What You'll Find at Lake LBJ

Lake Lyndon B. Johnson is a 6,374-acre reservoir on the Colorado River in Burnet and Llano counties, about 50 miles northwest of Austin. The lake holds largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, catfish, and striped bass, with largemouth being the most reliable target year-round. The water is clear to moderately clear depending on recent rainfall, and the lake's rocky shoreline and submerged timber create distinct structure that concentrates fish in predictable locations.

The lake runs roughly north to south for about 23 miles, with numerous coves and creek arms that branch off the main channel. Depth ranges from shallow flats near the dam to over 60 feet in the main lake basin. Because LBJ sits between two other Highland Lakes reservoirs—Lake Marble Falls to the south and Lake Inks to the north—it receives steady water flow and maintains stable levels year-round, which keeps fish patterns consistent.

Key Takeaways

  • Largemouth bass fishing is best from March through June and again in fall, with summer requiring early morning or evening trips to deeper water and structure.
  • Public boat ramps are located at Burnet Park, Bluffton Park, and Sunrise Beach Park, with day-use fees typically $5 to $8 per vehicle.
  • Striped bass are present but less abundant than at nearby Lake Marble Falls; catfish are reliable year-round in deeper holes and near the dam.
  • Texas Parks and Wildlife Department regulates the lake; a valid Texas fishing license is required for anyone 17 and older, and bass have a 5-fish daily limit with a 14-inch minimum length.

Seasons and What to Expect

Spring (March through May) is the peak season for largemouth bass at LBJ. Fish move shallow to spawn in coves and along rocky banks, and they feed aggressively before and after the spawn. Water temperatures climb from the mid-50s to the low 70s, and topwater lures, soft plastics, and crankbaits all produce. The lake can get crowded on weekends, particularly around the boat ramps and popular coves like Sunrise Cove and Bluffton Cove.

Summer (June through August) shifts the bite deeper. Largemouth retreat to 20 to 40 feet of water and structure during the day, becoming most active at dawn and dusk. Early morning trips before 9 a.m. are far more productive than midday fishing. Striped bass become more active in summer and can be found suspending in the main lake channel; live shad or shad-pattern swimbaits work well. Catfish remain active throughout the day in deep holes and near the dam.

Fall (September through November) brings another strong largemouth bite as water temperatures drop and fish return to shallower structure. Baitfish move into coves, and bass follow. October and early November are often as good as spring. Winter (December through February) slows the bite considerably, but catfish remain catchable, and occasional largemouth can be found in the deepest holes on the warmest days.

Access and Boat Ramps

Three public boat ramps provide access to Lake LBJ. Burnet Park, operated by Burnet County, is on the north end of the lake and offers a two-lane concrete ramp, parking for roughly 30 vehicles, and restroom facilities. Day-use parking is typically $5 per vehicle. Bluffton Park, also county-operated, sits on the west side of the lake and has a single-lane ramp with adequate parking and similar day-use fees.

Sunrise Beach Park, on the east side near the dam, is the most developed facility and includes a two-lane ramp, a marina with fuel and tackle, a restaurant, and lodging. Day-use parking here runs $8 per vehicle. All three ramps are open year-round, though water levels can occasionally affect launch conditions during extended drought. Call ahead if you are visiting during a dry period to confirm ramp conditions.

Private marinas and resorts around the lake also offer launch access for a fee, typically $10 to $15, and some include amenities like tackle shops and guide services. Shoreline access is limited because most of the lake is privately owned, so boat access is the primary way to fish most of the water.

Bass Fishing Techniques and Locations

Largemouth bass at LBJ respond well to structure-focused presentations. Rocky banks and bluff walls along the main channel hold fish year-round, particularly where baitfish congregate. Crankbaits that mimic shad are effective in spring and fall when fish are shallow. Soft plastic worms and creature baits work in deeper water and around submerged timber. Topwater lures produce explosive strikes in early morning and late evening, especially in coves during spring and fall.

Smallmouth bass are present but less abundant than largemouth. They prefer the rockier, deeper structure along the main channel and respond to small crankbaits, drop-shot rigs, and finesse presentations. Fishing the bluff walls on the east side of the main lake basin is a reliable way to locate smallmouth, particularly in spring and fall.

