Cap’N Ron’s Guide to the Best Texas Lakes for Largemouth Bass

I’m Ronnie “Cap’N Ron” Kelley—born and bred in East Texas with over 30 years experience guiding fishermen on Lake Fork, one of the world’s most renowned bass lakes. I built my life and reputation here on honesty, integrity, and teaching anglers how to fish smarter—not harder.

I’m deeply committed to the Lake Fork community and conservation efforts. My goal isn’t just to take people out fishing—it’s to educate, inspire respect for the natural world, and support sustainable fishing practices like catch‑and‑release and slot‑limit observance

Cap’N Ron’s Guide to the Best Texas Lakes for Largemouth Bass

Why Lake Fork Is Still #1 for Trophy Largemouth Bass

  • Proven history of record catches: The lake boasts 15 of the top 20 Texas state record largemouth bass ever caught, making it a global trophy bass destination

  • Engineered for excellence: Between 1979–1987, over 730,000 Florida-strain largemouth bass were stocked, and 80% of the standing timber was left intact to create home for big fish

  • Balanced limits: A slot limit protects bass between 16″–24″, and anglers may only keep five per day (one over 24″), helping preserve trophy fish populations

When you book a trip with me, you’re fishing on a lake designed for monster bass—and you’re learning how to find them.

Other Top Texas Bass Lakes Worth Targeting

While Lake Fork is state‑of‑the‑art, I often guide clients to other stellar East Texas lakes depending on season and goals:

Lake Sam Rayburn

A haul of crappie and excellent bass habitat, thanks to big creek arms, flooded timber, and reliable forage blooms. Perfect for both mid‑season and fall bass pushes.

Lake Palestine

My experience spans here too—especially when Fork is blown out. Clean water and good habitat for schooling bass make it a solid backup.

Toledo Bend Reservoir

Bordering Texas and Louisiana, it offers deep coves, stumps, and grass flats full of bass up to 10 lbs—fantastic in summer and early fall.

Lake Texoma

While mainly known for striper action, Texoma has pockets with large bass—especially near embayments with submerged structure and baitfish presence.

In Summary: Texas Bass Lakes Worth Exploring

If you’re ready to land the bass of a lifetime, hit me up. Whether you’re new to the sport or chasing tournament‑level fish, I’ll help you target the right lake at the right time—using honest, expert guidance with an emphasis on conservation and lifelong learning.

Tight lines from Cap’N Ron—Lake Fork’s trusted trophy bass guide.