What You'll Find at Mike Lewis Park

Mike Lewis Park sits on the Colorado River near La Grange, Texas, about 90 miles east of Austin. The park is a public access point managed by the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), and it offers bank fishing and boat launch facilities for anglers targeting catfish, bass, and sunfish. The Colorado River here is slower and deeper than upstream sections, creating habitat that holds fish year-round.

The park has a boat ramp, parking area, and picnic facilities. Bank fishing is possible along designated areas, though much of the immediate shoreline is shallow and weedy — the deeper channel runs closer to the far bank. If you're planning to fish here, bring a boat or be prepared to wade, as the best structure lies beyond easy casting distance from shore.

Access is free, but you'll need a valid Texas fishing license. The park itself doesn't charge an entrance fee, and there are no day-use permits required. Parking is available in a gravel lot near the boat ramp.

Key Takeaways

  • Mike Lewis Park is a free public access point on the Colorado River near La Grange with a boat ramp and bank fishing areas.
  • Catfish are the most reliable target year-round; bass and sunfish are also present but less consistent depending on season.
  • A Texas fishing license is required for anyone 17 and older, and you can purchase one online or at any sporting goods retailer.
  • The park has no day-use fee, but facilities are basic — bring your own water and supplies, as there are no concessions on-site.
  • Summer heat and low water levels can make fishing difficult; spring and fall typically offer better conditions and fewer crowds.

Species and Seasonal Patterns

Catfish are the most abundant species at Mike Lewis Park and bite year-round. Channel catfish and flatheads both inhabit this section of the Colorado River. Channel cats respond well to cut bait, chicken liver, and stink baits fished on the bottom near deeper holes. Flatheads are more active at night and prefer live baitfish — shad or bluegill work well. Spring through fall is peak season, but winter fishing is possible if you're willing to fish slower and deeper.

Largemouth bass are present but less predictable than catfish. They concentrate around submerged timber, fallen trees, and deeper ledges. Early morning and late evening are your best windows, especially in summer. Fall and spring produce more consistent action than summer, when bass move deeper and become less aggressive.

Sunfish — bluegill, redear, and longear — are abundant in shallow areas and along the banks. They're easiest to catch in spring when they move into shallower water to spawn. A simple rod with small jigs or live crickets will produce steady action if you're fishing with children or looking for a relaxing day.

When to Fish Mike Lewis Park

Spring (March through May) is the most productive season overall. Water temperatures are warming, catfish are feeding heavily before summer heat sets in, and bass are active around spawning areas. Crowds are moderate, and weather is generally pleasant for a full day on the water.

Summer (June through August) brings heat and lower water levels. The Colorado River can drop significantly during drought years, which concentrates fish in deeper holes but also makes navigation trickier if you're launching a boat. Early morning and late evening fishing is more comfortable than midday, and catfish bite better after dark. Expect more crowds on weekends.

Fall (September through November) offers a second peak. Water temperatures drop, bass become more active, and catfish feed aggressively before winter. Conditions are comfortable for long days, and the park is less crowded than summer weekends.

Winter (December through February) is slowest. Catfish still bite, but you'll need patience and deeper presentations. Bank fishing is difficult because fish move to the deepest holes, which are often far from shore. A boat is nearly essential if you want consistent winter action.

Access and Facilities

Mike Lewis Park is located on Texas Highway 71, about 8 miles west of La Grange. From Austin, take I-10 east toward Houston, then exit onto Highway 71 heading toward La Grange. The park entrance is marked, and parking is free. GPS coordinates are approximately 30.7575° N, 96.8750° W if you're using a navigation app.

The boat ramp is concrete and well-maintained, suitable for trailers up to about 20 feet. There is no fuel dock or bait shop at the park, so bring your own supplies. The nearest town with supplies is La Grange, about 8 miles away, where you'll find bait shops, gas stations, and restaurants.

