What Landa Park Offers Anglers

Landa Park is a 95-acre spring-fed park in New Braunfels with two distinct fishing zones: the upper spring pool and the lower Guadalupe River section. The upper pool holds largemouth bass, catfish, and some sunfish in clear, cool water that stays around 68 degrees year-round. The lower section, where the Guadalupe River exits the park, offers smallmouth bass, catfish, and occasional stripers, especially in fall and winter when cooler water pushes them upstream from Canyon Lake.

The park charges a day-use fee (currently around $5 per vehicle, though this varies by season) and requires you to check in at the entrance. Fishing is allowed from sunrise to sunset. The upper pool has a concrete fishing pier and bank access along the eastern side. The river section has limited bank access but offers better structure—fallen trees, current breaks, and deeper holes—where bass hold during the heat of the day.

Key Takeaways

  • Landa Park's upper spring pool holds largemouth bass and catfish in crystal-clear, 68-degree water that fishes best in early morning or late evening when light is low.
  • The lower Guadalupe River section within the park holds smallmouth bass and catfish and is more productive than the upper pool during summer heat.
  • Day-use fees apply; check the park entrance for current rates and hours, which may shift seasonally.
  • Bring polarized sunglasses for the upper pool—the water is so clear that sight-casting is possible but fish are easily spooked by shadows and vibration.
  • Catfish bite best at night or in low light; if you want to fish after dark, confirm the park's after-hours policy at the gate.

Tackle and Bait for the Upper Spring Pool

The upper pool's clarity is both a gift and a curse. Fish see everything, so use light line (6 to 8 pound test), small lures, and natural colors. Largemouth bass respond to 2- to 3-inch soft plastics in green pumpkin, watermelon, or natural shad patterns. Work them slowly along the pier pilings and near the spring vents on the eastern bank, where cooler water attracts fish during hot months.

For catfish, cut bait works better than live bait in the upper pool because the current is minimal and scent dispersal is slow. Use chicken liver, cut shad, or stink bait on a simple three-way rig with a small sinker. Fish the deeper holes near the pier at dusk or after dark. Bluegill and other sunfish will hit small spinners and panfish jigs, but they are abundant and not the main draw for most anglers.

Fishing the Lower Guadalupe River Section

The river section is narrower and faster than the upper pool, with better current and more cover. Smallmouth bass prefer this environment and are more aggressive than their largemouth cousins in the upper pool. Use 1/4- to 3/8-ounce crankbaits in shad or crawdad patterns, or throw small tubes (2 to 3 inches) in natural colors around submerged wood and current breaks.

The river section also holds catfish, especially channel cats in the 2- to 5-pound range. Fish the deeper runs and eddies behind fallen trees with cut bait or live bluegill. Stripers occasionally move into this section in fall and winter; if you see them rolling, try small shad-pattern swimbaits or live shad on a light sinker. The river current means your bait drifts faster, so use a slightly heavier rig than you would in still water.

Seasonal Patterns and Best Times

Spring (March through May) brings rising water levels and cooler temperatures. Bass are active throughout the day, and the upper pool can be productive in early morning before the sun climbs high. Catfish bite consistently at night. This is the easiest season for beginners.

Summer (June through August) pushes largemouth bass deeper and into shade. The upper pool becomes difficult midday; fish early (before 8 a.m.) or late (after 6 p.m.). The lower river section stays cooler and is more productive. Catfish bite best after dark. If the park allows night fishing, this is prime catfish season.

Fall (September through November) cools the water and brings stripers upstream from Canyon Lake. The lower river section becomes excellent. Smallmouth bass are active all day. Largemouth bass return to the upper pool as water temperature drops. This is the most consistent season overall.

Winter (December through February) is slow for largemouth bass but good for smallmouth and catfish in the river section. The upper pool can be productive on mild days. Fewer anglers fish in winter, so you will have more space.

Access, Parking, and Park Rules

Landa Park has a main entrance off Common Street in New Braunfels. Parking is available near the upper pool and near the river section; the two areas are connected by a walking path but are separate fishing zones. Restrooms and picnic areas are available throughout the park.

Fishing is catch-and-release only for bass; check current Texas Parks and Wildlife regulations for catfish and sunfish limits before you fish. No trotlines, juglines, or night crawling is allowed without a special permit. Wading is not permitted in the upper pool to protect water quality. The river section allows wading in designated areas, but the current can be strong after heavy rain—check conditions at the gate.

The park is popular with swimmers and tubers, especially on weekends and holidays. Fishing is usually better on weekday mornings when crowds are light. If you plan to fish after sunset, confirm the park's after-hours policy at the entrance; policies change seasonally and by management decision.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Bring polarized sunglasses—they are essential for sight-casting in the upper pool and for spotting structure in the river. A small cooler with water and snacks is wise; the park has limited shade, and the Texas sun is relentless. Sunscreen and a hat are not optional.

If you plan to fish the river section, wear shoes with good grip; the rocks are slippery and the current can shift suddenly. A small headlamp or flashlight is useful if you stay into dusk. Bring a net or a pair of long-nose pliers for handling catfish safely.

Check the Texas Parks and Wildlife website for current regulations on species limits and size restrictions before you go. Landa Park's rules are stricter than state law in some cases (bass are catch-and-release only, for example), so read the posted signs at the entrance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Landa Park at night?

Night fishing is sometimes allowed but depends on the season and park management. Call the park directly or check at the entrance gate before you plan a night trip. If it is allowed, catfish bite best from dusk through midnight, especially in summer.

Is the water safe to wade in?

Wading is not allowed in the upper spring pool to protect water quality. The river section allows wading in designated areas, but the current is strong and the rocks are slippery. Wear shoes with good grip and check water conditions at the gate, especially after rain.

What is the best time of day to fish Landa Park?

Early morning (sunrise to 9 a.m.) and late evening (5 p.m. to sunset) are most productive, especially in summer. The upper pool is clearest and fish are most active in low light. The river section can fish well all day, but early morning and late evening are still your best bet.

Do I need a fishing license to fish Landa Park?

Yes, a valid Texas fishing license is required for anyone 17 and older. You can purchase one online through the Texas Parks and Wildlife website or at most sporting goods stores in New Braunfels.

What size bass do I need to keep?

Bass are catch-and-release only at Landa Park, so size does not matter—all bass must be returned to the water. Check the posted regulations at the park entrance for catfish and sunfish size and bag limits, which follow Texas state law.