By:
Shane Reynolds, Outdoor Recreation Director and Outfitter
Bass fishing in Texas is more than just a pastime, it’s a way of life for many anglers. With its vast network of lakes, reservoirs and rivers, Texas offers some of the best bass fishing opportunities in the country, making it a destination for both amateur and seasoned fishermen.
Growing up in East Texas between Lake Sam Rayburn and Toledo Bend, little did I know that my childhood lakes would lay the foundation for my love of chasing bass. I consider myself blessed in many ways by having two grandfathers who absolutely loved bass fishing. One of my grandfathers lived on Lake Sam Rayburn and the other on Dam B, as the locals would call it, and its name on a map is Steinhagen Reservoir. Both of my grandfathers would take me on their boats as a child and introduced me to bass fishing.
One of the greatest joys of bass fishing in Texas is the sheer variety of locations to explore. From the sprawling waters of Lake Fork, known for producing trophy-sized largemouth bass, to the scenic beauty of Lake Amistad or the more secluded Sam Rayburn Reservoir, there’s a spot for every type of angler. Each lake has its own unique ecosystem, offering different fishing challenges and rewards. The Devils River is by far my favorite place to fish for bass, but other rivers in central Texas share a place in my heart for bass fishing: San Marcos River, Guadalupe River and the Llano River are my other favorites.
The thrill of reeling in a big bass is unmatched. In Texas, bass are known to grow large, with the state record at an impressive 18.18 pounds. Whether you’re fishing from a boat or casting from the shore, the anticipation of feeling that tug on the line brings excitement and satisfaction.
Beyond the catch, bass fishing in Texas offers a chance to connect with nature. With its diverse landscapes, from pine forests to rolling hills and open plains, spending time on the water often means being surrounded by stunning natural beauty. The peace and quiet of an early morning fishing trip, with the sun rising over the water, provides a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
I have fished with my kids since they could each walk and hold a rod. They both enjoy bass fishing with me, and my son has recently expressed an interest in fishing with his high school team. As a lifelong recreational fisherman, learning the competitive aspects of bass fishing has been a quick lesson on components of bass fishing I’m not 100% comfortable with, especially the recent phenomena of using live forward-facing sonar (FFS) to locate and target bass. I personally do not believe FFS should be allowed in competitive fishing but it’s here and I will adapt for the time being. I do not have to draw on any of the knowledge I have acquired over 50 years of bass fishing or the God-given instincts that have enabled me to enjoy this for 50 years. You put your trolling motor in the water, see fish and cast at them. Frankly, it’s not fun. It’s not exciting. But if you want to compete at bass fishing, you have to do it. I cannot use or teach the skills I’ve acquired or my instincts to fish in many different ways. Unfortunately, you would have zero chance to win or compete without utilizing FFS. Luckily the organizations who sponsor competitive fishing are actively weighing the use FFS.
I look forward to spending so many hours in the near future with my son and his team members on the lakes of Texas fishing for bass. As a boat captain, my input will be limited but the memories made will be my joy. I’m excited to share outdoor experiences and teach young anglers all the things needed to fish for bass: to have an understanding of how weather affects bass, reading electronics, how to map out a lake, and the many different fishing techniques for each season. After you develop those skills, then execution becomes very important: being able to present lures correctly, matching equipment with presentation, the ability to read the water, and landing the fish. Becoming a good angler is an evolution that takes years of experience.
Texas’ warm climate also means that bass fishing can be enjoyed year-round. Texas offers endless opportunities to experience the joy of bass fishing and create lasting memories.
Shane Reynolds is the Outdoor Recreation Director & Outfitter at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. He can be reached at outfitter@cordilleraranch.com and 210.616.6051, or at the Cordillera Ranch Outfitter Center at 830.336.4823.