Facilities are basic: parking, a boat ramp, picnic tables, and trash receptacles. There are no restrooms, no water, and no shade structures beyond what trees naturally provide. Bring sunscreen, water, and any supplies you'll need for the day. The park is open during daylight hours; there is no overnight camping allowed.

Texas Fishing License Requirements

Anyone 17 years old or older must have a valid Texas fishing license to fish in public waters, including the Colorado River at Mike Lewis Park. Licenses are issued by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) and can be purchased online at tpwd.texas.gov, by phone, or at any sporting goods retailer that sells hunting and fishing licenses.

A one-year all-water license covers freshwater and saltwater fishing statewide. Short-term options include 5-day and 14-day licenses if you're visiting from out of state. Licenses are not refundable once purchased. Children under 17 do not need a license but must follow all other fishing regulations, including bag limits and size restrictions.

You are not required to carry your license on the water, but it's wise to have it with you in case a game warden checks. Digital licenses can be displayed on your phone if you purchase online.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Bring a cooler with ice, sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water — there are no facilities to refill on-site. A hat and polarized sunglasses will reduce glare and help you spot fish in shallow water. If you're bank fishing, wear wading shoes with good grip, as the bottom can be slippery and uneven.

For catfish, pack cut bait (shad, mullet, or chicken), chicken liver, or commercial stink baits. Bring a sturdy rod rated for catfish — medium-heavy power is ideal — and heavy monofilament or braided line. A headlamp or flashlight is essential if you plan to fish after dark, when catfish bite best.

For bass, bring topwater lures, crankbaits, and soft plastics in natural colors. A medium-power rod with 10- to 15-pound monofilament or braided line works well. If you're fishing from shore, waders will extend your reach and keep you dry.

Check the weather forecast before you go. Summer thunderstorms can develop quickly, and the park offers no shelter. If lightning threatens, leave the water immediately.

Regulations and Catch Limits

Texas has specific bag limits and size restrictions for fish taken from public waters. For catfish, there is no minimum size, and the daily bag limit is 25 fish per person. For largemouth bass, the minimum size is 14 inches, and the daily limit is five fish. For sunfish species, there is no minimum size, and the daily limit is 25 fish per person.

These regulations change periodically, so check the current Texas Parks and Wildlife Department regulations before you fish. You can find the most up-to-date information at tpwd.texas.gov or by calling the TPWD office in La Grange.

All fish must be kept in your possession while on the water — you cannot leave them unattended or transfer them to another person. If you're keeping fish for a meal, bring a cooler with ice to keep them fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish at night at Mike Lewis Park?

Yes, night fishing is allowed and is often productive for catfish. Bring a headlamp or flashlight, and be aware that the park has no lighting. Stay aware of your surroundings and fish with a partner if possible. Flathead catfish are most active after dark.

Do I need a boat to fish here, or can I fish from shore?

Bank fishing is possible, but the best structure and deeper water lie beyond easy casting distance from shore. A boat gives you access to the main channel and deeper holes where catfish concentrate. If you don't have a boat, focus on catfish with heavy sinkers and long casts, or fish for sunfish in shallow areas near the bank.

What's the water level like, and does it change much?

The Colorado River at Mike Lewis Park is controlled by LCRA dams upstream, so water levels fluctuate based on dam releases and seasonal rainfall. During drought years, levels can drop significantly, concentrating fish but also making boat navigation trickier. Call the LCRA or check their website for current water conditions before launching a boat.

Is there a bait shop at the park?

No. The nearest bait and tackle shops are in La Grange, about 8 miles away. Bring your own bait and supplies, or plan to stop in town before heading to the park. Bait shops can also provide current fishing reports and local advice.

Can I bring my family and have a picnic while fishing?

Yes. The park has picnic tables and is a family-friendly location. Children under 17 do not need a fishing license but must follow all bag and size limits if they keep fish. Bring your own food and drinks, as there are no concessions on-site.