San Marcos River Retreat
Leased Fishing Access - San Marcos River
Located on the north bank of the San Marcos River at San Marcos, in Caldwell County.
See map.
Lease period: September 15, 2015 to August 31, 2024
Website
Phone: (512) 392-6171
Lat/Long:
29.85725, -97.88874
Check the USGS stream gage at Martindale for current and historical flow conditions.
Area Description
Access has approximately 1300 feet along the San Marcos River. This area is alcohol-free and only open for fishing or launching canoes and/or kayaks. Bank wading and canoe put-ins are available, along with on-site restrooms and showers.
Special Conditions on Public Use
Access is open from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset for angling from the banks and launching non-motorized boats, canoes, kayaks, or other floatable devices for the purpose of fishing. Vehicle and trailer parking by anglers shall be in designated areas only. Reservations must be made with San Marcos River Retreat before visiting. A user fee of $5.00 per person for bank fishing or $3 per person for launching or taking out non-motorized watercraft will be charged.
Directions
From Austin:
Head South on I-35 toward San Marcos. Take exit 205 toward Luling. Take TX 80 South to Old Bastrop Rd, and turn right. Take a left onto Martindale Rd and a right onto Pecan Park Dr.
From San Antonio:
Head North on I-35 toward San Marcos. Take exit 205 toward Luling. Take TX 80 South to Old Bastrop Rd, and turn right. Take a left onto Martindale Rd and a right onto Pecan Park Dr.
Angling Opportunities
Abundant angling opportunities are found in this segment of the San Marcos River for Largemouth Bass, Guadalupe Bass, and Channel Catfish. Fishing for black basses is best when turbidity in the river is low, as these species feed primarily by sight. Anglers should target faster riffle areas for Guadalupe Bass, and downed trees and aquatic vegetation in pool habitat for Largemouth Bass.
Anglers are urged to practice catch-and-release of sportfish in this segment of the San Marcos River, especially for Largemouth and Guadalupe Bass.
Fishing Regulations
All species are currently managed under statewide regulations.