10 Great places to go Fishing in San Antonio, Texas

By Alycia Downs

Aug 22, 2018

The best places for fishing in San Antonio, Texas. Catch catfish, red drum, trout and more in the lakes of Texas.

If you’re looking for great fishing in San Antonio, Texas, you’re in the right place. Many public parks offer scenic settings with outdoor activities and phenomenal fishing. Stay to enjoy the hiking trails, playgrounds, athletic fields, picnic areas and even camping. Here are some of the best places for San Antonio fishing and recreation.

Family-Friendly Stocked Ponds & Lakes

Texas Parks and Wildlife created a “Community Fishing Lakes Program” to make fishing more accessible for all anglers. As part of the program, the lakes are stocked with fish throughout the year and are located within city limits or public parks. Here are some of the popular community lakes for San Antonio fishing.

1. Miller's Pond Park

An urban lake located within a 42-acre park. Ideal for bank fishing only, this small pond is stocked with catfish in the summer and trout in the winter. Amenities include basketball courts, a walking trail and playgrounds. 

2. Brackenridge Park

The trout-stocked San Antonio River runs through this beautiful park making for a great day of picnicking, hiking and fishing in Texas.

3. Woodlawn Lake Park

Located near St. Mary’s University, Woodlawn Lake is stocked with channel catfish and can be fished from the bank or pier. The park features a gym, swimming pool and playgrounds.

4. Elmendorf Lake Park

This beautifully renovated park allows fishing from the bank or pier, a water play area and open space for walking and biking.

5. Earl Scott Pond

Escape to nature at this remote pond to catch catfish, perch and bass. There are no amenities so come prepared. The pond is located on the Leon Creek Greenway near the Buddy Calk Trailhead.

6. South Side Lions Park Pond

This pond offers shaded banks and is stocked with trout in the winter and catfish in the summer. A playground and other amenities are available inside the park. 

7. Converse North Park City Lake

Located among San Antonio suburbs, this lake is stocked annually with bluegill and catfish.  

8. Live Oak City Lake

A large reservoir in the center of an activity-filled park with a handicap fishing pier. The reservoir is stocked annually with trout in the winter and catfish and bass in the summer.

9. Espada Park Lake

This scenic park is open from sunrise to sunset and is fantastic for bank fishing and picnicking.

10. Lakeside Park

Located on the eastside of San Antonio, the trout-stocked lake is circled by a mile-long walking trail and features plenty of shade trees under which to relax.

Major Lakes - Good For Boaters

These are two of the best lakes in San Antonio, Texas to go boating with your family and friends and enjoy a day out on the water.

Braunig Lake and Calaveras Lake

Fishing in San Antonio, Texas, isn’t complete without casting lines at these two power plant reservoirs. One access pass will get you entry to both lakes. Boats are welcome and the most popular species are red drum, largemouth bass, striped bass, and channel catfish. If fishing from shore, stage at one of the land points directly across from the power plant. Camping and boat rentals available.

Medina Lake

A 5,400-acre clear-water lake best known for a variety of catfish and bass species. Private lakeside camps and boat ramps are available.

Popular baits for fishing in San Antonio, Texas, include shad, crawfish, chicken livers, nightcrawlers, shrimp and artificial baits. Read up on local fishing regulations on the Texas Parks and Wildlife website and find out how to get your fishing license on our State page.

Alycia Downs
Alycia Downs
Alycia Downs is a freelance content creator and avid sportsman who contributes to numerous publications promoting tourism, fishing, and outdoors. Alycia is a member of the Florida Outdoor Writers Association and is actively involved with conservation and fishing non-profit organizations. Visit her personal blog at tideandtale.com or on Instagram @tideandtale.