches of largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and freshwater drum. Anglers use techniques such as bait fishing with live bait or cut bait, casting with artificial lures, and trolling to target these fish in their respective habitats. The Sabine River, in particular, supports a thriving bass fishery, attracting anglers from across the state for tournaments and recreational fishing throughout the year. Whether exploring the rugged canyons of the Rio Grande, tubing down the Guadalupe River, or casting lines in the Sabine River for bass, Texas' rivers offer a rich tapestry of outdoor experiences amidst some of the state's most scenic landscapes.

What are the most popular months to go river in Texas?

Texas' river seasons unfold with distinct opportunities and activities that cater to outdoor enthusiasts and anglers alike throughout the year. Spring marks the beginning of the river season as temperatures warm and rivers swell with runoff from winter rains. This time is ideal for fishing as fish become more active in preparation for spawning. Rivers like the Guadalupe and Colorado Rivers see increased angler activity, with anglers targeting species such as bass, sunfish, and stocked rainbow trout using techniques such as fly fishing, bait fishing, and lure casting.

Summer in Texas brings hot temperatures and longer days, making it a popular time for recreational activities on the state's rivers. Tubing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are common along rivers like the Guadalupe and San Marcos Rivers, offering cool escapes from the heat amidst scenic landscapes. Anglers continue to pursue warm-water species such as largemouth bass, catfish, and sunfish, focusing on early mornings and late evenings when fish are most active. Techniques vary from topwater fishing for bass to bottom fishing with worms or stink baits for catfish in deeper pools and eddies.

Fall brings a transition in Texas' river activities as temperatures moderate and foliage begins to change. This season offers excellent fishing opportunities as fish feed voraciously in preparation for winter. Rivers like the Sabine and Trinity Rivers see increased angler activity for species like largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. Techniques such as casting with crankbaits or jigging with soft plastics are effective for targeting bass, while live bait or cut bait is preferred for catching catfish. Fall also marks the return of cooler-water species like trout to rivers such as the Guadalupe, providing anglers with additional opportunities for fly fishing and enjoying the natural beauty of Texas' waterways. Whether tubing down the Guadalupe in summer, fishing for bass in the fall, or casting lines for trout in winter, Texas' rivers offer diverse and rewarding experiences year-round amidst its varied landscapes.

What techniques are popular for river in Texas?

Texas features a diverse array of river types that cater to various outdoor activities and fishing preferences across the state. The Guadalupe River, flowing through the Texas Hill Country, is renowned for its clear, spring-fed waters and recreational opportunities. It's a popular destination for tubing, kayaking, and fishing, particularly for rainbow trout stocked during colder months. Anglers here use fly fishing techniques such as nymphing and dry fly presentations to target trout in the river's gentle currents and pools. The Guadalupe also supports populations of bass and sunfish, making it a versatile river for both relaxation and angling adventures.

East Texas rivers like the Sabine and Trinity Rivers wind through piney woods and marshy terrain, offering diverse fishing opportunities. These rivers are home to species like largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and freshwater drum. Anglers use techniques such as bait fishing with live bait or cut bait, casting with artificial lures, and trolling to catch these fish in their respective habitats. The Sabine River, in particular, is renowned for its bass fishery, attracting anglers for tournaments and recreational fishing throughout the year.

West Texas rivers, such as portions of the Rio Grande and Pecos Rivers, traverse arid landscapes and rugged canyons, offering unique fishing and outdoor experiences. The Rio Grande supports a variety of warm-water species like largemouth bass, catfish, and sunfish. Anglers here employ techniques such as bait fishing with live worms or cut bait, casting with crankbaits or spinnerbaits, and fly fishing with streamers to catch these fish in the river's swift currents and deeper pools. The Pecos River, known for its desert scenery and historical significance, also provides fishing opportunities for bass and catfish, attracting outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude and natural beauty in remote settings. Whether tubing down the Guadalupe, casting for bass in the Sabine, or exploring the scenic canyons of the Rio Grande, Texas' rivers offer a diverse array of outdoor adventures and fishing experiences amidst the state's varied landscapes.

What species are popular for river in Texas?

Texas rivers offer a rich diversity of fish species that appeal to anglers throughout the year, providing varied opportunities depending on the region and season. In central and southern Texas, rivers like the Guadalupe and Colorado Rivers are popular destinations for trout fishing during the cooler months when these rivers are stocked with rainbow trout by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Anglers often use fly fishing techniques such as nymphing or dry fly presentations to target these trout in the clear, spring-fed waters. The Guadalupe River, in particular, is renowned for its trout fishery and attracts anglers seeking a serene and scenic fishing experience.

For warm-water species, Texas rivers offer excellent opportunities to catch largemouth bass, catfish, and sunfish year-round. The Sabine and Trinity Rivers in East Texas are known for their bass fisheries, with anglers using techniques such as casting with crankbaits or soft plastics to target these prized sportfish. Catfish are also abundant in many Texas rivers, including the Brazos and Red Rivers, where anglers often use bait fishing with stink baits, worms, or cut bait to attract these bottom-dwelling fish. Sunfish, such as bluegill and redear sunfish, provide additional recreational opportunities for anglers using small hooks and bait like worms or crickets.

