Fishing Lake Buchanan
AKA: Buchanan Reservoir
Popular Fish Species Lake Buchanan, TX
White Bass Fishing
White bass are aggressive, hard-fighting and just plain fun to catch. Numerous successful spawn years have increased the population of white bass in Lake Buchanan, and anglers can expect some great fishing this year. When fishing for white bass, the average fish is typically in the one- to two-pound range. These schooling fish tend to roam around the lake looking for ideal water conditions and baitfish. Look for them to generally be in 15 to 35 feet of water, whether they are hovering around the bottom or swimming in open water. Fish finders are the best way to locate big schools of white bass. Fish near the bottom at night with live bait. In spring, once the water temperature rises into the mid sixties, they move shallow into the backs of coves and creek channels to spawn. When white bass chase schools of bait near the surface, spinners, spoons and small crank baits work well. At this time anglers can fish from shore and often do quite well. Use lures that imitate baitfish, including small crankbaits, small jerkbaits, jigs and spoons.
Striped Bass Fishing
Due to their large size, striped bass are a favorite of many locals and fishing guides at Lake Buchanan. They are plentiful, run in schools and can grow to bragging size. In Spring and Fall work the upper end of the lake where water is flowing into the lake. Look for deeper water in the river channel, as a holding place for stripers. In Summer and Winter, stripers hang out in deeper water during the day Morning often draws the stripers to much shallower water, look for them from the surface down to around the 20-foot range as they feed on shallow-running schools of bait. The lake is filled with plenty of baitfish and sunfish to to keep the fishery thriving. Being successful at fishing for stripers is a matter of locating schools of bait, and the wolf packs of stripers which are likely to be nearby. Fish finders, and forward facing sonar, are a big help in locating these roaming schools. Live bait is very effective here, and stripers can be caught year round.
Channel Catfish Fishing
To fish for catfish on Lake Buchanan, most any rod and reel will work, as long as the line is strong enough. Flathead catfish and blue catfish also reside in the lake and fishing for them is often good as well. For serious catfish enthusiasts, using the right equipment improves success. A medium action, to medium-heavy action rod is ideal, in the 6' to 7' range. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with popular catfish baits on at least 10-pound line. Use sharp hooks with bait holders on the shank, or circle hooks for live bait. Lake Buchanan has a decent population of channel catfish, and they are eager to bite. The typical fish are about 2 pounds, with larger ones caught frequently. Night fishing for catfish often delivers better results than daytime fishing. Fishing for channel catfish is often most productive around any kind of structure in the area. In Spring channel catfish migrate toward incoming water, so stay up river away from the main lake. In early summer look for rocky banks, the bigger the rocks the better. In summer and winter deeper structure is where to look. The river end of the lake is often the area where the bigger catfish are caught. Road beds, creek channels and rocky points are all good places to begin.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, blue catfish, black crappie, white crappie, bluegill, redbreast sunfish, white bass, hybrid striped bass, longnose gar and spotted gar at Lake Buchanan in Central Texas.
Lake Buchanan Fishing Video
Widely renown for great striper and white bass fishing, Lake Buchanan is a 22,300-acre reservoir in the south-central part of the state. Over 120 miles of shoreline await anglers fishing from the bank or fishing from a boat. Rocks and brush are the primary cover here but don't overlook the many docks and boathouses around the lake.
Lake Buchanan, located in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, is a renowned fishing destination that offers a wealth of opportunities for anglers. The lake is known for its excellent fishing prospects, attracting enthusiasts from far and wide. Largemouth bass is the most sought-after species at Lake Buchanan, with the lake consistently producing trophy-sized bass. Anglers can also target other popular species such as striped bass, white bass, catfish, and crappie. The diverse fish population ensures that there is always something biting, providing anglers with exciting and rewarding fishing experiences.
Other fish residing here include catfish, bass, crappie, sunfish, hybrid striped bass and gar. Boat rentals are available. If you choose to bring your boat, five boat ramps are available, one on the west side of the lake and four on the east side. Numerous places around the lake provide access to portage a kayak or canoe.
Primary fish species residing in Lake Buchanan
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Lake Buchanan Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Another favorite activity on Lake Buchanan is boating, as the lake's vast surface area and picturesque surroundings make it ideal for water-based adventures. Whether it's sailing, water skiing, or simply cruising along the tranquil waters, boaters have plenty of space to enjoy their favorite activities. The lake features boat ramps and marinas, ensuring convenient access for boating enthusiasts. Exploring Lake Buchanan by boat allows visitors to soak in the natural beauty, marvel at the stunning cliffs and scenic vistas, and fully appreciate the serenity of the lake.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Burnet County Park Public Boat Ramp
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, off Road 2341, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Cedar Point Boat Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, in the Cedar Point Recreational Area, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a gravel parking.
Llano County Park Public Boat Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off Road 261, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.
Marinas
Thunderbird Lodge Marina
200 Greenwood Hills Trail
Burnet, TX 78611
512 756-4878
Fishing Guides On Lake Buchanan
Lake Buchanan Striper Fishing Guide Service - striped bass
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Texas Fishing License.
Camping is a favored pastime at Lake Buchanan, providing an opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of the surroundings and enjoy a peaceful retreat. The lake offers several campgrounds, ranging from primitive sites to RV-friendly facilities, accommodating a variety of camping preferences. Campers can savor the serene ambiance, engage in activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing, and enjoy evenings by campfires beneath the starry sky. Camping at Lake Buchanan allows visitors to disconnect from the demands of daily life and connect with nature.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Black Rock Park Campground - 512 473-3366
Hiline Resort RV Park Campground - 325 379-1065
Texas Hills RV Haven - 325 379-1740
Beachcomber Park Campground - 325 379-3083
Banta Circle RV Park - 512 793-6148
Long Mountain RV Park - 512 793-2300
Big Chief RV Resort - 512 793-4746
Lake Buchanan TX Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Lake Buchanan
Hiline Resort
2421 Ranch Rd 3014
Tow, TX 78672
325 379-1065
Fishing lakes in each state.
091424
Lake Buchanan in Central Texas.
TEXAS
Information about fishing lakes in Central Texas
Lake Buchanan offers exceptional striped bass and white bass fishing in Central TX.
