What Braunig Lake Offers

Braunig Lake is a 1,350-acre cooling reservoir operated by CPS Energy about 15 miles southeast of downtown San Antonio. The lake sits in relatively flat terrain with sparse shoreline vegetation, making it a straightforward place to fish if you know what species live there and where they hold. Unlike the Hill Country lakes closer to the city, Braunig has no scenic backdrop — it exists primarily as a power-generation facility — but that industrial purpose creates stable water levels and consistent fishing throughout the year.

The lake holds largemouth bass, catfish, and sunfish. Bass fishing is strongest in spring and fall when water temperatures drop below 85 degrees; summer heat pushes fish deep and slows the bite considerably. Catfish bite year-round, especially at night, and sunfish (bluegill and redear) provide reliable action for anglers with light tackle or kids learning to fish.

Key Takeaways

  • Braunig Lake is a 1,350-acre cooling reservoir 15 miles southeast of San Antonio with stable water levels and year-round fishing for bass, catfish, and sunfish.
  • Spring and fall offer the best bass fishing; summer heat pushes largemouth deep, and winter slows the bite but does not stop it entirely.
  • The lake has a public boat ramp, but no developed shoreline parks — most access is from the ramp or scattered informal spots along the perimeter road.
  • Catfish bite best at night using cut bait or stink bait; bass respond to topwater early and late in the day, and to deeper presentations at midday.
  • Check CPS Energy's website for current water-level information and any temporary closures before you go.

Access and Facilities

The main public access point is the Braunig Lake Park boat ramp, located on the south side of the lake. The ramp is free and open to the public, with a small parking area. There is no developed shoreline park with picnic tables or restrooms — this is a utilitarian facility. If you plan to fish from shore, you can park near the ramp and walk the perimeter, though much of the shoreline is either fenced or overgrown.

Launching a boat is the most practical way to fish Braunig effectively. The ramp is in decent condition but can get crowded on weekends, especially in spring. Arrive early if you want a smooth launch. There is no fuel dock or bait shop at the lake itself, so bring everything you need from San Antonio — bait, tackle, sunscreen, and water.

Bass Fishing Seasons and Techniques

Spring (February through April) is the prime season for largemouth bass. Water temperatures climb from the low 60s to the mid-70s, and bass move shallow to spawn. Fish the shoreline and any shallow structure — fallen trees, rock piles, or vegetation — with topwater plugs, soft plastics, and crankbaits. Early morning and late afternoon produce the most strikes.

Summer (May through September) is slow for bass. Water temperatures exceed 85 degrees, and fish retreat to deeper water and shade. If you fish midday, focus on the deepest holes in the lake — typically 25 to 35 feet — using drop-shot rigs or jigging spoons. Early morning and dusk are still your best windows; many anglers skip summer altogether and return in fall.

Fall (October through November) mirrors spring. Cooling water temperatures push bass back to shallower structure, and the bite becomes reliable again. Topwater and shallow-running crankbaits work well. Winter (December through January) slows the bite but does not kill it — fish deeper presentations on warmer afternoons when the sun warms the shallows slightly.

Catfish and Night Fishing

Catfish in Braunig respond best to cut bait or stink bait fished on the bottom at night. Channel catfish are the most common species; flatheads are present but less predictable. Set up simple three-way rigs or slip-sinker rigs with 2/0 to 4/0 circle hooks, and use chicken liver, cut shad, or commercial stink bait.

Fish the deeper holes and channel ledges — areas where the lake bottom drops off sharply. Night fishing from the boat ramp or from a boat anchored in 15 to 25 feet of water produces steady action. Bring a headlamp, a cooler, and patience; catfish fishing is a waiting game, but the payoff is reliable and often produces larger fish than daytime bass angling.

Sunfish and Light-Tackle Fishing

Bluegill and redear sunfish are abundant in Braunig and provide excellent fishing for anglers with ultralight spinning gear or fly rods. Fish shallow structure — downed trees, vegetation, and rocky areas — with small jigs (1/16 to 1/8 ounce), panfish flies, or live crickets and minnows. Sunfish bite consistently throughout the day, especially in spring and early summer.

This is ideal fishing for children or anyone learning the sport. Sunfish are aggressive, fight hard for their size, and are good eating if you want to keep a few. Catch-and-release is also rewarding; the action is fast enough to hold attention without requiring advanced technique.

Water Conditions and Safety

Braunig's water level is managed by CPS Energy for power generation, so it fluctuates seasonally but remains relatively stable compared to natural lakes. Check CPS Energy's website or call ahead before you go to confirm current conditions and any temporary closures related to maintenance or weather.

The lake can be windy, especially in spring and early summer. Afternoon winds often pick up, so plan to fish early and leave by midday if you are in a small boat. Wear a life jacket, bring extra water, and let someone know where you are going. The lake is open year-round, but summer heat and occasional algae blooms can affect water quality — avoid swimming and wash your hands after handling fish.

What to Bring and When to Go

Pack a tackle box with topwater plugs, soft plastics, crankbaits, and jigs in natural colors (green, brown, black). Bring a medium-weight spinning rod for bass and a heavier catfish rod if you plan to fish at night. Sunscreen, a hat, and polarized sunglasses are essential — the lake has little shade, and the sun reflects hard off the water.

Spring and fall are your best bets for consistent action and comfortable weather. If you fish in summer, plan for early morning or evening trips and bring plenty of water and electrolyte drinks. Winter is quiet but fishable; dress warmly and expect slower action. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, and early morning (before 8 a.m.) is always your best window for bass.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Texas fishing license to fish Braunig Lake?

Yes. Texas requires a fishing license for anyone 17 and older. You can purchase a license online through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website, at most sporting goods stores, or at Walmart. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license if you are visiting from out of state.

Can I fish from shore at Braunig Lake?

Technically yes, but it is not practical. Most of the shoreline is fenced or overgrown, and the best fishing is in deeper water accessible only by boat. The boat ramp is free and the easiest way to fish the lake effectively.

What is the best time of day to fish Braunig?

Early morning (sunrise to 9 a.m.) and late afternoon (4 p.m. to sunset) are most productive for bass and sunfish. Catfish bite best at night. Midday fishing is slow except in winter, when afternoon sun warming the shallows can trigger bites.

Are there any size or bag limits at Braunig Lake?

Texas has statewide limits for largemouth bass (14 inches minimum, five per day) and catfish (no minimum, 25 per day). Check the current Texas Parks and Wildlife Department regulations before you go, as limits can change.

Is the boat ramp open year-round?

The ramp is open year-round, but CPS Energy occasionally closes it for maintenance or during severe weather. Call ahead or check their website to confirm access before making the drive from San Antonio.