Fishing Fun: 8 Texas State parks to Reel in the Big One

Sandy Allen

Sandy Allen

— 4 min read
Fishing Fun: 8 Texas State parks to Reel in the Big One
Photo: Wikimedia/Yinan Chen/CC by SA

Texas is home to an incredible variety of state parks that offer some of the best fishing opportunities in the country. Whether you’re casting a line in a freshwater lake, a sprawling reservoir, a quiet river or a scenic coastal inlet, the Lone Star State has something for every angler.

Grab your fishing reel, rod  and line and motor up the boat. Here are some of the top state parks in Texas where you can enjoy a great day of fishing whether you’re headed out from a marina ramp or a private boat slip rental.

1. Lake Texoma State Park

Photo: Wikimedia/CC by SA 3.0

Located along the Texas-Oklahoma border, Lake Texoma is a prime fishing destination. The lake is well known for its striped bass, making it one of the few places in the country where you can find naturally reproducing populations of this species. Anglers can also catch catfish, crappie and largemouth bass.  

  • Water: Fresh
  • Key Species: Largemouth and striped bass, catfish, crappie
  • Fishing Type: Boat, shore

2. Caddo Lake State Park

Photo: Wikimedia/Alexander Hatley/CC by SA 2.0

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind fishing experience, Caddo Lake is a must-visit from private boat docks for rent. This East Texas gem in Karnack features bald cypress trees draped in Spanish moss, creating a truly unique fishing environment. The lake is teeming with largemouth bass, crappie, catfish and sunfish. Kayak and canoe fishing are particularly popular here, allowing anglers to navigate the maze-like waterways. 

  • Water: Fresh
  • Key Species: Catfish, sunfish, crappie, largemouth bass
  • Fishing Type: Kayak, canoe, shore

3. Inks Lake State Park

Photo: Wikimedia/Larry D. Moore/CC by SA 4.0

Situated in the Texas Hill Country, Inks Lake offers clear waters and abundant fishing opportunities. The lake is stocked with largemouth bass, catfish, and sunfish. The park also has accessible fishing piers, making it a great choice for families or those looking for an easy shoreline fishing experience.

  • Water: Fresh
  • Key Species: Sunfish, catfish, largemouth bass
  • Fishing Type: Boat, pier, shore

4. Lake Livingston State Park

Photo: Wikimedia/Larry D. Moore/CC by SA 4.0

One of the largest lakes in Texas, Lake Livingston is known for its white bass and catfish populations. Located in Livingston, the park offers boat ramps, fishing piers and plenty of shoreline access, making it easy to find the perfect fishing spot. This lake is a favorite for both seasoned anglers and beginners looking for a relaxing day on the water.

  • Water: Fresh
  • Key Species: White bass, catfish
  • Fishing Type: Boat, shore, pier

5. Choke Canyon State Park

Photo: Choke Canyon State Park (Facebook)

Anglers looking to land a trophy-size bass should head to Choke Canyon in Calliham. This South Texas reservoir is well-known for its largemouth bass, crappie, catfish and sunfish populations. The park’s remote location also makes it a great spot for wildlife viewing while you wait for the next bite.  

  • Water: Fresh
  • Key Species: Crappie, sunfish, catfish, largemouth bass
  • Fishing Type: Shore, boat

6. Galveston Island State Park

Photo: Wikimedia/Yinan Chen/CC by SA

For deep-sea saltwater fishing enthusiasts, Galveston Island State Park, on Galveston Island, offers easy access to both the bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and black drum are common catches here. Whether you prefer surf fishing, wading in the shallow flats or casting from a kayak, this park offers a little bit of everything. 

  • Water: Salt
  • Key Species: Redfish, speckled trout, black drum, flounder
  • Fishing Type: Boat, shore, surf, flats, kayak

7. Martin Creek Lake State Park

Photo: Wikimedia/Larry D. Moore/CC by SA 4.0

Located in Tatum, the East Texas Martin Creek Lake is unique because it remains warm year-round, which is thanks to the nearby power plant. That means excellent fishing conditions even in the winter. Largemouth bass are the star attraction here, but you’ll also find catfish and crappie in abundance. 

  • Water: Fresh
  • Key Species: Largemouth bass, catfish, crappie
  • Fishing Type: Boat, shore

8. Brazos Bend State Park

Photo: Wikimedia/Larry D. Moore/CC by SA 4.0

While best known for its alligator population, Brazos Bend State Park in Needville is also an excellent fishing spot to check out from private boat lifts for rent. The park’s lakes are home to bass, catfish and bluegill. It’s a perfect choice for anglers who enjoy a peaceful fishing experience surrounded by nature. 

  • Water: Fresh
  • Key Species: Bluegill, bass, catfish
  • Fishing Type: Boat, shore

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