Frio River Fishing Guide

Looking to fish in the Frio River? It's the perfect place! Home to many fish species, the Frio River is a popular spot for both visitors and locals for fishing all year round. Learn about the best time of the year to fish, what you can catch, and discover more information about fishing licenses, the annual trout release, and more.

What is the Best Time of Year to Fish?

Spring and fall are usually the best time of year to go fishing on the Frio River. However, winter offers a good season for trout fishing. It's helpful to check out Frio River water levels before going!

Spring (March to May): Spring is a great time since the water levels are usually higher, which creates good fishing conditions. As the weather warms up, fish like largemouth bass, sunfish, and catfish become more active.

Fall (September to November):Fall is another excellent season for fishing, as the temperatures cool down, and fish are more likely to be active in the morning and evening hours. Bass and perch are usually what you will try to catch during the fall months.

Winter (December to February): Winter is the best time to catch trout on the Frio River. The cooler water temperatures create a more suitable environment for trout. Every year, the Texas Parks and Wildlife (TPWD) stocks the Frio River with rainbow trout. The trout are typically stocked in late December or early January, and TPWD releases the trout stocking dates and locations each year.

Summer (June to August): You can still catch fish in the summer season, however, due to lower water temperatures it may be a little more challenging. Fish during the early morning or evening when the fish are more active. Popular fish in the summer include largemouth bass, catfish, and sunfish.

Can You Fly Fish in the Frio River?

Yes, you can fly fish in the Frio River, and it’s a popular method for targeting various species, particularly bass, sunfish (perch), and trout. Fly fishing and using lures that mimic river insects or small baitfish can work well. The Frio River’s clear waters and scenic surroundings make it a great spot for fly fishing!

What are the Best Spots for Fly Fishing?

You will have better luck fly fishing works in the calmer and shallow water. Areas near Garner State Park and other public accesses along the river provide great conditions!

fly fishing on the Frio River

What is the Best Bait for the Frio River?

Largemouth Bass:

Live Bait: Minnows and crawfish are good for attracting bass. Bass tend to go for natural movement in the water.
Artificial Lures: Soft plastic worms, spinnerbaits, and crankbaits also work well. You can also use topwater lures like poppers early in the morning or late in the evening when bass are closer to the surface of the water.
Fly Fishing Bait: Woolly buggers and streamers are good for fly fishing.

Catfish:

Live or Cut Bait: Nightcrawlers, shrimp, chicken livers, and stink bait are highly effective for catfish, especially in deep pools or slow-moving parts of the river.

Sunfish:

Live Bait: Worms (nightcrawlers, red wigglers) and crickets are top choices. Sunfish are plentiful in the Frio River and readily bite on live bait.
Artificial Lures: Small jigs, tiny spinners, and soft plastic grubs mimic their natural prey. Fly fishing with small poppers or nymphs also works well for sunfish.

Trout

Live Bait: Corn, worms, and salmon eggs are popular for rainbow trout, especially in the winter months.
Artificial Lures: PowerBait, small spinners, and spoons work well for trout. Fly anglers also use nymphs, dry flies, or small streamers.

Frio River Fishing License Information

Before you go fishing in the Frio River, you need to have a valid Texas fishing license. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) requires licenses for most anglers. However, you don't need a fishing license if you are under the age of 17 years old or if you are fishing the one of the state park. For more information on how to obtain a fishing license, visit the TPWD regulations.

For more information about the Frio River and Concan, Texas area, be sure to check out other useful information:

If you're looking for places to stay in Concan, explore all of our Frio River vacation rentals!

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Outdoor Activities