Fishing In Houston, Tx | Detailed Guide

Fishing in Houston, TX is the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and explore the great outdoors. With a variety of fish species and top-notch fishing spots, Houston is home to some of the best fishing in the country.

From shore fishing in Lake Conroe to charter fishing in Houston, there’s something for everyone. This guide will provide a detailed look at the different types of fish found in the area, the best places to go fishing, and the regulations to follow when fishing in Houston.

Whether you’re an experienced angler or just getting started, this guide will help you make the most of your fishing adventures. So grab your rod and reel and get ready to explore the waters of Houston!

Best Places to Fish in Houston

For anglers looking to explore the waters around Houston, Texas, there are plenty of great spots for fishing.

Lake Conroe is an excellent spot for bass and panfish, while Lake Houston is great for largemouth bass and catfish.

Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge is a great destination for anglers looking to catch redfish and speckled trout.

Lake Conroe Texas Fishing

Experience world-class fishing at Lake Conroe with its abundance of largemouth bass, hybrid striped bass, channel catfish, bluegill, and crappie. Largemouth bass are the most sought-after species in this lake, with excellent catch rates and the potential to land a trophy. The biggest largemouth bass ever collected by TPWD in an electrofishing survey was taken from beneath a boat dock and weighed in at 14.1 pounds.

Channel catfish are the most abundant sportfish in the lake, while bluegill grows to enormous sizes. Crappie can be caught in early spring and fall, while the introduction of hybrid striped bass in 1995 has added another dimension to the sport fishery. Largemouth bass anglers are most successful with shad imitation lures or soft plastic baits.

Hybrid striped bass can be caught most any time of year trolling in open water areas or vertically jigging spoons or live shad. Channel catfish are caught year-round using smelly baits or cut shad. Bluegill can be caught along rip rap using live worms or crickets.

As Lake Conroe has special regulations on largemouth bass and a Triploid Grass Carp Permit in effect, anglers should consult the US Forest Service to purchase a national forest map and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for information on fishing within the law.

With its many waterways and lakes, Houston is an excellent fishing destination. Lake Houston and San Jacinto River are great fisheries for largemouth bass, while Buffalo Bayou is a great place to catch white bass. Clear Lake and saltwater bays around Houston are great places to find trophy redfish, while Galveston Bay is a great spot for speckled trout and gator trout.

Other species include catfish, smallmouth bass, carp, crappie, bluegill, black drum, sheepshead, sharks, mackerel, and cobia.

Lake Houston Fishing

Ready to reel in some big catches? Look no further than Lake Houston for an unforgettable fishing experience!

Located in Texas, this reservoir is fed by the San Jacinto River and offers a wide variety of fish to target, with blue catfish being the dominant species. Fishing in this lake is managed under statewide regulations, and bow fishing is prohibited due to city ordinances.

Jigs and spoons are productive for white bass in the spring, while stink baits and live shad are effective for catfish along the channels with trotlines or rods and reels.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department provides updates on the fishing conditions in Lake Houston, and they also offer a newsletter archive and subscriber preferences management.

Get ready to cast your line and bring in some big catches in Lake Houston!

Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge Fishing

Pack your gear and head to Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge for a fishing adventure like no other – the marsh habitat is perfect for blue crab, shrimp, and a variety of game fish!

With boat ramps, roads, and parking areas provided, the refuge is dedicated to the conservation, protection, and enhancement of fish, wildlife, and plants.

Experience a peaceful trail or two, bird-watching, and even alligator-watching, then take advantage of the free Fishing Day event hosted each spring and fall to get an even closer look at the refuge’s inhabitants.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department will provide poles, bait, and crabbing supplies during the event, so you can finally give crabbing a try.

All the while, you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of the marsh habitat, and can even pick up a few tricks and tips during your time in Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge.

With so much to explore and experience, you’ll never want to leave. And, with this perfect setting for a fishing adventure, why wouldn’t you?

From here, it’s time to explore the wonders of the San Jacinto River.

San Jacinto River Fishing

Embark on a unique fishing journey on the San Jacinto River, where you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of the marsh and have the opportunity to try your hand at crabbing during a special event.

The San Jacinto River is a beautiful and diverse fishery worth exploring, where anglers can find largemouth bass, white bass, and redfish.

It’s also home to Karankawa and Akokisa tribes and has East and West Forks that feed into Lake Conroe and Cleveland in Liberty County, respectively. The East fork meets with Buffalo Bayou and eventually feeds into the Houston Ship Channel.

This is a must-visit place if you want to fish in Houston.

With so much to offer, the San Jacinto River is a great place to embark on your next fishing trip.

To continue your adventure, head to Mary Jo Peckham Park for a day of fishing on Lake Houston.

Mary Jo Peckham Park Fishing

Come join the adventure and cast your line in the tranquil waters of Mary Jo Peckham Park, where you’ll find an abundance of fish and a wealth of outdoor activities to enjoy.

This 32-acre green space is home to a variety of activities, including a putting green, a miniature golf course, a playground, a large pavilion, and a gazebo.

