Best Fishing Spots near Bandera County

Bandera County, located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, offers a wide variety of fishing experiences for both locals and visitors. The region features an appealing mix of lakes, rivers, parks, and natural areas that give anglers a chance to catch everything from largemouth bass to panfish. Whether you’re looking for an easy-access lake, a quiet county park, or a scenic river bend, the area around Bandera County has plenty to offer. Note that Medina Lake is not included here due to its current dry conditions.

Fishing conditions in Bandera County and the surrounding area range from clear hill-country creeks to well-maintained public lakes. Anglers can expect to catch fish such as largemouth and Guadalupe bass, sunfish, channel catfish, white bass, and bluegill. In the creeks near Lost Maples, the native Guadalupe bass is especially sought after for its strength and adaptability. A valid Texas fishing license is required for most fishing, and state regulations apply, including bag and size limits for popular species.

One of the most popular spots near Bandera County is Boerne Lake, which covers about 180 acres and reaches depths of more than 40 feet. This lake is part of Boerne City Lake Park in Kendall County, just a short drive from Bandera. Boerne Lake allows non-motorized and electric boats, with convenient kayak rentals and a boat ramp available. Anglers commonly catch largemouth bass, white bass, bluegill, sunfish, and channel catfish. Some bass and catfish here grow to 10 or even 12 pounds. Boerne City Lake Park provides picnic areas, disc golf, playgrounds, and restrooms. Gas-powered boats are not allowed, and anglers should follow all state fishing regulations.

Boerne City Lake Park itself is a hub of outdoor activity on the lake’s edge, with shoreline access, a fishing pier, a boat ramp, kayak launch, and several family-friendly amenities. The park includes a frisbee golf course, volleyball courts, playgrounds, and covered picnic pavilions. A daily parking fee is charged for non-residents, usually around ten dollars. The park is a good place for casual anglers as well as families, but note that alcoholic beverages are not permitted.

For those who want to fish right in Bandera County, Bandera County Park is a relaxing spot along the Medina River, upstream of the dried up Medina Lake. This park is known for its shade trees and relatively quiet waters, making it a peaceful choice for a fishing trip. Anglers report catching sunfish, bass, and catfish from the park’s accessible stretches. With picnic tables, restroom facilities, and fewer crowds than larger parks, Bandera County Park is especially enjoyable in late spring and early fall, when water levels are stable and the fish are more active.

Joshua Springs Park and Preserve, located between Boerne and Comfort in Kendall County, is another great option within easy reach of Bandera County. The park covers roughly 365 acres and features nearly eight miles of trails along with a nine-acre stocked pond fed by Little Joshua Creek. Here, anglers can enjoy catch-and-release fishing for bass, catfish, and crappie. The park also offers picnic areas, wildlife observation blinds, a playground, and a kayak launch. All fishing here is catch-and-release only, and visitors are encouraged to use the park’s facilities respectfully.

Lost Maples State Natural Area is one of the best-known natural sites in the region and includes land in both Bandera and Real counties. This area spans nearly 3,000 acres along the Sabinal River and features rugged canyons, scenic bluffs, and clear streams. Fishing is allowed from the riverbanks and fishing piers on both the Sabinal River and Can Creek. A state fishing license is not required when fishing from shore or pier inside the park. Anglers at Lost Maples can catch Guadalupe bass, largemouth bass (which are catch-and-release only), channel catfish, green sunfish, and bluegill. The park is especially popular during fall, when maple trees put on a colorful display. Before heading out, check for any park alerts or closures due to weather, as heavy rains and flooding can temporarily affect access to trails and camping areas.

Altogether, Bandera County and its neighboring parks and lakes provide a range of options for anglers of every skill level. Whether you’re fishing from a kayak on Boerne Lake, casting from the banks at Bandera County Park, exploring the pond at Joshua Springs, or seeking the wild beauty of Lost Maples, the Hill Country is full of rewarding fishing spots. Bring your gear, check local regulations, and enjoy the best fishing experiences that this unique region has to offer.