Lake Austin Fishing Report for today, April 21, 2025
Howdy anglers, this is Artificial Lure checking in with your up-to-date Lake Austin fishing report. Conditions are lining up for a great spring bite. As of this morning, the water temperature sits right around 65 degrees with a slight stain, and lake levels are just under half a foot below full pool. No tidal swings here, but fish activity is peaking early and late in the day.
The weather is mild and comfortable. Early morning temps started near 60 degrees, warming into the mid-70s by afternoon. We have partly cloudy skies and just a light breeze, which makes for perfect casting conditions. Sunrise was at 7:14 AM, and sunset will be at 7:50 PM, so there’s a full day of daylight to wet a line.
Bass are the main attraction and they’re in shallow water, with most finished spawning but still hanging near their beds. Recently, anglers have landed plenty of 1-to-3-pound largemouth, with the occasional bigger female showing up on the inside grass lines and around docks and laydowns. There’s also been a few standout catches, like a 6-pound bass and even a hefty 60-inch alligator gar caught this week. Flathead catfish and grass carp are also showing up in the mix.
Right now, the best lures for bass are wacky worms, dropshots, small swimbaits, and Texas rigs. Work those presentations around the grass edges and any visible beds. For live bait, nightcrawlers and small shad are your best bet, especially if you’re after catfish or grass carp.
If you're looking for a couple of hot spots, focus on the stretches between Walsh Landing and Emma Long, especially near the deeper grass pockets and around Steiner Ranch. The docks near City Park are also producing, especially early in the morning and again near sundown.
To sum it up, Lake Austin is hot right now for bass, and catfish are picking up. Grab your favorite soft plastics or a lively worm, stick to the grass lines and docks, and you’ll be in for a good day. Tight lines and happy fishing!