If you’re looking for the Best Bass Lakes in East Texas, you’re in luck. San Augustine, Texas, is located in the heart of some of the best fishing waters in the Lone Star State. Whether you’re after trophy largemouth bass or just want a relaxing day on the water, there are dozens of great lakes just a short drive away.
Today, we’re rounding up the best-reviewed bass fishing lakes within 60 miles of San Augustine—including some local favorites you might not have discovered yet! Grab your rod, pick up some live bait at Hardware on the Square (the best place around to buy fresh fishing worms!), and get ready to reel in a good time.
1. Center City Lake – Center, TX
Just about 20 miles west of San Augustine, Center City Lake is a hidden gem for bass anglers. Covering around 116 acres, this smaller lake is loaded with largemouth bass. The lake is well-maintained by the City of Center, and it’s perfect for a quiet day of fishing without battling huge crowds.
Why Fish Here?
- Abundant bass population
- Peaceful setting
- No huge boats to dodge—perfect for kayaks and small boats
Tip: Try fishing around the brushy points and shallow coves early in the morning for the best results.
2. San Augustine City Lake – San Augustine, TX
Located just minutes from downtown, San Augustine City Lake is a fantastic local fishing hole. At roughly 65 acres, it’s a smaller body of water but packs a punch when it comes to bass action.
Why Fish Here?
- Super easy access
- Great for a quick morning or evening trip
- Stocked regularly with bass and catfish
This spot is ideal if you’re staying at Bland Lake Hideaway’s cabins—it’s close enough to sneak in a few casts before breakfast!
3. Sam Rayburn Reservoir – Broaddus, TX
You can’t talk about the Best Bass Lakes in East Texas without mentioning Sam Rayburn Reservoir. Only about 30 miles from San Augustine, this massive 114,000-acre lake is known nationwide for its trophy bass fishing.
Why Fish Here?
- Host of major bass tournaments
- Endless fishing opportunities in coves, creeks, and open water
- Topwater bite is legendary in spring and fall
Sam Rayburn is a must-fish destination if you’re serious about bass. Just don’t forget those live worms and tackle from Hardware on the Square!
4. Toledo Bend Reservoir – Hemphill, TX
Sitting right on the Texas-Louisiana border, Toledo Bend Reservoir is a true powerhouse. It’s about a 25-minute drive east from San Augustine and offers 185,000 acres of bass fishing heaven.
Why Fish Here?
- Regularly ranked among the top bass lakes in the U.S.
- Huge population of largemouth bass
- Fantastic year-round fishing
The scenery alone is worth the drive. Plus, with so much water to explore, you can almost always find your own secret fishing spot.
5. Lake Nacogdoches – Nacogdoches, TX
Head about 45 miles west and you’ll find Lake Nacogdoches, a bass angler’s paradise. It’s smaller than Sam Rayburn or Toledo Bend (only 2,200 acres), but it consistently produces big bass.
Why Fish Here?
- Crystal-clear water perfect for sight fishing
- Trophy bass (8-10 lb catches are common)
- Limited boat traffic, especially on weekdays
Early spring and late fall are prime times to visit, but Lake Nacogdoches offers solid fishing year-round.
6. Lake Pinkston – Shelbyville, TX
Another smaller but mighty lake, Lake Pinkston is about 30 miles northeast of San Augustine. Don’t let its size fool you—this 523-acre lake is absolutely packed with bass.
Why Fish Here?
- Excellent vegetation cover = great bass habitat
- Perfect for anglers who prefer fishing smaller lakes
- Consistent big bass reports
Lake Pinkston flies a little under the radar, making it one of the best-kept secrets among local fishermen.
Grab Your Gear Before You Go!
Before you head out to any of these fantastic bass fishing spots, make sure you’re fully stocked up.
At Hardware on the Square in downtown San Augustine, you’ll find everything you need—rods, reels, tackle, and the freshest live fishing worms around. Their friendly staff are anglers themselves and can even give you a few local tips!
Why East Texas Has the Best Bass Fishing
East Texas offers a perfect blend of warm weather, plentiful freshwater lakes, and excellent fish management practices. Whether you like flipping jigs into shallow timber, throwing topwater lures over hydrilla beds, or working crankbaits across rocky points, there’s a lake nearby that’s perfect for your style.
Bonus Tip:
Keep an eye on the water temperature—bass tend to bite best when the water is between 55°F and 75°F. Spring and fall are peak seasons, but summer night fishing can be absolutely incredible too.
Plan Your Bass Fishing Adventure Today!
Ready to hook into some of the biggest and best bass Texas has to offer? Start planning your trip around San Augustine today! Whether you stay close to home at San Augustine City Lake or venture out to the legendary Toledo Bend, you’re in for a bass fishing adventure you won’t forget.
For more great fishing tips, travel ideas, and local events, be sure to visit our Bland Lake Hideaway blog!
We can’t wait to see you on the water—good luck and tight lines!