What Inks Lake Offers and When to Fish It
Inks Lake is a 803-acre reservoir in Burnet County, about 45 minutes north of Austin, formed by a dam on the Colorado River. The lake holds largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, and sunfish. Water clarity varies with season and recent rainfall — spring and early summer often bring clearer water and more active fish, while late summer can turn the lake murky. Fall through early spring is reliable for bass and catfish, with cooler water temperatures pushing fish into predictable patterns.
The lake sits within Inks Lake State Park, which means day-use and overnight access both require entry through the park. The park charges a day-use fee per vehicle; overnight camping costs vary by site type and season. Most anglers fish from the shoreline, boat ramps, or by renting boats through the park concessionaire. The lake is relatively shallow in many areas, which concentrates fish and makes it accessible to wade fishers and kayakers as well as conventional boats.
Key Takeaways
- Inks Lake State Park controls all access, and you must pay day-use or camping fees to enter — there is no free public access to the shoreline.
- Largemouth bass fishing is strongest from October through May, with spring (March–May) offering the best combination of active fish and comfortable weather.
- The lake has two boat ramps inside the park, and the concessionaire rents boats by the hour or day if you do not bring your own.
- Texas Parks and Wildlife Department regulations require a valid fishing license for anyone 17 and older, and the lake follows standard statewide bag and size limits.
- The park has limited camping and day-use parking, so arriving early on weekends is necessary, especially during spring and fall.
Bass Fishing Seasons and Techniques
Largemouth bass are the primary draw at Inks Lake. Fall (September–November) and winter (December–February) produce steady fishing as water temperatures drop and bass move into deeper channels and creek arms. Early morning and late afternoon are most productive, though winter midday fishing can work if you fish deeper structure. Spring (March–May) is peak season — warming water triggers spawning behavior, and bass move into shallower areas where they are easier to locate and catch.
Summer (June–August) is slowest. Water temperatures exceed 85°F, and bass retreat to deeper water and shade. If you fish summer, focus on early morning before 9 a.m., fish deeper channels, and use live bait or slower presentations. The lake's shallow areas make it well-suited to sight-fishing during clear-water periods in spring and early summer — polarized sunglasses and a slow approach pay off.
Effective techniques include topwater plugs and soft plastics near vegetation and rocky banks, crankbaits in deeper water, and live shiners or crawfish. The lake has scattered brush piles and submerged timber that hold fish; ask park staff or the boat rental operator where recent structure has been reported.
Catfish and Other Species
Channel catfish and flathead catfish inhabit Inks Lake and provide an alternative to bass fishing, especially for anglers who prefer night fishing or live-bait methods. Catfish bite year-round, with spring and fall offering the most consistent action. Fish cut bait (shad, mackerel, or chicken liver) on the bottom in deeper holes, particularly near the dam and in the main channel. Flatheads prefer live bluegill or shad and are most active at night.
Crappie fishing occurs in spring and fall when water temperatures are moderate. Fish small jigs or live minnows around submerged structure, fallen trees, and the deeper edges of creek arms. Sunfish (bluegill, longear sunfish) are abundant and provide good action for children and beginners, especially around shallow vegetation and near the park's fishing pier.
Access, Boat Ramps, and Facilities
Inks Lake State Park is located at 3630 Park Road 4, Burnet, Texas 78611. The park operates two boat ramps: one near the main park entrance and one on the north side of the lake. Both ramps are paved and maintained, though they can become congested on weekends. Day-use parking is available near the ramps and fishing areas, but spaces fill quickly during spring and fall weekends.
If you do not have a boat, the park concessionaire rents fishing boats, pontoons, and kayaks. Boat rentals are available by the hour or full day; call ahead during peak season to reserve. The park also has a fishing pier accessible to day-use visitors, which is useful for anglers without boats or those wanting to fish without launching. Bait and tackle are not sold inside the park, so bring your own or stop at a tackle shop in Burnet before entering.
The park has restrooms, picnic areas, and a swimming beach. Overnight camping includes tent sites, RV sites with hookups, and screened shelters. Reservations for camping are made through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department reservation system and are essential during spring break, summer weekends, and fall.
Regulations and Licensing
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department regulations apply to Inks Lake. All anglers 17 years and older must carry a valid Texas fishing license. Licenses are available online, by phone, or at retail locations in Burnet. A one-day license is cheaper than a full-year license if you fish only occasionally.
Largemouth bass have a 14-inch minimum length limit and a daily bag limit of five fish. Catfish have no size limit and a 25-fish daily bag limit. Crappie have a 10-inch minimum and a 25-fish daily bag limit. Sunfish have no size or bag limit. Trotlines and juglines are permitted for catfish but require a separate permit. Check the current Texas Parks and Wildlife Department fishing guide before your trip, as regulations can change.
When to Visit and What to Expect
Spring (March–May) is the busiest and most productive season. Water temperatures are warming, bass are active, and weather is mild. Expect crowded boat ramps and full parking on weekends. Arrive by 7 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays to secure a spot. Fall (September–November) is nearly as good for fishing and slightly less crowded, with cooler temperatures making all-day fishing comfortable.
Summer is hot and slow for bass but remains viable for catfish and early-morning topwater fishing. Winter (December–February) is quiet and uncrowded, with reliable bass fishing in deeper water, though water temperatures can be cold. The lake rarely freezes, but wind and rain are common. Spring and fall require sun protection and hydration; summer demands early starts and shade breaks; winter requires warm layers.
Nearby Resources and Tackle Shops
Burnet is the nearest town, about 10 miles south of the park. Several tackle shops stock local knowledge and bait. The Burnet Chamber of Commerce can provide current information on water conditions and recent catches. Inks Lake State Park headquarters, located at the main entrance, has maps, information on recent fish activity, and details on boat rental availability.
If Inks Lake is full or crowded, nearby alternatives include Lake Buchanan (about 20 miles north) and Lake Travis (about 30 miles south), both larger reservoirs with more boat ramps and facilities. Lake Buchanan holds striped bass and largemouth bass; Lake Travis is known for striped bass and catfish. Both require the same Texas fishing license and have similar regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a boat to fish Inks Lake?
No. The park has a fishing pier, and you can fish from the shoreline at designated areas. Boat rentals are available through the park concessionaire if you want to access deeper water or distant structure. Kayaks are also rented and are effective for reaching shallow bays and creek arms.
What is the best time of year to catch largemouth bass?
Spring (March–May) is peak season because warming water triggers spawning and bass move into shallower areas. Fall (September–November) is nearly as good, with cooler water and active fish. Summer is slowest; winter is productive but requires fishing deeper water and early mornings.
Can I fish at night?
Yes. Night fishing is permitted and is particularly effective for catfish. Bring a headlamp or flashlight, and be aware that boat traffic decreases after dark, making navigation safer. The park remains open to overnight campers, so night fishing is accessible if you camp or fish from shore.
What should I bring besides a rod and reel?
Bring a Texas fishing license, sunscreen, water, and snacks. Polarized sunglasses help you sight-fish in shallow water. If you are launching a boat, bring a life jacket for each person. Bait and tackle are not sold in the park, so purchase them in Burnet beforehand.
How much does it cost to fish Inks Lake?
Day-use entry to Inks Lake State Park costs a per-vehicle fee that varies by season. Camping costs depend on site type and season. Boat rentals are charged hourly or daily. A Texas fishing license costs between $16 and $32 depending on whether you buy a one-day or annual license. Check the park website for current fees.