Guadalupe River Fishing: Best Times to Go
The Guadalupe River below Camp La Junta offers year-round fishing, but timing matters. Here’s my guide to when to go for the best experience.
Seasonal Breakdown
Spring (March-May) ⭐ TOP CHOICE
Spring is prime time on the Guads:
- March: Spawning runs bring fish upstream
- April: Post-spawn feeding frenzy
- May: Warm water, active fish
Best for: Large trout, consistent action
Water conditions: Moderate flows, good clarity
Summer (June-August)
Peak season means crowds:
- June: Early mornings crucial
- July: Dog days restrict midday
- August: Monsoon season, watch weather
Best for: Dawn/bitexperiencetail sessions, avoiding heat
Tip: Fish deep pools, use streamers
Fall (September-November) ⭐ TOP CHOICE
My personal favorite:
- September: Cooling water, active fish
- October: Best overall conditions
- November: Pre-winter feeding
Best for: Big browns, consistent numbers
Winter (December-February)
Challenging but rewarding:
- December: Low water, fish in deeper runs
- January: Slow but big fish possible
- February: Pre-spawn buildup
Best for: Solitude seekers, larger flies
Time of Day
| Time | Conditions | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Dawn (6-8am) | Best overall | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Morning (8-11am) | Good | ⭐⭐ |
| Midday (11am-2pm) | Summer only | ⭐ |
| Afternoon (2-5pm) | Variable | ⭐⭐ |
| Evening (5-8pm) | Good | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Weather Factors
Ideal Conditions
- Overcast days — Fish more actively
- Stable weather — Consistent behavior
- Rising barometer — Pre-storm feeding
- Light rain — Great stealth
Avoid
- Major fronts — Fish shut down
- Heavy rain — Unsafe, muddy water
- Extreme heat — Midday non-bites
Flow Rates
The Guadalupe is dam-controlled. Check flows before:
| Flow (cfs) | Conditions |
|---|---|
| 80-150 | Optimal |
| 150-250 | Good, higher banks |
| 250+ | High water, caution |
| <80 | Low, spooky fish |
My Favorite Spots
Below Camp La Junta
- The Horseshoe — Deep pool, morning shade
- Rocky Point — Structure, evening rise
- Willow Bend — Takes all conditions
Further Downstream
- Kerrville Town Run — Accessible, pressured
- Hunt Bridge — Remote, consistent
Gear Recommendations
Rods
- 3-weight for spring creek
- 4-weight all-around
Flies
- Spring: Pheasant tails, hare’s ears
- Summer: Stimulators, ants
- Fall: streamers, woolly buggers
Conclusion
The Guadalupe treats those who understand her. Time your trips right, respect the resource, and you’ll find your reward.
Tight lines! 🐟