Fishing Report: Guadalupe River Spring 2026
Fishing Report: Guadalupe River Spring 2026
The Guadalupe River is running clear and cold this spring, and the fishing has been exceptional. After decades of chasing stories across Nebraska and beyond, I always find my way back to the waters where I learned to fish. There’s something about the rhythm of a good cast, the whisper of the current, that grounds me before a big investigation.
Current Conditions
As of mid-May 2026, the Guadalupe is running at 427 cfs at the Kerrville gauge—ideal conditions for wade fishing. Water temperatures hover around 58-62°F, perfect for rainbow and brown trout in the catch-and-release section below dam.
The spring spawn is winding down, but the fish are still aggressive. I’ve landed several nice rainbows in the 14-18 inch range over the past two weeks, particularly around the Box Canyon reach and the Cypress Bend area.
What’s Biting
| Species | Size Range | Best Bait/Flies |
|---|---|---|
| Rainbow Trout | 12-20" | Stonefly nymphs, Rs2s, small streamers |
| Brown Trout | 14-22" | Clouser minnows, Woolly Buggers |
| Smallmouth Bass | 10-16" | Crawfish patterns, popgers |
| Guadalupe Bass | 8-14" | Topwater, nymphs |
The topwater bite has been excellent in the early morning hours—think 6:30-8:30 AM. I’ve had success with Gordon Griffiths and Boogle Bug poppers in sizes 4-6. If the surface bite slows, switch to a Woolly Bugger or Clouser in olive or/crawfish colors.
Hot Spots This Week
- Upper Mountain Grape — Best for solitude. Light pressure, healthy fish.
- Kerrville City Park — Accessible, good for beginners. Watch for boat traffic.
- Cypress Bend — Trophy water. Move down after early morning.
Tips for This Weekend
- Go early: The crowds will be out by 10 AM on Saturday
- Watch the weather: Afternoon thunderstorms are common this time of year
- Bring layers: It cools off quickly when the clouds roll in
The spring creeper hatch is just starting—I’ve seen a few caddisflies on the water. If you’re heading out, a #14 caddis or elk hair caddis in tan is a good bet.
A Note on Ethics
For those new to the Hill Country: please practice catch-and-release in the trout section. The rainbow population below the dam is maintained by stocking, but brown trout are wild and vital to the ecosystem. Handle all fish with wet hands and get them back in the water quickly.
Matthew Bovee is an investigative journalist who grew up fishing the Guadalupe River in Kerrville, Texas. When he’s not investigating stories or writing books, you’ll find him on the water—or researching his next book.