Go with graphite rods for most novice and occasional anglers and the bamboo for the experienced angler who appreciates a higher level of control and sensitivity.

A Mix of Techniques

Guadalupe bass can be caught all year around, but as the temperature drops, so does the water temperature. By the end of the summer, the Guadalupe Bass can already be found in the deeper pools of rivers and streams. If lakes and reservoirs are available, they will seek out water temperature ranges in the 60°Fs/16°C. The Guadalupe Bass prefers the water temperature between 50°F/10°C and 68°F/20°C. With the onset of summer, the bait fish retreat to lower depths as well so finding the Guadalupe Bass near the surface will be rare.

As fall arrives, continue to use summer fishing techniques. As the water temperature drops, the Guadalupe Bass will chase the baitfish back to the shallow depths and start feeding on insects again. As the weather changes again in the late fall, and water temperatures drop once again, the Guadalupe bass will head back to deeper water and will become more lethargic and eat less.

Temperature

As the water temperature reaches 50°F/10°C, they become sluggish. When the water temperature reaches 45°F/7°C, they become less aggressive and are more selective in their strikes.

Location

The location for Guadalupe Bass fishing does not change much through out the year. However, while they can be found in the San Antonio, Guadalupe, Colorado, Lampasas, Leon and Brazos rivers basins through out the year, they will seek out deeper waters in the heat which may see very few Guadalupe Bass in rivers and streams that are close to large bodies of water like the Amistad Reservoir and Lake Travis.

Fly Fishing

Fly fishing for the Guadalupe Bass is a lot of fun and perfect for autumn fishing in the various rivers and streams that make up its habitat. There are four different types of rod construction: bamboo, graphite and fibreglass. All are good and strong but fibreglass is heavier. Bamboo is highly recommended and considered the best by most fly anglers. However, these are expensive and not recommended for someone trying fly fishing for the first time.

We recommend the graphite rods for most novice and occasional anglers and the bamboo for the experienced angler who appreciates a higher level of control and sensitivity.

The key to getting the right combination of line, rod, reel and flies is to follow the following basic steps:

1) Don’t go for the cheapest package as you will not be happy with the results. Fly fishing is not cheap, if you can’t afford a good package, save until you can.

2) Don’t focus on a package deal if it has components that you don’t need.

3) Price things out differently and then ask for a discount. Price out your package at your local outlet as well as online. Often online stores will provide more assistance that you can read at your own pace.

4) Shop around online first to get an idea of what to pay. Any packages below US$200 should be avoided as they are best suited for kids to those just looking for a spare rod. The ideal price point for many new fly fishing anglers and those that plan to use the rod more than a few times a year is a price point between US$200 to US$300.

5) Leave enough money for your boots, waders, vest, flies and leaders.

We recommend a medium weight fly rod for most novice anglers.

Bait Casting

Not to be forgotten, to catch Guadalupe Bass in the fall, use small crayfish, minnows, golden shinners and gizzardshad for live bait. For lures, use plastic grubs, small crankbaits, pencil poppers and woolly buggers.