Keith Lake is a small reservoir in the Texas Panhandle with reliable catfish and occasional bass
Keith Lake sits in Hutchinson County near the town of Borger, about 40 miles northeast of Amarillo. The lake covers roughly 100 acres and holds channel catfish as the primary species, with some flathead catfish and largemouth bass present in smaller numbers. The water is relatively shallow and turbid, which suits catfish more than bass — most anglers who fish here come for catfish, especially in spring and fall when the bite is most consistent.
The lake is publicly accessible and managed by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. There is a boat ramp on the south side, and the surrounding area has limited development, which keeps the lake quieter than reservoirs closer to Amarillo. Access is straightforward, but the lake itself is not heavily promoted, so you will encounter fewer anglers than at more famous Panhandle destinations.
Key Takeaways
- Keith Lake holds channel catfish year-round, with the strongest bite in spring (March through May) and fall (September through November).
- A Texas fishing license is required for anyone 17 and older; you can purchase one online through the TPWD website or at local retailers.
- The boat ramp is located on the south shore and is free to use; the lake has no entrance fee.
- Catfish respond best to chicken liver, cut bait, and prepared stink baits; bring a rod rated for 15- to 20-pound line and a headlamp if you plan to fish at night.
When to fish Keith Lake for the best results
Spring (March through May) is the most productive season. Water temperatures climb into the 60s and 70s, and catfish move into shallower areas to feed before spawning. Nights and early mornings are most reliable, but you can catch fish throughout the day if you use the right bait. Channel catfish in the 2- to 5-pound range are common; larger flatheads occasionally show up, especially after dark.
Fall (September through November) is the second-best window. As water cools from summer heat, catfish become more active and feed aggressively. October is often the peak month. Winter fishing is possible but slower — catfish bite, but you will need patience and may spend long stretches without action. Summer can be productive at night when the water cools, but daytime fishing is difficult because catfish retreat to deeper, cooler zones.
What you need to bring and how to fish
Rods and reels: A medium-heavy spinning rod or baitcasting setup rated for 15- to 20-pound line works well for catfish. You do not need expensive equipment — catfish are not line-shy. Bring at least two rods if you plan to fish multiple spots simultaneously, which is legal in Texas.
Bait: Chicken liver is the standard choice and is available at most bait shops in Borger or Amarillo. Cut shad, mullet, or skipjack also work. Prepared stink baits (dip baits or dough balls) attract catfish quickly and are convenient if you do not want to handle fresh bait. Bring more bait than you think you will need — catfish bite steadily once they find your spot.
Tackle: Use a simple three-way rig or a slip-sinker rig. A 3/0 to 5/0 circle hook is standard for channel catfish. Circle hooks often hook themselves as the fish swims away, reducing the need for aggressive setting. Bring extra hooks, sinkers, and swivels — you will snag the bottom occasionally in shallow water.
Other gear: A headlamp or flashlight is essential if you fish after dark. Bring a net or a stringer to land and hold fish. Sunscreen, bug spray, and water are important — the Panhandle sun is intense, and mosquitoes can be heavy near the water in summer. A cooler with ice keeps your catch fresh.
Regulations and licensing
Anyone 17 years old or older must have a valid Texas fishing license. You can purchase one online through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website, by phone, or at retailers like Walmart, Academy Sports, or local bait shops. A one-day license costs less than a year-long license if you plan only a single trip. Licenses are inexpensive and support habitat management across the state.
Catfish have no daily bag limit in Texas, and there is no minimum size requirement. You can keep as many as you catch. Bass have a 14-inch minimum length and a daily limit of five fish. Check the current TPWD fishing guide before you go — regulations can change, and it is your responsibility to know the rules in effect on your fishing date.
How to reach Keith Lake and where to stay
From Amarillo, take I-27 north toward Dumas, then head east on US-60 toward Borger. Keith Lake is roughly 40 miles from downtown Amarillo and takes about 50 minutes to an hour to reach by car. Once in Borger, follow local signs or use GPS to navigate to the boat ramp on the south shore. The road to the ramp is paved and well-maintained.
Borger has a few motels and a small downtown area with gas stations and restaurants. Amarillo, 40 miles south, has more lodging options and larger grocery stores if you want to stock up on supplies before the drive north. There are no facilities directly at the lake — no restrooms, no concessions — so plan accordingly. Bring water, snacks, and any supplies you will need for the day.
What makes Keith Lake different from other Panhandle lakes
Keith Lake is smaller and quieter than Meredith Lake or Palo Duro Reservoir, the two largest reservoirs in the Panhandle. It attracts fewer tournament anglers and recreational boaters, which means less noise and more solitude. The trade-off is that you will find fewer bass and less variety in species — this is a catfish lake, and if catfish are not your target, you may want to consider a larger reservoir.
The shallow, turbid water is ideal for catfish but less appealing for sight-fishing bass or for anglers who prefer clear-water techniques. If you are new to catfishing or want a relaxed outing without crowds, Keith Lake is a solid choice. If you are looking for trophy bass or a wide range of species, the larger Panhandle lakes offer more options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a boat to fish Keith Lake?
No. The boat ramp is available, but you can fish from the shore in many spots around the lake. Catfish are bottom feeders and do not require you to reach deep water — casting from the bank is often effective, especially at night.
What is the best time of day to fish for catfish here?
Dusk through dawn is most productive, especially in spring and fall. Catfish are more active in low light. That said, they will bite during the day if you use strong-smelling bait and fish the deeper areas. Many anglers fish overnight and sleep during the day.
Can I keep the catfish I catch?
Yes. There is no bag limit on catfish in Texas. Channel catfish in the 2- to 5-pound range are good eating and are commonly kept. Larger flatheads are also edible but tougher to clean. Check local fish consumption advisories before eating fish from any Texas lake.
Is there cell service at Keith Lake?
Cell service is spotty in this part of the Panhandle. Do not rely on your phone for navigation or emergencies. Download offline maps before you go, and let someone know where you are fishing and when you expect to return.
What should I do if I hook a large flathead catfish?
Flatheads are aggressive and powerful. Use heavy line (20-pound or higher), keep your rod tip up, and do not horse the fish — let your drag do the work. Flatheads have sharp teeth and spines, so use a net and handle them carefully. If you want to release it, keep your hands away from the mouth and use pliers to remove the hook.