What Stubblefield Lake Offers

Stubblefield Lake is a 45-acre impoundment in San Saba County, roughly 15 miles south of the town of San Saba in central Texas. The lake sits on private land managed as a public fishing area, making it accessible to anglers without a special permit beyond your standard Texas fishing license. The water is relatively shallow and weedy, which creates good habitat for largemouth bass, catfish, and bluegill — the three species most anglers target here.

The lake's appeal lies in its size and proximity to San Saba. It is small enough that you can cover most productive water in a half day, but large enough to hold fish year-round. The shoreline is mostly wooded, with several coves and a dam on the south end. Water clarity varies with season and recent rainfall; in dry periods the lake can turn stained or murky, which actually improves bass fishing during midday hours.

Access is limited to a single public boat ramp on the north shore, managed by San Saba County. There is a small parking area and a basic concrete ramp suitable for jon boats, kayaks, and small recreational boats. Larger bass boats can launch here, but the ramp is narrow and can get congested on weekends during spring and fall.

Key Takeaways

  • Stubblefield Lake holds largemouth bass, catfish, and bluegill in 45 acres of shallow, weedy water accessible by a single public boat ramp.
  • You need only a valid Texas fishing license; no special permit or day-use fee is required to fish here.
  • Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are the most reliable seasons for bass; summer catfishing is productive at night.
  • The lake is best suited to anglers with small boats, kayaks, or those willing to wade and fish from shore.
  • Bring insect repellent and check water conditions before you go, as the lake can become shallow or weedy enough to slow boat traffic.

Seasons and What Fish Are Biting

Largemouth bass fishing peaks in spring, from late February through May, when water temperatures climb into the 60s and 70s. Bass move shallow to spawn and feed aggressively in the coves and around submerged timber. Topwater lures and soft plastics work well during early morning and late afternoon; midday, switch to deeper presentations or fish the shadiest cover you can find.

Summer (June through August) is slower for bass but excellent for catfish. Fish the deeper holes near the dam at night with live bait — shad, bluegill, or chicken liver. Catfish bite steadily from dusk through dawn when water temperatures exceed 80 degrees. Bluegill are available year-round in shallow weedy areas and around dock pilings; they bite best in spring and early summer.

Fall (September through November) brings a second strong bite for bass as water cools and fish move back to shallower feeding zones. October is often the most consistent month. Winter (December through February) is slow; bass are deep and less active, though patient anglers can still catch them near the dam in deeper water using slow presentations.

How to Access and Launch

The public boat ramp is located on the north shore of Stubblefield Lake, accessible via County Road 101 from San Saba. From downtown San Saba, head south on US 190 for about 8 miles, then turn east on County Road 101 and follow signs to the lake. The drive takes roughly 20 minutes from town.

The ramp is a single-lane concrete structure with a small gravel parking area. There is no fee to launch, but there are no facilities — no restrooms, no water, no shade structures. Arrive early on weekends, especially in spring, as the lot fills quickly and there is no overflow parking. The ramp is maintained by San Saba County Parks; if you encounter damage or debris, contact the county parks department to report it.

Anglers without a boat can fish from the shoreline around the parking area and along the dam. Wading is possible in shallow areas, though the bottom is soft and weedy. Kayaks and canoes are well-suited to this lake and can reach areas larger boats cannot access. If you plan to wade or kayak, wear water shoes and watch for submerged logs and vegetation.

Regulations and Licensing

Texas fishing at Stubblefield Lake requires a valid Texas Fishing License, available through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). You can purchase a license online at the TPWD website, by phone, or at most sporting goods stores and bait shops in San Saba. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license if you plan only a single trip.

Bass are subject to a 14-inch minimum length limit and a daily bag limit of five fish. Catfish have no minimum size but a 25-fish daily limit. Bluegill and other sunfish have no size limit and a 25-fish daily limit. These regulations apply statewide and are enforced by TPWD game wardens. Check the current TPWD fishing guide before you go, as regulations can change.

The lake itself is open to public fishing during daylight hours. There is no posted closing time, but it is wise to be off the water before dark unless you are specifically night fishing for catfish. Respect private property boundaries; the land surrounding the lake is private, and trespassing is not permitted.

What Gear and Bait to Bring

For bass, a medium-power spinning or baitcasting rod with 10- to 15-pound line is standard. Bring a mix of topwater lures, soft plastics (4- to 6-inch worms and crawfish), and crankbaits. The weedy cover means you will lose lures; bring extras. A shallow-running crankbait works well in the coves, and a weedless soft plastic is essential for fishing thick vegetation.

For catfish, a medium-heavy rod with 20- to 30-pound line and a basic slip sinker rig is all you need. Bring live bait — shad or bluegill — or prepared stink baits. A headlamp or flashlight is essential for night fishing. For bluegill, a light spinning rod with 6- to 8-pound line and small jigs or live crickets will work.

Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. The lake sits in open country with little shade, and mosquitoes can be heavy in summer and fall. A small cooler, a net, and a tackle box round out the basics. If you are launching a boat, check your fuel before you leave town — there is no fuel available at the lake.

When to Fish and What to Expect

Spring and fall offer the most consistent fishing and the most comfortable weather. March through May and September through November are ideal. Water temperatures are mild, fish are active, and you are less likely to encounter extreme heat or cold. Weekdays are quieter than weekends; if you prefer solitude, plan your trip for a Tuesday or Wednesday.

Early morning (sunrise to mid-morning) and late afternoon (two hours before sunset) are the most productive times for bass. Midday fishing is slower but possible if you fish deep structure or heavy shade. Catfish bite best at night, from dusk through dawn. Bluegill bite throughout the day but are most active in early morning and late afternoon.

The lake can be crowded during spring weekends, especially around Easter and opening day of bass season. If you want a quieter experience, plan for late spring (May) or early fall (September). Summer weekdays are often empty, though the heat and mosquitoes make them less pleasant. Winter is the slowest season overall, with few anglers and slow fish activity.

Nearby Services and Lodging

San Saba, 15 miles north, has gas stations, restaurants, and a few small motels. The town is not a major tourist destination, so lodging options are limited. The closest larger town is Llano, about 25 miles east, which has more restaurants and a few chain hotels. Both towns have bait and tackle shops where you can buy live bait, lures, and last-minute supplies.

There is no camping at Stubblefield Lake itself. The nearest campground is Pecan Grove Park in San Saba, a small county park with a few RV hookups and tent sites. For a wider range of camping options, consider Llano or Burnet, both within 30 to 40 minutes of the lake. These towns are on the way to other central Texas fishing destinations like Lake Buchanan and Lake Inks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Stubblefield Lake?

No. You can fish from shore around the parking area and along the dam. Wading is possible in shallow areas, and kayaks work well here. A boat lets you reach more water and deeper structure, but it is not required.

What is the best time of year to catch bass here?

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are most reliable. October is often the most consistent month. Summer is slower for bass but good for catfish at night.

Are there restrooms or facilities at the lake?

No. The boat ramp area has a parking lot but no restrooms, water, or shade structures. Bring everything you need, including water and sunscreen.

Can I fish at night?

Yes, night fishing for catfish is productive and popular. Bring a headlamp or flashlight. Bass fishing at night is less common here but possible if you know the structure.

How far is Stubblefield Lake from San Saba?

About 15 miles south. The drive from downtown San Saba takes roughly 20 minutes via US 190 and County Road 101.