The fishing lake is stocked with bream, bass, and catfish, giving anglers plenty of opportunities for a successful day of fishing.

The park also provides a six-hole disc golf course, making it the perfect spot for a fun day out.

With its abundance of activities and beautiful surroundings, Mary Jo Peckham Park is a great spot for fishing and outdoor recreation.

From here, you can take a short drive to nearby McGovern Lake for yet more exceptional fishing experiences.

McGovern Lake Fishing

Take a short drive from Mary Jo Peckham Park and explore the scenic lakefront of McGovern Lake, where you’ll find plenty of opportunities for a fun day of fishing.

Major improvements to the lake began in 1999, with the old lake being drained and enlarged, and concrete edges added for safety.

The lake now includes three islands, two of which are set aside for migratory birds, making it a beautiful spot for birdwatching.

McGovern Lake offers visitors a scenic spot to relax, watch the birds, and enjoy a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. It’s a popular destination for families and nature enthusiasts, providing a unique outdoor experience and a break from city life.

Pedal boats are available for rent, and catch-and-release fishing is permitted for children under 12 and senior citizens over 65.

Bob’s Fishing Pier is also open for anglers looking to try their luck.

McGovern Lake is a must-visit attraction in Hermann Park Conservancy, perfect for a day out with family and friends.

Tom Bass Park Fishing

Experience a tranquil day of angling at Tom Bass Regional Park, a picturesque spot offering a variety of amenities for visitors of all ages.

Named after Thomas Hutcheson Bass, a high school teacher, college professor, US Army Reserve Officer, State Representative, Harris County Commissioner from 1973-1985, author of textbooks, and volunteer for numerous boards of area non-profit organizations, the park is divided into three sections with unique amenities like a community center, tennis courts, disc golf courses, outdoor fine arts pavilion, dog park, amphitheater, picnic area, BBQ pavilions, and fishing ponds.

Visitors can learn more about facilities and programs at the Tom Bass Community Center, which offers golf, fishing, and an NFL challenge course.

The park also offers amenities for a wide range of interests and prohibits alcoholic beverages, excessive noise, open fires, fireworks, glass bottles/containers, harming wildlife, hunting, littering/dumping, and motorized vehicles on grass areas, trails, and sidewalks.

Vehicles parked overnight are subject to towing and pet waste must be picked up and placed in trash bins.

Pets must be on a leash at all times, except in designated dog parks.

With its tranquil atmosphere and recreational offerings, Tom Bass Park is a great place to spend the day and explore the outdoors.

Next, we’ll discuss the incredible fishing opportunities of Galveston Bay.

Galveston Bay Fishing

Discover the abundance of marine life in Galveston Bay and cast your line for a “reel” adventure in this sub-tropical paradise, where the fish are always biting!

Galveston Bay is home to a variety of fish species, such as Redfish, Flounder, Speckled Trout, Sheepshead, and Black Drum. Redfish and Speckled Trout are the top target species here.

To experience the most successful fishing, charter a boat with a local captain who knows the waters. Shore fishing and kayak fishing are also popular options, and the Texas City Dike is the longest man-made fishing pier in the world.

Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge and Seawolf Park are popular spots for fishermen, while Clear Lake is the best Flounder-fishing spot in the bay. Gigging is an interesting fishing technique for Flounder, and the bay is a great place to experience it.

Fishing in Galveston Bay is a truly memorable experience and an action-packed adventure or a peaceful day outdoors depending on your preference. Regulations are set by the state of Texas, so make sure to get your fishing license if you’re aged 17 or over.

Lake Livingston Fishing

Following the exciting opportunities of fishing in Galveston Bay, anglers can now explore another great fishing spot – Lake Livingston.

Located in the Houston area, Lake Livingston is a great place to catch bass, catfish, white bass, and crappie. With its many coves, bays, and feeder creeks, the lake offers a variety of fishing options.

Anglers can use the Habitat Structure Viewer to locate the PVC fish habitat structures in the reservoir and even use their GPS and fish finder to locate them.

White bass can be caught in the early spring in the feeder creeks, while largemouth bass can be found in the bays and creeks from Kickapoo/Penwaugh area northward. Striped bass can be caught around the 190 bridge area by trolling and vertical jigging.

Channel and blue catfish can be caught year-round on a variety of baits. Anglers should be aware of the special regulations on some species, as well as the bag and size limits.

With so much to offer, Lake Livingston is an excellent fishing destination for anglers of all levels. It’s time to get out and see what the lake has to offer!

What Fishes Are Biting in Houston

Immerse yourself in Houston’s legendary angling scene and get ready for an unforgettable fishing adventure! Houston is a great destination for fishing, offering a variety of freshwater and saltwater species.

From Largemouth Bass and White Bass in the freshwater lakes and rivers, to Redfish and Speckled Trout in the bay and ocean, Houston has something for every angler. The city is also home to Catfish, Smallmouth Bass, Carp, Crappie, Bluegill, Black Drum, Sheepshead, Sharks, Mackerel, and Cobia, and offers a unique fishing experience with a variety of fishing grounds and species to target.

