Big Ones Biting at Travis

Excellent morning trip on Lake Austin with cool, cloudy, and calm conditions helping keep the bite consistent throughout the trip. Water temperatures are sitting in the low 70s with clear water and normal lake levels. Bass are holding shallow around grass and spawning areas, and many of the fish continue to group up tightly in small sections of productive water. Once a fish was located, it was common to catch multiple bass from the same area. The trip produced 20+ bass including two quality fish over 5 pounds. Neko-rigged creature baits produced the biggest bites, while drop-shot rigged finesse worms and topwater baits also contributed throughout the morning. Overall, the shallow bite on Lake Austin continues to be in great shape this May.

Half-day trip on Lady Bird Lake with two anglers produced a solid bite. Water is clear with temperatures in the low 70s and the lake sitting at a normal level. Bass are holding shallow around grass near spawning areas and are grouped up, making it possible to catch multiple fish once a productive spot is located. Drop shot rigged finesse worms and Texas rigged stick worms were the most effective presentations. The bite was good overall, with several quality fish landed including two over 5 pounds, along with a number of solid keeper-sized bass. Consistency came from covering water until fish were found, then slowing down and thoroughly working those key areas.

Inks Lake is sitting at a normal level with stained water and 2–4 feet of visibility. Water temperatures are holding around 56°, and as the lake continues warming up after the recent freeze, largemouth bass are beginning to transition into early pre-spawn patterns. The main spawning push is likely just a few weeks away. The most consistent bite has been on crankbaits around rocky banks and secondary points, as well as shaky head rigged finesse worms around docks in 5–12 feet of water. The fish are grouped up right now, and once you locate them, it’s common to catch multiple bass from the same small area. Slowing down and thoroughly working productive rocky stretches or dock lines has been key. As water temps continue to rise, expect the pre-spawn bite to only get better.