Links

• Fishing Reports for of this location
• A map showing this fishing location

Description

The upper portion of the San Marcos River, starting at the City Park in San Marcos, is well known as a good spot for canoeing, kayaking and tubing, but it is also a good fishing river. There is limited bank access and the river is mostly too deep for wading, so it is best fished from floatation of some sort. There are some navigation hazards, so it is best to make your first trip with someone who knows the river or to consult some of the available paddling guides, such as TPWD's analysis of Texas waterways or Southwest Paddles (choose “Texas”, then choose “San Marcos”). It is not unusual for trees to fall and block or partially block the river. I believe that the people who profit from kayakers and tubers periodically go through and make sure the river isn’t blocked, but I imagine there is always the chance that a person could encounter a difficult situation on any given day.

The fishing can be a little challenging because trees on both sides overhang the narrow river and are eager to grab your back cast (and your fore cast too!). If you are in a canoe or kayak the river current requires constant paddle adjustments to manage the craft, and it can be difficult to find the time to put the paddle down and pick up your rod. One good approach is to use a kick boat and let your feet manage the boat, freeing your hands to cast. Another good approach is for two people to crew a canoe with one person fishing while the other paddles.