For an enjoyable fishing experience, you can choose charter fishing, shore fishing, or kayak fishing. Lake Houston, Buffalo Bayou, Tom Bass Regional Park, Buffalo Run Park, San Jacinto River, and Galveston Bay are great places to go fishing.

Regardless of the time of year, you can always find a great spot for fishing in Houston. However, it’s important to remember that Buffalo Bayou has a catch-and-release policy and that different fish species can be subject to specific regulations. Make sure to consult the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to ensure fishing is within the law. A fishing license is also required.

So, what are you waiting for? Pack a rod, some tackle, and your favorite bait, and get ready to explore the beauty of Houston’s waterways. With so much to offer, there’s no better way to experience the Bayou City!

Best Season for Fishing in Houston

You can experience the best of Houston’s legendary angling scene any time of the year, with different species biting at different times, so you’re sure to find something to inspire your inner angler! Whether you’re fishing from the shore, from a boat, or from a kayak, Houston has something for everyone.

In the springtime, anglers can target species such as Largemouth Bass and White Bass in Lake Houston and the San Jacinto River.

In the summer, Redfish and Speckled Trout can be found in Clear Lake and the saltwater bays around Houston.

In the fall, anglers can target Flounder in Galveston Bay.

And in the winter, Catfish, Smallmouth Bass, Carp, Crappie, Bluegill, Black Drum, Sheepshead, Sharks, Mackerel, and Cobia can all be found in Houston’s waterways.

Shore Fishing in Houston

Shore fishing is an accessible and affordable way to enjoy the outdoors while fishing in Houston, TX. With the abundance of waterways and lakes in the area, shore fishing offers plenty of opportunities for experienced and novice anglers alike.

Visitors to Houston can fish from the banks of the Buffalo Bayou, Tom Bass Regional Park, Buffalo Run Park, and San Jacinto River, as well as many other public parks. These locations are great for catching Largemouth Bass, White Bass, Speckled Trout, and Redfish, as well as other species.

Additionally, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department offers advice and regulations for fishing within the law. It’s important to remember that a valid fishing license is required, and some locations have catch-and-release policies.

Charter Fishing in Houston

Houston is the ultimate destination for anglers who are looking for an exciting adventure out on the water! From river fishing to inshore fishing, this vibrant city boasts a plethora of fishing opportunities. The most sought-after species in the area include alligator gar, carp, tilapia, and smallmouth buffalo. But the most popular fishing method, especially among locals, is bow fishing.

For those looking to explore the waters of Houston, a charter fishing trip is the perfect way to do it! Prices vary but, on average, a half-day charter can cost around $600 while a full-day charter will usually cost around $1,000. No matter the price, the thrill of discovering a trophy fish is well worth the investment. Plus, with the guidance of a professional captain to lead the way, you’ll have a much higher chance of getting the big catch.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your charter today and get ready for the Houston fishing experience of a lifetime.

From here, you can move on to learning all about the Houston fishing regulations.

Houston Fishing Regulations

Leaving the exciting world of charter fishing in Texas City Dike, it’s time to take a look at the fishing regulations in Houston, Texas. Fishing regulations can be confusing and are often different from one state to another. Knowing what’s legal and what’s not can help make sure that you have a great time and stay within the law.

In Houston, there are a few regulations that all fishermen must follow. It’s illegal to take gamefish by any method other than pole and line. In addition, it’s illegal to take, kill, or disturb sea turtles, endangered or threatened fish species, or diamondback terrapins. It’s also illegal to transport live fish without a permit.

Other regulations include:

• Using game fish or parts of game fish as bait
• Uprooting or digging out any rooted seagrass plant
• Leaving edible fish or bait fish taken from public waters to die
• Releasing a fish with a device or substance implanted or attached to it
• Using more than two poles while fishing
• Selling or buying fish caught in public waters
• Using a firearm, crossbow, bow and arrow, spear, or gig to take fish
• Using a seine, trammel net, or gill net to take fish
• Using a cast net larger than 14ft. in diameter to take fish
• Possessing more than the established length and bag limits

Fishing regulations are designed to keep our fisheries healthy and thriving. Knowing and following the regulations will ensure that you’re fishing responsibly and within the law.

With a little knowledge and preparation, you can ensure that you have a great time fishing in Houston.

Conclusion

Fishing in Houston is an enjoyable experience that provides an array of opportunities to explore the unique natural resources the city has to offer. From the tranquil waters of Lake Houston and Buffalo Bayou to the lively waves of the Gulf of Mexico and the Chandeleur Islands, Houston is home to some of the best fishing spots in the world.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just looking to dip your toes in the water, Houston has something for everyone. Picture yourself standing in the warm Texas sun, line in hand, and the tranquility of the water all around you. That’s the Houston fishing experience.

So, come and join us to experience the beauty and fun of fishing in Houston.