Fishing

Cast a line and reel in your next big catch in Dallas.

Dreaming of dropping a line into calm waters or casting toward the city skyline? Dallas is full of fishing spots where you can spend a peaceful morning or an exciting afternoon fishing. From urban lakes to winding riverbanks, you’ll find plenty of places to test your luck and your skills.

Best Fishing Spots in Dallas

You don’t have to travel far to cast a line in Dallas. Here are the top spots for fishing within city limits:

Bachman Lake - Spanning 205 acres in northwest Dallas, this scenic lake features a hiking and biking trail, picnic areas, an accessible playground, Bachman Recreation Center and an outdoor family aquatic center. Anglers can catch largemouth bass, channel and blue catfish, white crappie, and sunfish.
Lake Cliff Park - Blending nature and neighborhood charm, this community park has walking trails, a playground, picnic tables, a pavilion, and restrooms. Try your luck with largemouth bass and sunfish while enjoying the shoreline.
White Rock Lake - Just five miles northeast of downtown, this urban lake has kayak rentals, piers, and boat ramps. Cast for channel catfish, largemouth bass, and white crappie, or spend the day exploring picnic spots, more than nine miles of trails, and the White Rock Lake Museum.
William Blair Jr. Park - Perfect for a relaxing afternoon, the park offers fishing on the pier or along the banks of the lake. With picnic tables, playgrounds, sculptures, and trails, it’s a peaceful setting for catching smallmouth buffalo, carp, and sunfish.
Trinity River at Dallas Floodway - This popular riverbank destination rewards exploration, with different stretches of water providing anglers the opportunity to catch different freshwater species. Anglers often reel in largemouth bass, black bullhead, and alligator gar.

You’ll also find many more community lakes and river fishing spots throughout the city. Each one offers its own scenery, amenities, and potential for your next great catch.

Fishing Licenses & Packages

Both residents and visitors 17 years of age and older must obtain a fishing license to fish public waters in the state of Texas. Fishing licenses can be purchased online, through the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department. For more information, including license exemptions, packages, and rates, visit the Fishing Licenses and Packages page.

Get Your Fishing License

Fishing Guides & Rentals

Whether you’re planning your own trip with local gear rentals or booking an outing with a professional guide, Dallas has plenty of ways to get you on the water:

Garzilla Guide Service - Specializes in alligator gar fishing trips along the Trinity River, offering an exciting challenge for experienced anglers.
Mountain Creek Public Library - As part of the Texas Parks & Wildlife Tackle Loaner Program, you can borrow rods, reels, and tackle at this library.
Tailwaters Fly Fishing - Offers local guided trips, from half-day to full-day. All necessary gear is included, though you’re welcome to bring your own.

Quer sair ao ar livre durante a sua próxima visita a Dallas? Use estes eventos, actividades e acontecimentos divertidos para criar a sua próxima aventura ao ar livre!