Falcon Lake, a.k.a. Falcon International Reservoir, is a massive lake that is well-known for its equally massive bass and catfish. Located at Falcon State Park on the southern border of central Texas, the lake has over 400 miles of shoreline and 83,800 acres of water, about half of which is on the United States’ side of the border. Most anglers target the lake’s largemouth bass, but it also offers strong populations of bluegill, catfish, crappie, gar, tilapia, and white bass.

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Falcon International Reservoir is relatively shallow with rock piles and standing timber forming most of the structure. It is known as one of the best spots for largemouth bass in Texas. For your best chance at catching largemouth, visit in fall, winter, and spring. Use Texas and Carolina, rigged worms, spinner baits or crankbaits, and fish along the points, flooded brush and offshore structures. If you do visit during the intense heat of summer, buzz baits and top-water baits, fished early and late, can be effective.

Catfish can be caught year-round with natural shad, sunfish, shrimp baits, and stink baits.

Regulations vary depending on whether you fish the Texas or Mexico side of the lake. If you fish in Mexican waters, a Mexico fishing license is required for everyone in the boat, but a Mexico boat permit is not required. Mexico licenses can be purchased at Falcon Lake Tackle (2195 S. Highway 83, (956) 765-4866).

Falcon International Reservoir boat ramps:

The following boat ramps provide access to Falcon International Reservoir.