Welcome to your ultimate guide to fishing on Lake Travis in 2024, a gem in the Highland Lakes chain of Central Texas. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice looking to cast a line, Lake Travis offers an array of opportunities to reel in a variety of fish species in its stunning 18,929-acre expanse.

Lake Travis—A Brief History Lesson

Lake Travis, not a natural lake but a man-made reservoir, was created with the construction of Mansfield Dam in 1942. This massive structure, standing 26 stories high and stretching 7,000 feet in length, was built to control the floodwaters of the Colorado River. Today, it's part of the Highland Lakes Region, which includes six lakes known for their recreational activities and scenic beauty.

Lake Travis—By the Numbers

• Length: 63.75 miles
• Width: 4.50 miles
• Shoreline: Approximately 271 miles
• Average Depth: 62 feet (max depth: 210 feet)
• Capacity: 1,115,076 acre-feet at conservation pool elevation (681.0 feet above mean sea level).

Best Fish to Catch in Lake Travis

Lake Travis is renowned for its bass fishing, particularly:

• Largemouth Bass: The lake has seen a surge in bass populations in recent years, with the lake-record catch being a 15.32-pound largemouth in 2021.
• Guadalupe Bass: Native to the Colorado River, this species is also plentiful in Lake Travis.
• Striped Bass and White Bass: Smaller populations but still catchable.
• Catfish: Blue, channel, and flathead catfish are found throughout the lake.

How to Fish for Bass in Lake Travis

Shore Fishing

Mansfield Dam Park: Located just 18.5 miles from downtown Austin, this park offers ample shoreline access with a long point extending into the lake, creating natural drop-offs ideal for bass fishing. A secluded cove provides a sanctuary for fish.

Tom Hughes Park: Known for its clear water and rocky banks, this park is perfect for targeting bass during the spring spawn.

Pace Bend Park: The west side features steep, rocky bluff walls where bass seek cooler, deeper waters in summer.

Cypress Creek Park: During high water levels, the flooded brush becomes a prime feeding ground for bass.

Boat Fishing

Creek Channels: Natural highways for fish, these areas are excellent for intercepting bass.

Points and Inlets: Depth transitions attract fish, making these spots key for anglers.

Underwater Structure: Look for sunken logs, brush piles, or rock formations where bass hide and ambush prey.

Seasonal Strategies

• Spring: Focus on shallow areas for spawning bass. Topwater baits like Zara Spooks or jumping minnows are effective.
• Summer: Bass move deeper to escape the heat. Target drop-offs, creek channels, and underwater structures.
• Fall: Follow baitfish activity. Large topwater baits on windy main-lake points can yield both numbers and quality-sized bass.

Techniques and Lures

Largemouth Bass:

• Spring: Topwater baits, sight fishing during the spawn.
• Fall: Large topwater baits on windy points.

White Bass:

• Target during late February or early March in major creek arms and the Pedernales River. Small lures like spinners or jigs work.

Striped Bass:

• Focus on the lower end of the lake in early spring when they school to chase shad.

Catfish:

• Use stinkbait or cutbait for blue and channel catfish; live bait for flatheads.

General Tips

• Mix Up Your Presentation: Experiment with different baits; sometimes less familiar presentations can surprise you.
• Stay on the Move: Fish are constantly on the move, so cover water and follow them to more productive areas.
• Look for Life: Bait fish and herons can indicate where bass might be lurking.
• Learn From Others: Observe patterns in areas frequented by other anglers.

Lake Travis Fishing Regulations

• A Texas fishing license is required for anyone aged 17 and older.
• Freshwater Fishing Endorsement is necessary for Lake Travis.
• Size and Bag Limits: Always check for specific limits before fishing, and practice catch and release to preserve the ecosystem.

Local Information and Resources

• LCRA Parks & Recreation Areas: Explore different parks for fishing access.
• Chambers of Commerce: For local info on events and activities.
• Nearby State Parks: Additional fishing spots and amenities.
• Fishing Guides: Consider hiring a guide for a tailored experience.

With this comprehensive guide, you're now equipped with the knowledge to make the most of your fishing adventure on Lake Travis. Enjoy the unparalleled beauty of Central Texas while casting your line for some of the best bass fishing in the state. Remember, responsible angling practices are crucial for preserving this natural treasure for future generations. Tight lines!