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Across East Texas, families can enjoy some of the best bass fishing, crappie fishing, and kid-friendly fishing spots near Tyler, TX, with lakes perfect for boat fishing, bank fishing, and beginner anglers.
Planning a weekend fishing trip, searching for family-friendly lakes in East Texas, or hoping to introduce your kids to the fun of fishing outdoors, these local fishing spots make it easy to spend quality time together in nature.
The Boulders at Lake Tyler
Cost: $6 per person – Day-use guests until 7pm
$7 per person – Day-use guests after 7pm
*Fishing license needed
Description: At The Boulders at Lake Tyler, the covered fishing barge is one of the best family friendly fishing spots in East Texas and an easy place for kids fishing in Tyler TX to try it for the very first time.
This shaded, beginner-friendly fishing dock is designed to take the pressure off parents and make it simple for kids to enjoy lake fishing in a relaxed setting. Instead of searching for the perfect fishing hole, families can settle in at this kid-friendly fishing area and let little ones experience the excitement of waiting for a bite. It is less about skill and more about creating a fun first fishing experience where kids can build confidence and enjoy the outdoors.
A fishing license is required (sold on-site), and if anything gets forgotten, the on-site bait and tackle shop makes it easy to grab fishing supplies, bait, and gear so the day can keep going without stress.
After fishing, families can turn it into a full day of outdoor family fun in East Texas. Head out for a nature hike, let the kids play at the playground, take a peaceful boardwalk walk, or cool off with a snow cone. It is the perfect mix of Lake Tyler activities for families, making it one of the top places for things to do in Tyler, TX with kids when you want a simple, memory-filled day outside.
Address: 16822 McElroy Rd, Whitehouse, TX 75791
Phone: (903) 839-5581
Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center
Cost:
$5.50 for ages 17–64
$4.50 for seniors 65 and older
$3.50 for children ages 4 through 16
Free for children ages 3 and under
*NO Fishing license needed
Description: Family friendly educational aquarium and fish hatchery where visitors can explore freshwater ecosystems, learn about Texas fishing, and enjoy outdoor nature exhibits and fishing ponds. Fishing gear is provided
Address: 5550 FM 2495, Athens, TX 75752
Phone: (903) 676-2277
Tyler State Park
Cost:
$6 Adult (13 years+)
Child 12 Years and Under are Free
Description: Scenic East Texas state park offering fishing for bass, catfish, crappie, and perch with a pier, boat ramp, and borrow fishing gear through the TPWD Tackle Loaner Program. No fishing license required when fishing from shore inside the park.
Address: Tyler State Park Area 1 Bath House, 789 Park Rd 16, Tyler, TX 75706
Phone: (903) 597-5338
Harvey Lake on UT Tyler
Description: Small campus pond offering a peaceful spot to relax and occasionally spot sunfish, providing a quiet outdoor nature break right on campus.
*No fishing License needed
Address: 3900 University Blvd, Tyler, TX 75799
Do you have a favorite excursion?
Please reach out and I’ll be happy to add you to the list.
Looking for more ways to beat the summer heat?
No summer day is complete without a sweet treat. Head over to our Cold Treats Guide for the best ice cream, snow cones, and frozen goodies across East Texas.
Whatever you choose, there are plenty of ways to stay cool and make lasting memories this summer… but the secret to actually enjoying it? Having the right essentials packed and ready.
Tap to see the full Summer Essentials list you’ll wish you had sooner
