If you’re looking for a relaxing day out with friends or the whole family, escape to Cleburne, Texas for relaxation and a quiet transition from the hustle and bustle of the ‘metro life.’ Lake Pat Cleburne has long been a favorite location for fisherman of all ages. From shore fishing and boat fishing to canoeing, kayaking or birdwatching, Cleburne has it all. Here’s everything you need to know about fishing in Cleburne, TX.
Lake Pat Cleburne is open year-round and supplies a steady stream of fish. There are four boat ramps located around the lake for easy access. For many, the best time to go fishing is whenever you can. For the best fishing, the warmer the weather, the better your chances of catching a ‘big’ one. Early morning and late evening are prime times during summer and fall.
No fishing license is required within Cleburne State Park. However, fishing is restricted to pole and line. Fish species that are common in these waters include largemouth bass, channel catfish, crappie and sunfish. Some fish have regulations that you should be aware of:
Black Bass: Minimum length limit for largemouth bass is 18 inches. For smallmouth bass, minimum length is 14 inches. No length minimum for spotted, Guadalupe or Alabama bass. Daily limit for all black bass is 5 in any combination.
White, Striped and Yellow Bass: Minimum length limit for striped and hybrid bass is 18 inches with a daily limit of 5 in any combination. White bass has a minimum length of 10 inches and a daily limit of 25. No limits for yellow bass.
Catfish: Minimum length limit for flathead catfish is 18 inches with a daily limit of 5. Channel and blue catfish have a daily limit of 5, no minimum length.
Crappie: White and black crappie have a minimum length limit of 10 inches with a daily limit of 25 in any combination.
Lake Pat Cleburne may not be known as a trophy producer but catching the occasional five-pounder keeps anglers coming back.
Camping is not allowed at Lake Cleburne, but Cleburne State Park, just five miles west, has plenty of campsites. Sites come equipped with water and power, picnic tables and fire pits. Restrooms with showers are located nearby. The Park is pet-friendly, so bring your furry friend along to join in on the fun. Make your reservations ahead of time by contacting the state park online or by phone at 512-389-8900.
Cedar Lake, located within Cleburne State Park is the perfect watering hole to catch freshwater favorites, kayak, or swim in the no-wake lake. No-wake boats are allowed. Kayaks and paddle boards are available to rent. The park general store sells basic staples like ice, firewood, charcoal and of course, souvenirs.
Nature lovers can explore 13 miles of trails while keeping an eye out for an array of wildlife. Birds to look out for include the Red-bellied Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Yellow-headed Blackbird, Painted Bunting, Ladder-backed Woodpecker, Great Blue Heron, Double-crested Cormorant, even the Great Horned Owl and many more.
For more birdwatching, check out the nearby Chisholm Trail Birdwatching deck — 90 feet, and mostly covered, you can see the different duck species, American White Pelican and Mississippi Kite to name a few. During the summer months, kayak and tube rentals are available, or saddle up for a ride on horseback at the Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum.
Start planning your trip to cast a line, play in the water, or simply soak in the sights and sounds that Cleburne has to offer.