Fishing Falcon Lake
AKA: Falcon International Reservoir
Popular Fish Species Falcon Lake, TX
Largemouth Bass Fishing
Falcon Lake is considered an excellent bass fishing lake by locals and tournament anglers alike. It is known for a healthy population of big bass with monster stringers weighed in during bass tournaments, thanks to the Toyota ShareLunker program. Fishing for bass can be quite rewarding, with an occasional bass over 4 pounds being caught. Bass often move shallow and become aggressive when they are in a feeding mood. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, drop shot rigs, big worms, jigs and spoons are good options. In winter, spend your time fishing deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time.
Channel Catfish Fishing
To fish for catfish on Falcon Lake, most any rod and reel will work, as long as the line is strong enough. Flathead catfish and blue catfish also reside in the lake and fishing for them is often good as well. For serious catfish enthusiasts, using the right equipment improves success. A medium action, to medium-heavy action rod is ideal, in the 6' to 7' range. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with popular catfish baits on at least 10-pound line. Use sharp hooks with bait holders on the shank, or circle hooks for live bait. Falcon Lake has a decent population of channel catfish, and they are eager to bite. The typical fish are about 2 pounds, with larger ones caught frequently. Night fishing for catfish often delivers better results than daytime fishing. Fishing for channel catfish is often most productive around any kind of structure in the area. In Spring channel catfish migrate toward incoming water, so stay up river away from the main lake. In early summer look for rocky banks, the bigger the rocks the better. In summer and winter deeper structure is where to look. The river end of the lake is often the area where the bigger catfish are caught. Road beds, creek channels and rocky points are all good places to begin.
Black Crappie Fishing
A nice population of black crappie resides in Falcon Lake. Crappie tend to run in schools, and once a school is located, there is a good chance for catching significant numbers. Crappie fishing is easy and requires simple, basic gear. Virtually any fishing pole, reasonably small line and crappie jigs or small hooks baited with live bait, creates the ideal setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to maintain. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. Because crappie prefer cover and structure, locate brush and vegetation in appropriate water depths. Using a fish finder can help locate schools of crappie, which tend to stack vertically around cover. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels in deeper water. A history of careful fisheries management by the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department has helped to maintain a good fishery for anglers.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, blue catfish, black crappie, bluegill, tilapia, white bass and alligator gar at Falcon International Reservoir in Central Texas.
Falcon Lake Fishing Video
Falcon Lake, situated on the Texas-Mexico border, is a world-class fishing destination that attracts anglers from far and wide. The lake offers exceptional fishing opportunities, making it a favorite spot for anglers seeking a thrilling angling experience. Falcon Lake is renowned for its incredible largemouth bass fishing. The lake's clear waters, abundant vegetation, and ample cover provide an ideal habitat for bass, resulting in the potential for landing trophy-sized fish. Anglers can also target other popular species such as catfish, crappie, and sunfish, ensuring a diverse and exciting fishing adventure.
Additionally the lake has populations of tilapia and gar. The lake is a literal fish factory and delivers both quantity and quality. Big bass and monster catfish are caught with regularity. And, if you just enjoy catching lots of fish and getting away from the crowd, you'll love Falcon. Boat launch ramps are open to the public - one at Falcon State Park and one at Zapata. Other areas with primitive ramps are available during low-water conditions - some requiring four-wheel drive.
Primary fish species residing in Falcon Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Falcon International Reservoir Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a favored activity on Falcon Lake, as the lake's vast expanse and calm waters provide the perfect setting for water-based fun. Whether it's cruising, water skiing, or simply leisurely boating, there is plenty of space for boaters to enjoy their preferred activities. Falcon Lake features multiple boat ramps and marinas, ensuring convenient access for boating enthusiasts. Exploring Falcon Lake by boat allows visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty, navigate through submerged structures, and fully appreciate the serenity of the lake.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Arroyo Veleno Public Boat Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off County Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.
Boat Ramp Falcon Lake State Park
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, off Park Road 46, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and both paved and gravel parking.
Fishing Guides On Falcon Lake
Broken Braid Guide Service - bass
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Texas Fishing License.
Camping is a popular pastime at Falcon Lake, offering visitors the opportunity to fully embrace the tranquility and natural beauty of the area. The lake provides several campgrounds, accommodating both tent and RV campers. Campers can relax amidst the serene surroundings, engage in outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching, and enjoy evenings by campfires beneath the starry sky. Camping at Falcon Lake allows visitors to disconnect from the outside world and connect with the peaceful ambiance of the lake.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Falcon Lake RV Park - 956 744-4629
Lakefront Lodge RV Park - 956 765-4346
Falcon Heights Motel & RV Park - 956 848-5229
Falcon State Park Campground & RV Park - 956 848-5327
Amigo Inn & R. V. Park - 956 765-3095
Four Seasons Mobile Home & RV Park - 956 765-4241
Falcon Lake TX Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Falcon International Reservoir
Falcon Lake Tackle
2825 S. US Hwy 83
Zapata, TX 78076
956 765-4866
Fishing lakes in each state.
101124
Falcon International Reservoir in Central Texas.
TEXAS
Information about fishing lakes in Central Texas
Falcon Lake offers excellent lunker bass fishing in Central TX.
