Lake Bastrop: Warm-Water Bass and Catfish Near Town

Lake Bastrop is a 906-acre lake impounded in 1964 and operated by the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) as a cooling reservoir for a power plant. That means water temperatures stay warmer than typical lakes through winter, which keeps bass active when other lakes slow down. The best period for largemouth bass fishing is generally February through June.

TPWD rates the lake's largemouth bass fishery as excellent. The lake has been stocked with Florida largemouth bass. Special bass size limits and gear restrictions apply — check the TPWD Outdoor Annual for current regulations before fishing. The LCRA also prohibits bow fishing at this lake.

The lake supports channel catfish, blue catfish, flathead catfish, crappie, and sunfish. Public access facilities are available. A Texas fishing license with a freshwater endorsement is required. Licenses can be bought online at tpwd.texas.gov, at state parks, and at many sporting goods stores. Check tpwd.texas.gov for weekly fishing reports.