During certain seasons, Texas rivers also host migratory species like striped bass and hybrid striped bass, which move upstream from reservoirs during spawning runs. The Trinity River, below Lake Livingston Dam, is renowned for its striped bass fishery, attracting anglers who use techniques such as trolling with large plugs or live bait fishing with shad or cut bait. Hybrid striped bass, a cross between striped bass and white bass, are also targeted in rivers like the Colorado and Brazos Rivers using similar techniques. Whether pursuing trout in the Hill Country, casting for bass in East Texas, or trolling for striped bass in the Trinity River, Texas rivers offer a wide range of fishing opportunities and outdoor adventures for anglers of all interests and skill levels.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    I booked this trip for my husband and he loved it! His guide Cody was great, very communicative. My husband caught a lot of fish and had a lot of fun. Thanks Cody!

    Josh L. | October 21, 2024

    Trip: Brazos River Drift Trip

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

    Clayton C. | October 5, 2024

    Trip: Carp and Buffalo on the Fly

  • ★★★★★
    Joe was extremely knowledgeable about spots to hit. Even when other captains weren’t catching anything, he found a way to get us to spots where we, not only caught 3 large redfish, but quite a bit of other fish. The tour was extremely enjoyable and a lot of fun. I would highly recommend Joe. A Great a time!!

    Marche W. | August 28, 2024

    Trip: Half day trip - Bay

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent trip. Very knowledgeable guide. Was very patient with inexperienced anglers. Good instructor.

    Glenn S. | August 2, 2024

    Trip: Walk-and-Wade Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great float trip! Our guides, Cody and Mitch were fantastic!! They were very knowledgeable of the river how to get us on fish. We had a beginner that had never fly fish before and Cody and Mitch were very patient with teaching him how to cast and catch fish on a fly rod. I would highly recommend these guys for fishing on the Brazos!

    Matt L. | June 29, 2024

    Trip: Brazos River Drift Trip

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

    Dale K. | March 28, 2024

    Trip: Carp On The Fly - Austin, TX

  • ★★★★★
    Attentive, helpful, got us on fish. Great guy to float the Guadalupe with. I recommend him any day that I am not planning a return trip

    Christopher G. | March 10, 2024

    Trip: Guadalupe River Drift

  • ★★★★★
    Kevin was fantastic! Super informative, very patient and treated us like kings. We couldn’t been happier with him as a guide. And he put us on fish and knows the River like the back of his hand. Don’t hesitate to book, you won’t be disappointed.

    David M. | January 27, 2024

    Trip: Guadalupe River Drift

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip, guides were excellent, friendly and accommodating! They put in the time and effort to get us on fish even late into the tear on a cold day when fishing east expected to be good

    Jeromy K. | November 3, 2023

    Trip: Texas Alligator Gar Classic

  • ★★★★★
    Great time with our guide cody. Will be back again .

    Timothy D. | August 26, 2023

    Trip: Texas Alligator Gar Classic

  • ★★★★★
    Had an amazing time with Shane on our Brazos river kayak trip. He was a phenomenal guide and would definitely recommend him to anyone looking for a great fishing trip. Would absolutely do again!

    Tony A. | August 14, 2023

    Trip: Fishing Tours on the Brazos River

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome trip. Captain Randy put us on fish all night. Super helpful. Anything we needed he was right there to help. Great time. See you again soon.

    Curtis B. | July 28, 2023

    Trip: Central Texas Bowfishing

  • ★★★★★
    Randy is a great guy, got me and my 9 year old on plenty of fish. Couldn’t recommend him enough!

    Braxton Z. | July 28, 2023

    Trip: Central Texas Bowfishing

  • ★★★★★
    Terrific trip with Milton. Fishing started slow, but we stuck it out and everybody caught their first-ever gar! Milton moved spots several times to get us more shots, and we caught fish while every other boat on the river got skunked. Will definitely be back!

    Ian O. | July 8, 2023

    Trip: Giant Alligator Gar Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    Kevin is a great guide and super passionate about putting you on your biggest fish. Mother nature worked against us on my trip but I was still able to learn a lot about fishing in Texas as I’m new here. Even though the bite was hard and we got snunked I would go out again with Kevin with full confidence.

    Grizz J. | September 28, 2022

    Trip: Euro Carp Trip - Austin, TX

  • ★★★★★
    We went with Cody and had a great time. I bass fish a lot but never thought about Alligator Gar fishing. But some friends from Czech Republic came to see me and that was on there bucket list. So we booked with Captain Experiences. The whole experience from start to finish was great. Shawna was great and keep us updated on everything. and was very quick to respond to any questions that we had. Cody sure knows what he is doing. our largest was 160.25 lbs. and I do think I will be going back. I do recommend you give it a try. Terry Varden

    Terry V. | April 7, 2022

    Trip: Texas Alligator Gar Classic

  • ★★★★★
    We got one allegator gar. Thank you!

    Naoki H. | March 26, 2022

    Trip: World Record Alligator Gar

Other Types of Fishing in Texas

How are fishing conditions in Texas?

View Texas Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

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 River Trips in Texas