Striped bass are stocked periodically by Texas Parks and Wildlife but do not reproduce naturally in LBJ. They are more abundant at Lake Marble Falls, 15 miles south. When stripers are present at LBJ, they suspend in the main channel in 30 to 50 feet of water and respond to live shad, jigging spoons, and vertical presentations. Early morning and late evening are most productive.

Catfish and Other Species

Channel catfish are abundant at Lake LBJ and provide a reliable alternative when bass are slow. Fish the deeper holes in the main lake basin, particularly near the dam and in the lower end of creek arms. Cut shad, chicken liver, and prepared catfish baits work well. Night fishing is traditional but not required; catfish bite throughout the day, especially in summer. A simple rod and reel with a slip sinker rig is all you need.

Flathead catfish have also established themselves in LBJ and grow large. They prefer live baitfish, particularly live bluegill or small shad, fished at night in deep water. Flatheads are aggressive predators and will take lively baits readily. Check current Texas Parks and Wildlife regulations for any size or bag limits on flathead catfish, as these can change.

Sunfish and crappie are present in shallow coves and around structure but are not a primary draw for most anglers. They can provide good action for children or as a secondary target when bass fishing is slow.

Regulations and Licensing

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department manages Lake LBJ under standard statewide regulations. A valid Texas fishing license is required for anyone 17 years old and older. Licenses are available online through the Texas Parks and Wildlife website, at sporting goods retailers, and at some bait shops. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license if you are visiting for a short trip.

Largemouth and smallmouth bass have a combined daily limit of 5 fish per person with a 14-inch minimum length. Striped bass, where present, have separate limits that vary; check the current regulations before fishing. Channel catfish have no size or bag limit. Flathead catfish also have no size limit, but bag limits may apply; verify current rules before your trip.

The lake is open to public fishing year-round. No special permits are required beyond the standard fishing license. Tournaments and organized fishing events may require additional permits; contact the lake management office or a local marina for details if you plan to participate in or host an event.

Nearby Resources and Services

Sunrise Beach Park, at the south end of the lake, offers the most comprehensive on-site services: fuel, tackle, bait, a restaurant, and lodging. Several private marinas and resorts around the lake provide similar services at varying price points. Burnet, the county seat, is about 10 miles north and has grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants.

Llano, about 15 miles east, is a larger town with more dining and lodging options. Both towns have bait and tackle shops that stock local knowledge and current conditions reports. If you are planning a multi-day trip, lodging ranges from budget motels to vacation rentals and resort cabins around the lake and in nearby towns.

Lake Marble Falls, 15 miles south, and Lake Inks, 20 miles north, are both within easy driving distance if you want to fish multiple Highland Lakes reservoirs during a single trip. Each has distinct characteristics and fish populations, so combining them can provide variety.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to fish Lake LBJ?

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are the most productive seasons for largemouth bass. Water temperatures are moderate, fish are active and shallow, and the weather is comfortable. Summer requires early morning or evening fishing to avoid the heat and find active fish in deeper water.

Do I need a boat to fish Lake LBJ?

Yes, shoreline access is very limited because most of the lake is privately owned. A boat is necessary to reach most productive fishing water. Public boat ramps are available at Burnet Park, Bluffton Park, and Sunrise Beach Park, and rental boats are available at some marinas if you do not have your own.

Are striped bass common at Lake LBJ?

Striped bass are stocked periodically but do not reproduce naturally in LBJ, so they are less abundant than at nearby Lake Marble Falls. When present, they are found in the main channel in deeper water. If stripers are your primary target, Lake Marble Falls is a more reliable choice.

What size bass can I keep at Lake LBJ?

Largemouth and smallmouth bass have a combined daily limit of 5 fish with a 14-inch minimum length. This means you can keep up to 5 bass total (both species combined) as long as each fish is at least 14 inches long. Check current Texas Parks and Wildlife regulations before your trip, as rules can change.

Can I fish at night on Lake LBJ?

Yes, night fishing is permitted year-round. Many anglers fish at night for catfish, which are active feeders after dark. If you plan to fish at night, use navigation lights on your boat and follow all boating safety regulations. Bring a headlamp or flashlight and let someone know your plans.