Leon River Kayak-Fishing: Your Guide to Launching from Inez Spring & Catching More
Imagine this: you sip your morning coffee as the sun crests the Texas horizon, then simply wheel your kayak a few feet from your RV and slip into the quiet flow of the Leon River. No crowded boat ramps. No long drives. This is the unparalleled advantage of Leon River kayak fishing right from your doorstep at Inez Spring Riverfront RV Park. This guide is your ultimate resource for transforming our riverfront access into your most memorable fishing adventures, covering everything from seasonal secrets to safety.
Why the Leon River is a Kayak Angler's Dream
The Leon River offers a serene, accessible, and surprisingly productive fishing experience that large lakes simply can’t match. The moment you launch your kayak from our property, you’re immersed in a world of quiet bends, shaded banks, and structure that holds fish year-round. This intimate access is a cornerstone of the unique park Experiences we offer, setting us apart as a true destination for Texas anglers. It’s the perfect, peaceful complement to a day spent on the bigger waters of Lake Leon, which we cover in-depth in our Complete Guide to Lake Leon Fishing.
Gearing Up for Success: Your Kayak Fishing Checklist
Packing smart is the first step to a successful and enjoyable day on the water. Here’s your essential gear checklist for Leon River kayak fishing.
The Kayak: A stable, sit-on-top fishing kayak is ideal. You don’t need a high-speed model; stability for casting and fighting fish is far more important on the river. Many of our guests find our park the perfect Inez Spring fishing basecamp because they can launch their kayak multiple times a day without the hassle of transporting it.
- Safety First (Non-Negotiable): A properly fitted PFD (Life Jacket) must be worn at all times. The TPWD Boater Education hub is an excellent resource for paddling safety and best practices. Always let someone know your plan and check river flow conditions before heading out.
Tackle Management: A small, waterproof tackle box with your essentials is key. Focus on the lures we recommend in our guide to the Best Baits & Lures for Lake Leon and the Leon River. A rod holder mounted on your kayak will keep your hands free for paddling.
- Extras: A dry bag for your phone and keys, plenty of water, sun protection, and a whistle are all must-haves.
Your On-the-Water Playbook: Seasonal Targets & Tactics
The Leon River’s character changes with the seasons, and so should your approach. Here’s how to target the river’s most popular species throughout the year.
The Spring White Bass Run (Late Winter – Spring)
This is the river’s most anticipated event, creating fantastic kayak fishing Eastland opportunities. As water temperatures warm, schools of hard-fighting white bass migrate up the Leon River, providing fast-paced action.
When to Go: Monitor warming trends from late February through April. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) provides seasonal advisories on the run, so check their reports for the latest timing.
- How to Catch: Target current breaks below riffles and the heads of deeper pools. Inline spinners, small white or chartreuse marabou jigs, and mini-swimbaits are deadly. A steady, retrieved swim through these current seams is often all it takes.
Year-Round Largemouth Bass
The river holds a healthy population of bass that are often less pressured than their lake-bound cousins.
- Tactics: Focus on cover. Laydowns (fallen trees), undercut banks, and deep bend pools are prime ambush points. Finesse is key: weightless soft plastics, ned rigs, and small squarebill crankbaits worked slowly will tempt river bass.
Gear: A medium-light rod with 10-20 lb braid (with a fluorocarbon leader) is perfect for feeling subtle bites and wrestling fish out of cover.
Summer Channel Catfish
When the sun is high, the catfish bite can be fantastic, especially in the cooler evening hours.
Tactics: Simple is best. Use a slip-sinker rig with a circle hook baited with cut shad or nightcrawlers. Anchor your kayak near a deep hole or a slow-moving eddy and let the bait sit on the bottom.
How to Launch and Suggested Routes from Inez Spring
One of the biggest advantages of staying with us is the sheer convenience. Our designated riverfront kayak launch provides direct, easy access to the water.
The Strategic Paddle
For the most efficient trip, paddle against the current first. This allows for a relaxing, fish-filled float back to the park, enabling you to cover water thoroughly without exhausting yourself on the return.
Micro-Spots to Target
As you paddle, keep an eye out for these high-percentage areas:
Pools below riffles: Oxygenated water that attracts baitfish and predators.
Shaded bends: Bass and catfish love the cooler water and cover.
Laydowns and logjams: Prime real estate for a big bass to be hiding.
Beyond Fishing: Your Basecamp for Adventure
A Leon River kayak fishing trip is more than just casting a line. It’s about the full experience. After a morning on the water, cool off in our sparkling, spring-fed pool or fire up the grill at one of our riverside picnic and BBQ areas. Explore the natural beauty on our peaceful walking trails.
For those looking to extend their stay and explore more of what Eastland County offers, our “The Area” page is filled with local context and day-trip ideas. Find more local stories and tips on our Texas RV Life Blog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a special permit to kayak fish the Leon River?
You need a valid Texas freshwater fishing license, which you can get through the TPWD freshwater fishing regulations page. No special permit is required for the kayak itself.
Is the Leon River safe for beginner kayak anglers?
Yes, the section of the river accessible from our park is generally calm and perfect for beginners. The most important rule is to always wear your PFD and be aware of your surroundings.
What's the best time of year for kayak fishing on the Leon River?
While it’s productive year-round, spring is fantastic for the white bass run and active bass, while early summer and fall mornings offer excellent topwater action for bass.
Where is the best place to stay for a Leon River kayak fishing trip?
Inez Spring Riverfront RV Park is the ideal choice. We offer direct launch access, plus comfortable RV Sites, Campsites, and Barndominiums to suit every angler’s needs.
Can I fish the Leon River without a kayak?
Absolutely! We have shoreline access for bank fishing. However, a kayak dramatically increases the amount of river you can cover and the number of productive spots you can reach.
Ready to Cast Off from Your Perfect Riverfront Basecamp?
After a day of exploring the Leon River’s quiet bends and hidden holes, there’s no better feeling than returning to a comfortable, well-appointed home base. At Inez Spring, we provide exactly that. Check our Park Map for easy I-20 access and get ready for an unforgettable Texas outdoor experience.