The Concho River runs clear and cold through West Texas, holding smallmouth bass, catfish, and sunfish in limestone-bottomed pools

The Concho River is a 90-mile tributary of the Colorado River that flows through San Angelo and the surrounding Hill Country region. The water stays relatively clear year-round because it springs from limestone aquifers rather than runoff, which makes it distinct from many Texas rivers. Smallmouth bass are the primary draw — the river holds a solid population of 12- to 16-inch fish, with occasional larger specimens in deeper pools. Channel catfish and flathead catfish are present throughout, and sunfish (bluegill and longear) are abundant in shallower areas.

Access is straightforward. The river runs through or near several public parks and boat ramps, and much of the middle and lower sections allow wading. The upper Concho (above San Angelo) is smaller and more intimate, with tight banks and overhanging brush. The lower Concho, below Lake Nasworthy, opens up and holds more catfish. Water levels vary with rainfall and dam releases, but the river rarely becomes unfishable — it is one of the more reliable West Texas options.

Key Takeaways

  • Smallmouth bass dominate the Concho, with most fish running 12 to 16 inches; spring and fall are peak seasons when water temperatures favor active feeding.
  • Public access points include Concho Park in San Angelo, the Concho River Wildlife Area near Christoval, and several county boat ramps along the lower river.
  • Texas Parks and Wildlife regulations apply: a valid fishing license is required, and bass have a 14-inch minimum length with a five-fish daily limit.
  • The river holds catfish year-round, especially in deeper holes and below the dam at Lake Nasworthy, making it a solid option when bass are slow.
  • Water clarity is usually good, but heavy rain upstream can cloud the river for 24 to 48 hours; check local conditions before driving out.

Smallmouth Bass Fishing and Best Seasons

Smallmouth bass are the Concho's signature fish. They respond well to small crankbaits, tubes, and soft plastics worked along rocky banks and in current breaks. The river's limestone bottom creates natural structure — look for deeper pools where the current slows, and fish the edges where fast water meets slack water.

Spring (March through May) is the most consistent season. Water temperatures climb into the 60s and 70s, and bass move into shallower areas to feed before spawning. Fall (September through November) is equally productive, with cooler water pushing fish into more active feeding patterns. Summer can be slow during the heat of midday, but early morning and evening trips often produce. Winter is possible but requires patience — fish move to deeper pools and feed less frequently.

The upper Concho, above San Angelo, is tighter and more technical. Smallmouth here are smaller on average (10 to 13 inches) but more abundant. The lower Concho, especially the 15-mile stretch below Lake Nasworthy, holds larger fish in deeper pools and is better suited to boat fishing. Wading is productive in both sections if water levels are normal.

Catfish and Year-Round Fishing

Channel catfish and flathead catfish are present throughout the Concho and offer a reliable alternative when bass are slow. Channel catfish respond to chicken liver, cut shad, and stink baits fished on the bottom in deeper holes. Flatheads are nocturnal hunters and prefer live bluegill or shad; fish for them after dark with heavy tackle and patience.

The lower Concho, below Lake Nasworthy, concentrates catfish in deeper pools and is the best section for dedicated catfish anglers. The area around the dam itself can be productive but is often crowded on weekends. Smaller catfish (5 to 10 pounds) are common; 20-pounders are caught regularly, and larger fish are possible but rare.

Catfish fishing is consistent year-round. Summer nights are most comfortable, but fall and spring offer good action with less heat. Winter catfish fishing is slow but not impossible — fish deeper holes and use fresh bait rather than stink baits, which work better in warmer water.

Access Points and Where to Launch

Concho Park in San Angelo is the main public access point. It has a boat ramp, parking, picnic facilities, and restrooms. The park sits on the lower Concho and is a good starting point for boat fishing or wading downstream. There is a small day-use fee.

The Concho River Wildlife Area near Christoval (about 20 miles north of San Angelo) offers walk-in access and is less crowded than Concho Park. Parking is limited, and there are no facilities, but the river here is scenic and holds good smallmouth populations. This area is managed by Texas Parks and Wildlife and is open to the public during daylight hours.

