Leon River - A Year-Round Fishing Paradise
In the peaceful countryside of Central Texas, approximately 100 miles west of Fort Worth, you’ll find Eastland County with its wealth of fishing opportunities. The Leon River and several lakes in the area offer anglers diverse experiences throughout the year. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or just looking to cast a line for the first time, this region provides abundant waters teeming with various fish species and the tranquility that makes fishing such a beloved pastime.
The Leon River winds through Eastland County, creating a scenic fishing destination with multiple access points. This river offers excellent opportunities for both bank fishing and wading, with deeper holes perfect for those seeking larger catches.
Fishing Access on the Leon River
Finding good access to the Leon River is key to a successful fishing expedition. While some portions of the river run through private property, there are several public access points available to anglers:
Inez Spring Riverfront RV Park offers some of the best access to the Leon River. A day pass rate applies for access to this pristine stretch of riverfront access which provides extensive shoreline access for bank fishing along the river, picnic tables, and parking. The river bank is perfect for anglers who prefer to keep their feet on solid ground. For those who want to explore more of the river, the park also maintains a convenient boat launch specifically designed for small watercraft such as kayaks and canoes This launch gives you the freedom to float and fish sections of the river that are otherwise difficult to reach, opening up prime fishing spots away from the crowds.
Highway Crossings provide another option for accessing the Leon River. Several bridges where roads cross the river offer parking and access points. Notable locations include the crossings at FM 2461, CR 495, and US 183, where anglers can often find paths leading down to the water.
Public Parks in the region, such as the areas near Gorman and De Leon, provide some access points to the river with basic facilities like parking and occasionally picnic tables.
Seasonal Fishing Guide
Spring (March-May) Spring is prime time on the Leon River as water temperatures rise and fish become more active. This is the spawning season for many species, making it ideal for catching:
- Largemouth Bass – Target shallow coves and structures where bass build nests
- White Bass – Look for the spring runs when they move upstream to spawn
- Crappie – Excellent fishing around submerged brush and timber
- Catfish – Channel and blue catfish become increasingly active as waters warm
During spring, the river’s flow is typically higher due to seasonal rains, which can create challenging but rewarding conditions. Early mornings and evenings tend to be most productive, especially for bass fishing.
Summer (June-August) Summer brings warmer water temperatures, shifting fish to deeper holes and shaded areas:
- Catfish – Prime season for channel, blue, and flathead catfish
- Largemouth Bass – Early morning and late evening fishing becomes crucial
- Sunfish – Bluegill and red ear sunfish are abundant and eager to bite
Summer fishing on the Leon requires patience and a switch to slower presentations. Focus on deeper pools where fish retreat to escape the heat, especially during midday.
Fall (September-November) Fall creates excellent fishing conditions as water temperatures cool:
- Largemouth Bass – Become very active, feeding heavily before winter
- Crappie – Begin schooling more tightly around the structure
- Catfish – Continue to provide consistent action, especially in deeper holes
The cooling temperatures trigger feeding frenzies as fish prepare for winter, making fall one of the most productive seasons on the Leon.
Winter (December-February) While fishing slows during winter, dedicated anglers can still find success:
- Catfish – Move to deeper, more stable water temperatures
- Crappie – Can be caught in deeper water with slower presentations
- Largemouth Bass – Require patience but can be caught on warmer days
Winter fishing on the Leon River often means focusing on the deepest holes where fish congregate to find more stable temperatures.
Best Baits for Leon River
For Bass:
- Plastic worms (watermelon and junebug colors work well)
- Crankbaits that mimic local baitfish
- Topwater lures during early morning and evening
- Spinnerbaits around structure and vegetation
For Catfish:
- Fresh cut bait (sunfish or shad)
- Chicken liver
- Prepared stink baits
- Live worms or night crawlers
For Crappie:
- Small jigs in white, chartreuse, or pink
- Minnows under a bobber
- Small spinners
- Tube jigs around the structure
For Sunfish:
- Crickets or grasshoppers
- Small worms
- Tiny jigs or spinners
- Small pieces of hot dog or bread
Lake Leon - Eastland's Premier Fishing Destination
Just a short drive southwest of Eastland, Lake Leon covers approximately 640 acres and offers excellent fishing opportunities throughout the year. Built in 1954, this reservoir on the Leon River has developed into a mature fishery with diverse habitat.
