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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 Boudlers at Lake Tyler – Fishing Barge
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
