Featuring 40+ bodies of water stocked with everything from catfish to carp, The Woodlands offers a variety of fantastic fishing spots. Most ponds are "catch and release" only, but there are locations where you can claim your prize. Whichever you prefer, here are a few top-tier highlights to start your day off right!

A young man (on the left of the frame) stands on the grassy shore of a fishing pond at Bear Branch Sports Fields. He is wearing a red t-shirt, black shorts, a black and tan ballcap, and he's holding a black and teal fishing pole. The water is dark and smooth. The trees on the far shore are various shades of bright green. The sky is cloudy but bright.

BEAR BRANCH SPORTS FIELDS

5205 Research Forest Dr. The Woodlands, TX 77381

True to its name, Bear Branch Sports Fields is the go-to spot for all things athletics. This 30-acre outdoor rec center features multiple fields for everything from football to cross-country running, an 18-hole disc golf course, and a fishing hole surrounded by lush trees and picturesque walking trails.

 

LAKESIDE PARK

5001 West Alden Bridge Dr. The Woodlands, TX 77382

Lakeside Park is located beside Bear Branch Reservoir, one of the largest bodies of water in The Woodlands. The marshy landscape creates the ideal environment for largemouth bass but can be tricky to navigate, so boats and kayaks are highly recommended.

Insider Tip: Extra parking can be found along Kuykendahl Road.

 

A thin tree limb with bright green, fern-like leaves stretches out over a bright blue pond at Rob Fleming Park.

A fountain bursts out of the pond at Rob Fleming Park. The photographer is standing on a thin brick staircase near the water's edge. The far shore features a mix of orange, brown, and bright green trees.

ROB FLEMING PARK

6055 Creekside Forest Dr. The Woodlands, TX 77389

Between sprawling grass fields, a large pond, and a covered pavilion perfect for birthdays and weddings, Rob Fleming Park is one of the most scenic spots to go fishing. Drop by in the fall to see the trees turn yellow and orange, then come back in the spring for bluebonnets and bright pink azaleas.

 

SOUTHSHORE PARK

3030 Woodlands Pkwy. The Woodlands, TX 77381

Wave to Rise of the Midgard Serpent as you drive down Woodlands Parkway. In addition to being one of the most recognizable spots in town, Southshore Park is also one of the best places to drop your line. The nearby dam attracts a variety of fish and other wildlife, so feel free to set up shop along the shore, the bridge, or the lower deck of the pavilion on Teacup Island.

Please Note: The only parking available is along the shoulder of Woodlands Parkway. Proceed with caution.

 

The camera focuses on the sidewalk leading to various blue-roofed pavilions at Northshore Park. Along the right is Lake Woodlands, the water deep blue under a bright blue sky and sporadic clouds.

The camera points northeast from the banks of Lake Woodlands at Northshore Park. Water fills the lower half of the frame. There are dozens of ducks and a few recreational boats on the water as well as a vehicular bridge crossing over it. In the background are various upscale apartment and office buildings.

NORTHSHORE PARK

2505 Lake Woodlands Dr. The Woodlands, TX 77381

Set along the scenic banks of Lake Woodlands, Northshore Park is a prime spot for local fishing enthusiasts. There is ample space to fish on the shore, on the docks, or in your own kayak! Don't have a kayak? Rent one from the Lakes Edge or Riva Row Boat House.

 

A young woman (on the right of the frame) stands on the shore of the stock pond at Creekwood Park. She is wearing a denim-blue shirt with sea turtles on the back as well as a denim bucket hat with white flowers embroidered around the front. She is holding a fishing pole made of wood and green plastic. The water is dark and gently rippling. In the background is a covered pavilion for picnics, bright green trees, and a pathway toward (in the distance) tennis courts.

CREEKWOOD PARK

3383 South Panther Creek Dr. The Woodlands, TX 77381

The stock pond at Creekwood Park provides a beautiful backdrop for fishing. The Woodlands Township Parks & Recreation Department even hosts a free, family-friendly fishing derby here every March. Past participants have been known to catch a few whoppers, reeling in catfish as large as 11.5 pounds!

 

FISHING & GAME RULES
  1. With few exceptions, a fishing license is required for all residents and non-residents who fish in the public waters of Texas. Private waters do not require a license.
  2. The only "catch and keep" locations within The Woodlands Township are at Lake Woodlands, Bear Branch Reservoir, and Lake Paloma.
  3. Fishing is NOT allowed along the upper / eastern stretch of The Woodlands Waterway between Riva Row Boat House and I-45. This is a protected area.
  4. Fishing IS allowed along the lower / western stretch of The Waterway from Riva Row to Lake Woodlands.