What You'll Catch at Lake Leon
Largemouth Bass Lake Leon has a reputation for quality bass fishing, with many fish in the 2-4 pound range and occasional trophy catches exceeding 8 pounds. The lake features numerous coves, points, and submerged timber that provide excellent bass habitat.
Crappie Both black and white crappie thrive in Lake Leon. The submerged brush piles, bridge pilings, and standing timber create perfect habitat. Spring and fall see the best crappie fishing, but winter can produce impressive catches in deeper water.
Catfish Channel, blue, and flathead catfish are abundant in Lake Leon. The upper end of the lake, where the Leon River enters, is particularly productive for catfish. Summer nights are especially good for catfish fishing, with some flatheads exceeding 20 pounds.
Sunfish Bluegill, redear sunfish, and green sunfish provide constant action, particularly for younger anglers. These panfish can be caught year-round but are especially active during the spring and summer months near the shorelines.
White Bass While not as abundant as in some nearby lakes, white bass provide seasonal action, particularly during their spring spawning runs up the Leon River.
Fishing Access at Lake Leon
Lake Leon offers multiple access points for anglers:
- Lake Leon Marina provides boat ramps, bait, and supplies
- Public fishing piers ideal for those without boats
- Shoreline access around much of the lake
- A fishing license and Lake Leon permit (available at the lake office) are required
Best Techniques for Lake Leon
- Bass fishing – Texas-rigged plastic worms, crankbaits along points, and topwater action early and late in the day
- Crappie fishing – Vertical jigging around brush piles and bridge pilings
- Catfish – Bottom fishing with cut bait or prepared baits in deeper channels
- Sunfish – Small hooks with live bait near shoreline structure
Proctor Lake - Worth the Drive
About 40 minutes south of Eastland, Proctor Lake offers 4,600 acres of fishing opportunity. While technically in Comanche County, its proximity makes it a worthwhile destination for Eastland anglers.
Proctor is known for outstanding white bass runs in the spring, along with healthy populations of largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie. The lake features numerous stump fields, standing timber, and creek channels that hold fish throughout the year.
During spring, the white bass run up the Sabana and Leon Rivers provides fast-paced action. Summer brings excellent night fishing for catfish, while fall and winter are prime for crappie fishing in deeper structures.
Staff Creek Reservoir - Hidden Gem
This smaller 126-acre lake northwest of Eastland offers less fishing pressure than larger bodies of water. Staff Creek is particularly good for:
- Quality largemouth bass (with a slot limit protecting mid-sized fish)
- Excellent catfish populations
- Bank fishing opportunities
- Peaceful atmosphere away from crowds
The Growth of Fishing Tourism in Eastland County
Fishing tourism has become increasingly important to Eastland County’s economy. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has invested in habitat improvement projects on several area lakes, and local businesses have responded by providing improved services for anglers.
Each year, fishing tournaments at Lake Leon and nearby waters bring competitors from across the state, contributing to the local economy through lodging, dining, and retail purchases. The Eastland Chamber of Commerce estimates that fishing and outdoor recreation contribute significantly to the area’s tourism revenue.
Plan Your Fishing Trip
If you’re planning a fishing trip to Eastland County, consider making it a weekend adventure to fully explore the diverse fishing opportunities. Accommodations range from lakeside cabins at Lake Leon to hotels and motels in Eastland proper.
Remember that Texas fishing regulations apply, and a valid Texas fishing license is required for anglers 17 and older. Some bodies of water may have specific regulations regarding bag limits and size restrictions, so check current rules before your trip.
The best way to experience fishing in Eastland County is to take your time, explore different waters, and perhaps chat with local anglers who are often willing to share advice (if not their exact fishing spots). Many bait shops and convenience stores in the area can provide current fishing information and tips.
Whether you’re targeting trophy bass, aiming to fill a stringer with catfish, or simply enjoying a peaceful day on the water with family, the waters around Eastland offer fishing experiences that capture the authentic spirit of rural Texas. So grab your tackle box, pack your patience, and discover why this region has become a favorite destination for anglers seeking both quality fishing and small-town charm.
