Fishing Lake Austin

AKA: Lake McDonald, Austin Reservoir

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white crappie, bluegill, green sunfish, hybrid sunfish, redbreast sunfish, redear sunfish and longnose gar at Lake Austin in Central Texas.

Known locally for trophy bass and quality sunfish, Lake Austin is a 1,600-acre lake (a section of the Colorado River) that flows through the city of Austin, Texas. The lake is home to catfish, crappie, numerous species of sunfish and longnose gar. Created by the Tom Miller Dam, Lake Austin was formerly known as Lake McDonald.

Lake Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Fishing Boat Rentals
Boat Launch Ramps
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Lake Austin, located in Central Texas, offers a diverse range of recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Fishing is a major attraction at Lake Austin, with anglers targeting a variety of fish species. Largemouth bass is the most sought-after species in the lake, known for its size and fighting ability. Anglers also have the opportunity to catch catfish, sunfish, and carp. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, Lake Austin provides ample fishing prospects for all skill levels.

Lake Video

Primary fish species residing in Lake Austin

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake Austin Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a favorite activity on Lake Austin, with its calm waters and scenic surroundings providing an ideal setting for water-based adventures. Whether it's leisurely cruising, water skiing, or wakeboarding, boaters have plenty of space to enjoy their chosen activities. The lake features multiple marinas and boat ramps, ensuring easy access for boating enthusiasts. Exploring Lake Austin by boat allows visitors to soak in the natural beauty, admire stunning waterfront properties, and create lasting memories with family and friends.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Lake Austin Boat Rentals
Rentals: Pontoon boats
512 957-1444

While camping is not permitted directly on Lake Austin, the surrounding area offers various nearby campgrounds and parks that provide opportunities for camping enthusiasts. Emma Long Metropolitan Park, situated along the shores of Lake Austin, offers camping facilities, picnic areas, and hiking trails. It provides a tranquil environment to enjoy the outdoors while being in close proximity to the lake. Visitors can unwind, take in the scenic vistas, and enjoy the recreational activities available in the park.

There are hiking trails at various places around the lake providing access for fishing from the bank. Boat ramps provide access for power boats of all kinds, for fishing, water sports and pleasure boating. Canoes and kayaks are an option here for short-distance travel to fishing spots as well as sightseeing.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Greenshores Boat Launch
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, off Greenshores Drive, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with no parking.

Loop 360 Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, at the south end of the Highway 360 Bridge, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.

Quinlan Park Boat Ramp
Located in the west end of the lake, north side, off S Quinlan Park Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.