Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Medina River - San Antonio - Texas

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges Midday #18-22 Zebra Midge
February Blue-winged Olive Midday #16-20 Rusty Spinner
March Caddisfly Evening #14-18 X-Caddis
April Hatch Stonefly Evening #10-14 Golden Stone
May Mayfly Evening #10-16 Pheasant Tail nymph
June Terrestrial Insects Midday #12-16 Grasshopper Pattern
July Terrestrial insects Midday #12-16 Ant Pattern
August Terrestrial Insects Midday #12-16 Grasshopper Pattern
September Mayfly and Caddisfly Evening #10-16 Elk Hair Caddis
October Hatch Stonefly Evening #10-14 Golden Stone
November Blue-winged Olive Midday #16-20 Rusty Spinner
December Midges Midday #18-22 Zebra Midge

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

Medina River in San Antonio is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts, offering a plethora of ideal spots for fly fishing. Notable areas include:

  • Bandera City Park: This public spot is not only scenic but also boasts a wealth of fish. Its calm waters make it a favorite among beginners.
  • Peaceful Valley Road Bridge: It’s a quiet location that offers the opportunity to catch a variety of fish species, including bass and catfish.
  • The River’s Crossing: It provides excellent opportunities for catching largemouth bass and is highly recommended for seasoned anglers.
  • Paradise Canyon: Although it requires an entrance fee, it’s worth the price for its sport fishing opportunities and the chance to catch a trophy-size bass.
  • Medina River Natural Area: Apart from being a great fishing spot, this location also offers camping and picnic facilities.

Best Access Points

The Medina River in San Antonio, Texas provides several access points for fly fishing enthusiasts:

  • Bandera City Park: Situated in Bandera, this park provides direct access to the river and holds bass, catfish, and perch.
  • Medina River Natural Area: In San Antonio, this area offers 7 miles of Medina River frontage with several entry points. Renowned for good bass fishing conditions.
  • Peaceful Valley Road Bridge: Located near Bandera, this bridge is considered perfect for fly fishing, especially targeting Guadalupe bass and bluegill.
  • English Crossing: Located along the river in Bandera County, you can target largemouth bass, Guadalupe bass, bluegill, and redear sunfish here.

Always make sure to check for permissions or restrictions before fishing at these locations. Also, remember to follow catch and release principles to maintain fish stocks.

Local Fish

  • Guadalupe Bass: Known as the state fish of Texas, it’s one of the main targets for fly fishing in Medina River.
  • Rio Grande Cichlids: Also referred as “Texas’ tropical fish”, they are prized targets due to their beautiful colors and aggressive behavior.
  • Large Mouth Bass: These fish are known for their aggressive strikes, making them a popular choice for fly fishing.
  • White Bass: Typically, they come into the Medina River to spawn in early spring, and can provide an excellent fly fishing experience.
  • Channel Catfish: Though not traditional for fly fishing, their size, strength, and tenacity make them entertaining to catch.
  • Carp: They are challenging for fly fishing due to their subtle feeding habits, making them a worthy opponent for experienced anglers.
  • Sunfish: Easy to catch and great for beginners, sunfish can be found in abundance in the Medina River.
  • Black Drum: These fish are strong fighters and provide huge excitement when hooked, particularly for fly fishers.

About The River

The Medina River is a site of great historical importance nestled in the heart of San Antonio. This treasured river flows from the Medina Lake down through the rural topography to its convergence with the San Antonio River. Its name, traced back to Spanish origins, is derived from ‘Medina’ –an Arabic term meaning “the city”.

Historically, the Medina River has provided vital resources to the region. The Spanish used it for irrigation, evidenced by the 18th-century Spanish acequias found along its banks. Similarly, indigenous peoples, such as the Payaya indigenous groups, thrived off its waters, a lifeline to the local flora and fauna.

  • 1745: Foundation of the famous farm community, Villa de Medina, along its banks.
  • 1842: A significant battle took place beside the river during the Texas Republic era.

Today, the Medinal River remains a treasured waterway, offering beautiful landscapes for canoeing, fishing, and bird watching.

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