FISHING AMISTAD RESERVOIR
Cast a Line
The clear blue water of Amistad Reservoir provides excellent fishing. Black Bass, stripers, channel and yellow catfish attract many anglers to Amistad NRA.
License Requirements
Texas fishing license requirements apply when fishing on the US side of Amistad Reservoir. When in Mexican waters, you must adhere to Mexican fishing regulations, which differ considerably from in terms of size and catch limits. The border with Mexico is indicated by numbered buoys running along the main channel of the Rio Grande.
Mexican Permits
For current Mexico fishing license information, go to www.conapescasandiego.org or call (619) 233-4324.
Information on Mexican fishing licenses can also be obtained at:
Amistad Marine (Ranger boat dealer on Hwy 90 West across from Spur 454), (830) 775-0878, or
Fisherman's Headquarters (Gas station at the intersection of Hwys 90 & 277 N) (830) 774-5670.
Bank Fishing
You can fish from shore anywhere outside of harbors and designated swim areas. Fishing is prohibited in these areas because hooks and fishing line can result in injury or drowning. Courtesy fishing docks are located at Blackbrush Point, Rough Canyon, 277 South, and Box Canyon.
What To Fish For
Some of the "favorite" catches at Lake Amistad are Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Striped Bass, Channel Catfish, and Black Crappie.
Fish Checklist » MS Word Adobe PDF
Fish Cleaning Stations
When fishing at Amistad, please do not put fish remains into the lake. Since the remains do not decompose easily in cold fresh water, the lake can become polluted. For your convenience, fish cleaning stations are located at Diablo East, Rough Canyon and the Pecos River.
Tournaments
Many Fishing Clubs hold tournaments on Lake Amistad (see tournament policy). If your club would like to have a tournament you may phone, write or email National Park Headquarters to register. Call (830) 774-7492 or email us. Please register at least 2 weeks in advance to allow for paperwork to be processed.
Launch Ramps
The main launch ramps are located at Diablo East, Rough Canyon, Box Canyon, and Air Force Marina. Ramps are also available at Blackbrush Point, 277 North, Spur 406, Spur 454 and the Pecos River. In severe lake conditions, check the status of boat ramp availability.
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Marinas
Boat and slip rentals, fuel, bait, ice, snacks, and beverages are available at Lake Amistad Resort and Marina and Rough Canyon Marina run by Forever Resorts concessionaire of Phoenix, AZ, and Southwinds (USAF) Marina.
Lake Amistad Resort and Marina (830) 774-4157
Rough Canyon Marina (830) 775-3985
Southwinds Marina (USAF) (830) 775-7800
Fishing Guides
All guides must be registered with the NPS in order to operate a business within the Amistad National Recreation Area.
All may also be available as tour guides.