Several county and private boat ramps exist along the lower river, including ramps near Vancourt and near the confluence with the Colorado River. These are smaller and less developed but offer alternatives to Concho Park. Check locally for current conditions and access policies, as some private ramps may have restrictions.

Wading is possible along much of the river, particularly in the upper and middle sections. Park along county roads where legal and walk down to the water. Always ask permission if crossing private land, and be aware that water levels can rise quickly if the dam releases water upstream.

Regulations, Licenses, and What You Need to Know

A valid Texas fishing license is required for anyone 17 and older. Licenses are available online through the Texas Parks and Wildlife website, at sporting goods stores, and at some convenience stores. They are valid for one year from the date of purchase.

Bass regulations on the Concho follow statewide rules: a 14-inch minimum length limit and a five-fish daily limit. Catfish have no minimum size and no daily limit. Sunfish have no minimum size and a 25-fish daily limit. These rules apply to all sections of the river.

The Concho is a catch-and-release friendly river, and many anglers practice it voluntarily. If you keep fish, keep them on ice and do not leave them in a live well for extended periods in warm weather — the river's water can warm quickly in summer, and fish stress easily.

No special permits are needed to fish the Concho, but some areas (like the Wildlife Area near Christoval) have specific rules about hours and activities. Read posted signs and contact Texas Parks and Wildlife if you have questions about a specific location.

Water Conditions and When to Fish

The Concho's water clarity is one of its strengths. Because it is spring-fed, it stays relatively clear even after rain — though heavy upstream rainfall can cloud it for 24 to 48 hours. Check local weather and recent rainfall before driving out, especially if you are coming from a distance.

Water levels fluctuate based on rainfall and dam releases from Lake Nasworthy. Normal levels are fishable year-round, but high water can make wading dangerous and push fish into the banks. Low water concentrates fish in deeper pools but can make boat access difficult at some ramps. Call Concho Park or check the Texas Parks and Wildlife website for current conditions.

The Concho rarely freezes solid, so winter fishing is possible. However, water temperatures drop into the 40s, and fish become sluggish. If you fish in winter, focus on deeper holes and use slower presentations. Early morning and late afternoon are usually more productive than midday.

Gear and Tackle for the Concho

For smallmouth bass, a 6- to 7-foot medium-action spinning rod with 6- to 8-pound monofilament or braided line works well. Crankbaits in the 1/4- to 3/8-ounce range, soft plastic tubes (3 to 4 inches), and small jigs are effective. The river's rocky bottom means you will lose some tackle — bring extras.

For catfish, a heavier setup is better. A 7- to 8-foot medium-heavy rod with 12- to 20-pound line and a simple slip-sinker rig works for channel catfish. For flatheads, use heavier tackle (20- to 30-pound line) and live bait on a circle hook. A headlamp is essential for night fishing.

Waders are useful if you plan to wade, especially in spring and fall when water is cold. The river bottom is rocky and can be slippery — felt-soled wading boots or shoes with good grip are worth the investment. A small net makes landing fish easier, particularly if you are wading alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to fish the Concho?

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are most consistent for smallmouth bass. Water temperatures are moderate, and fish feed actively. Summer is possible but slower during midday heat. Winter is the slowest season but still fishable in deeper pools.

Do I need a boat to fish the Concho?

No. Wading is productive throughout much of the river, especially in the upper and middle sections. A boat gives you access to more water and deeper pools, but many anglers catch fish from the bank or by wading. Concho Park has a boat ramp if you bring your own.

Are there guides or outfitters on the Concho?

The Concho is less developed for guide services than some Texas rivers. Check with Concho Park or local San Angelo tackle shops for current recommendations. Many anglers fish the river independently using public access points and their own knowledge of the water.

Can I keep fish from the Concho?

Yes. Bass must be at least 14 inches and you can keep up to five per day. Catfish have no size or daily limit. Sunfish have no size limit and a 25-fish daily limit. Check current Texas Parks and Wildlife regulations before you fish, as rules can change.

What should I do if water levels are high?

High water makes wading dangerous and can make boat ramps inaccessible. Focus on fishing from the bank in calmer areas, or wait for levels to drop. Call Concho Park or check the Texas Parks and Wildlife website for current conditions before you drive out.