Fishing At Canyon Lake

What to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, blue catfish, black crappie, white crappie, bluegill, redbreast sunfish, redear sunfish, tilapia, white bass, striped bass, longnose gar and spotted gar at Canyon Lake in Central Texas.

Considered an excellent bass fishing destination, Canyon Lake in the south-central Texas, is 8,300-acres of fishing opportunity. In addition to bass, the lake has populations of crappie, catfish, stripers, white bass, sunfish and gar. Steep, rocky banks and submerged trees are the primary targets for bass and crappie anglers.

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

The purpose of this page is to deliver an overview of this lake, the fishing options, and area amenities. Our goal is to provide info to first time visitors, as well as beginner and novice anglers. We gathered details from personal experience, numerous trusted websites that each offer select bits of information, and videos of fishing activity on the lake. These websites include the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, marinas at the lake, campgrounds, boat rental agencies and others. By consolidating this information to one page it allows visitors to see the entire picture, all in one place.

Canyon Lake, located in the Texas Hill Country, is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts seeking a memorable angling experience. The lake offers excellent fishing opportunities, attracting anglers of all skill levels. Largemouth bass is the prized target for many fishermen at Canyon Lake, with the lake's structure and clear waters providing an ideal habitat for these game fish. Anglers can also find other popular species such as striped bass, white bass, catfish, and sunfish, ensuring a diverse and exciting fishing adventure.

Lake Video

The generally clear water enhances the topwater fishing during warmer months. The water becomes more stained toward the river end of the lake and enhances shallow-water fishing techniques. Catfish are in most areas of the lake with the higher concentrations toward the river end. Stripers and white bass school and follow schools of bait - toward the surface in warm months and deeper as the water turns cold. Eighty miles of shoreline provide plenty of places to wet a line, including many areas with access for fishing from the bank. Fishing from a boat, canoe or kayak enhances the opportunity to reach water not available to anglers from shore. A variety of boats are available for rent at numerous locations around the lake.

Primary fish species residing in Canyon Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Canyon Lake Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

Another favored activity on Canyon Lake is boating, as the lake's expansive surface area and stunning surroundings make it a perfect setting for water-based fun. Whether it's sailing, water skiing, or cruising along the crystal-clear waters, boaters have ample space to indulge in their favorite activities. The lake features multiple boat ramps and marinas, ensuring easy access for boating enthusiasts. Exploring Canyon Lake by boat offers a chance to admire the breathtaking cliffs, enjoy the cool breezes, and fully appreciate the natural beauty of the Hill Country.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Canyon Lake Marina
Rentals: Pontoon boats and kayaks
830 935-4333

Cranes Mill Marina
Rentals: Pontoon boats and kayaks
830 899-7718

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Canyon Lake Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Boat Ramp Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.

Canyon Lake Boat Ramp 10
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, east side, off Cranes Mill Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Canyon Lake Boat Ramp 16
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off Jacobs Creek Park Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.

Canyon Lake Boat Ramp 17
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off Old Hancock Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Canyon Lake Boat Ramp 18
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, off Canyon Park Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Canyon Lake Boat Ramp #22
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off Cranes Mill Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Canyon Lake Boat Ramp #23
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off Park Shores Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Potters Creek Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, off Potters Creek Park Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Click here for a Texas Fishing License.

Camping is a popular pastime at Canyon Lake, providing visitors with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the area and enjoy a peaceful getaway. The lake offers several campgrounds, ranging from primitive tent sites to RV-friendly facilities, accommodating a variety of camping preferences. Campers can relax amidst the beauty of nature, enjoy hiking and biking trails, and unwind under the starry night sky. Camping at Canyon Lake offers a chance to disconnect from the daily routine and reconnect with the serene ambiance of the Hill Country.