6 Great Places to Go Fishing in Austin

By Alycia Downs

Jul 25, 2019

Austin, Texas is renowned for its eclectic live music scene, but there are also many great places to go fishing in Austin. Find out where to fish in Austin now.

Austin is the state capital of Texas and a city renowned for its eclectic live music scene. Many people visit for the nightlife, attractions, or shopping, but did you know there are also many great places to go fishing in Austin?! That’s right, there are many lakes, rivers, and ponds where you can catch bass, catfish, stripper, crappie, perch, and even rainbow trout. When planning your next Texas adventure, consider these six great places to go fishing in Austin.

1. Mills Pond Recreation Area

This pond is a welcome escape from the bustle of the city. The pond is well-stocked with catfish and can be fished from the onsite pier, shoreline, or a non-motorized boat.

2. Red Bud Isle

This hidden gem is well-known for catching large largemouth bass and gar. Its close proximity to the Tom Miller Dam generates a lot of water movement and bait, therefore productive fishing. It’s also a dog park so you can bring your furry friend along.

3. Lake Austin

Lake Austin is known as one of the great places to go fishing in Austin for many species of fish including bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish, and gar. It’s rumored that trophy bass can often be reeled in on this large lake.

4. Mansfield Dam Park

Located at the head of Lake Austin, the Mansfield Dam area is a great place to catch largemouth bass, especially when the dam is open and the water is flowing. It’s also a state park with amenities that make this one of the best fishing spots to spend a day at.

5. McKinney Falls State Park

With camping, waterfalls, hiking, and fishing, this park is perfect for a weekend getaway. Set up camp at one of the park’s many campsites and spend days fishing for bass, catfish, and sunfish along Onion Creek.

6. Guadalupe River

If you’re looking for where to fish in Austin for fly anglers, this river is ideal for casting flies to rainbow trout. Consider going in the early morning to avoid the traffic of floaters and kayakers.

Now that you know where to fish in Austin, be sure to get your state fishing license as anyone over the age of 17 is required to have one. Happy fishing!

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.