Your Fall Fishing Game Plan: Best Species, Tactics, and Where to Go

As the summer heat fades and cooler temperatures roll in, fall fishing season begins across Texas and beyond. The changing water temperatures trigger aggressive feeding behavior in both freshwater and saltwater species, making fall one of the most productive—and enjoyable—times of year to fish.

Whether you’re after largemouth bass on private lakes, redfish in the marsh, or trout in clear rivers, having the right seasonal game plan makes all the difference. Here’s your species-by-species breakdown of what to target this fall, the best tactics to use, and how BirdDog can help you access the best fishing across the state.

Freshwater Focus

As water temperatures cool and baitfish schools move shallower, fall offers some of the most exciting freshwater fishing of the year.

Largemouth Bass

In the fall, largemouth bass transition from deep summer haunts into creeks and shallow coves. This is prime time for reaction baits like squarebill crankbaits, chatterbaits, and spinnerbaits. On calm mornings or cloudy days, work a topwater bait along submerged vegetation or shallow structure. Private lakes available through BirdDog often hold unpressured bass populations that respond aggressively during this season.

Trout

For anglers who prefer moving water, trout fishing in fall is phenomenal. Look for cooler creeks, spring-fed rivers, or tailwaters where water clarity and oxygen levels remain high. Cast small spoons, inline spinners, or flies that imitate aquatic insects. BirdDog’s private river access gives you a front-row seat to prime trout habitat—no crowds, just clean water and hungry fish.

Saltwater Targets

On the coast, fall brings cooler Gulf waters and massive bait migrations that fire up redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. With fewer crowds and more consistent action, it’s one of the best times to fish the Texas Coastal Bend and beyond.

Redfish

In fall, redfish flood the marshes, backlakes, and coastal flats. Throw soft plastics or gold spoons along grass edges, or work topwater lures in low-light conditions for explosive strikes. With BirdDog, you can book guided redfish trips on private-access marshes or fish-rich flats from Rockport to Port O’Connor.

Speckled Trout

Specks love shallow bay systems during fall. Cast popping corks with shrimp imitators or small paddle tails around oyster reefs and drop-offs. BirdDog’s partnered outfitters on the Texas coast can help you locate prime trout schools and provide expert local insight.

Black Drum & Sheepshead

For anglers who love light tackle action, black drum and sheepshead can be found around docks, jetties, and structure. Use shrimp or fiddler crabs on light leaders for steady, technical fun.

BirdDog’s Fall Fishing Advantage

BirdDog isn’t just another booking platform—it’s your seasonal fishing partner. Our network connects anglers, guides, and landowners across Texas to make fishing more accessible, private, and personalized.

When you plan your fall fishing trips with BirdDog, you gain:

• Exclusive access to private ponds, lakes, and coastal properties
• Local insight from trusted guides and landowners who know what’s biting
• Custom gear recommendations for each region and species
• Curated fall experiences that include lodging, meals, and on-site fishing amenities

Whether you’re flipping docks for bass in East Texas, casting topwaters for redfish near Rockport, or drifting a quiet river for trout, BirdDog makes it easy to find, book, and enjoy the best fishing of the season.

The Bottom Line

Fall is a season of change—and opportunity—for anglers. Cooler temps, active fish, and migrating bait make it the perfect time to get back on the water. With BirdDog, you don’t just find a place to fish—you discover exclusive access, curated trips, and expert guidance that make every cast count.

So gear up, check the wind, and let BirdDog put you on the fish this fall. Book your next adventure at birddogit.com.