Choke Canyon Lake

Largemouth bass and catfish are the most popular fish in the reservoir. Bass are abundant with frequent reports of double-digit fish being boated. Blue catfish are the most abundant catfish species, but flathead and channel catfish also provide excellent fisheries. White bass provide excellent fishing opportunities in the main Frio River channel during the cooler months and along the northern shoreline during summer.

Choke Canyon reservoir has varied types of habitat including steep rocky banks, flooded timber, shallow brushy flats, and creek channels. Water in the lower portion of the reservoir remains fairly clear throughout the year, while the upper portion of the Frio River channel is typically stained. Small coves and protected creek channels stay fairly clear throughout the year.

Largemouth bass fishermen are most successful on Choke Canyon during the spring, fall, and winter months. Popular spring baits include spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, rattletraps, crankbaits, and unweighted soft plastic worms or jerkbaits. Summer bass fishing on Choke Canyon can be frustrating for even the most experienced fishermen. Topwater baits such as buzzbaits, Zara Spooks, or Pop-R's, presented very early or very late in the day near weedbeds, are popular and can be productive throughout the day if cloud cover is present. Flipping jigs, plastic worms, or tube baits in heavy shaded cover are often productive when nothing else seems to work.

Choke Canyon Lake has special regulations on some fishes. Check current TPWD regulations before your trip.