Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Pedernales River - Johnson City - 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 Afternoon 18-22 Zebra Midge, Disco Midge
Blue Winged Olives Cloudy Days 16-20 BWO Emerger, Pheasant Tail
February Midges Afternoon 18-22 Zebra Midge, Disco Midge
Blue Winged Olives Cloudy Days 16-20 BWO Emerger, Pheasant Tail
March Caddis Afternoon 14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
April Caddis Afternoon 14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
Mayflies Mid morning - Afternoon 14-18 Adams, Hare's Ear
May Caddis Afternoon 14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
Mayflies Mid morning - Afternoon 14-18 Adams, Hare's Ear
Terrestrials Warm, Calm Days 10-14 Hopper Patterns, Ant Patterns
June Terrestrials Warm, Calm Days 10-14 Hopper Patterns, Ant Patterns
July Terrestrials Warm, Calm Days 10-14 Hopper Patterns, Ant Patterns
August Terrestrials Warm, Calm Days 10-14 Hopper Patterns, Ant Patterns
September Terrestrials Warm, Calm Days 10-14 Hopper Patterns, Ant Patterns
Mayflies Mid morning - Afternoon 14-18 Adams, Hare's Ear
October Mayflies Mid morning - Afternoon 14-18 Adams, Hare's Ear
Midges Afternoon 18-22 Zebra Midge, Disco Midge
November Midges Afternoon 18-22 Zebra Midge, Disco Midge
Blue Winged Olives Cloudy Days 16-20 BWO Emerger, Pheasant Tail
December Midges Afternoon 18-22 Zebra Midge, Disco Midge
Blue Winged Olives Cloudy Days 16-20 BWO Emerger, Pheasant Tail

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

Located in the heart of Texas, Pedernales River – Johnson City is a haven for avid fly fishers. Some top spots include:

  • Pedernales Falls State Park: This state park boasts clear waters teeming with various fish species perfect for fly fishing. Explore the Twin Falls Nature Trail area for a quiet, serene fishing spot.
  • Reimers Ranch Park: Although more popular for swimming and rock climbing, this park also houses several fly fishing opportunities.
    1. The Pedernales River running through the park is a known spot among locals.
    2. The further downstream you go, the more seclusion you find, offering tranquility as you fish.
  • Adjacent to Stanley’s Farmhouse Pizza: Located just east of Johnson City, this lesser-known spot teeming with abundant Texas hill country fish species. The rushing waters and amalgamation of currents create the perfect conditions for fly fishing.

Best Access Points

The Pedernales River supplies numerous access points to indulge in fly fishing, particularly around Johnson City. Some of the prolific locales include:
  • Reimer’s Ranch Park: This 2,427-acre park incorporates a mile of Pedernales River frontage, providing abundant fishing spots.
  • Milton Reimers Ranch Road: Aside from the park, the road itself offers several access points to the river.
  • Pedernales Falls State Park: Though upstream from Johnson City, the state park has a variety of fishing access points along a stretch of the river.
  • Lyndon B. Johnson State Park: Also upstream, it offers fishing access at various points towards the eastern end of the river.
 Remember, as the water levels can vary greatly, always check conditions before your trip. Also, take note that Texas state law requires a fishing license for anyone over 17.

Local Fish

  • Guadalupe Bass: As the state fish of Texas, the Guadalupe Bass is a popular species among fly fishermen. It is known for its hard fight and is often found in faster currents.
  • Rainbow Trout: These are stocked in the river during the colder months and provide exciting fly fishing opportunities. They are best targeted in the deeper pools of the river.
  • Large Mouth Bass: A classic target for fishermen, this popular gamefish provides a challenge due to their size and fighting abilities.
  • Smallmouth Bass: Known for their fighting abilities, Smallmouth Bass are enjoyed by fly fishermen. They can be found in both fast and slow currents.
  • Bluegill: These are a great species for beginners to fly fishing due to their aggressive nature and the relative ease of catching them.
  • Channel Catfish: With their great sense of smell, this species requires careful selection of fly patterns. They are popular among fly fishermen because of their size and power.
  • Crappie: Though they are more difficult to target with flies, Crappie are a prized catch due to their delicious taste.
  • Carp: Regarded as a challenging species to catch, Carp are admired by fly fishermen for their careful feeding habits and strong fights when hooked.

About The River

The Pedernales River brings life to the historical town of Johnson City nestled in the Texas Hill Country. Its journey began millions of years ago, carving through the limestone bedrock to create stunning canyons and natural wonders. This picturesque river is deeply interwoven with the history of the region, providing water to Native Americans, early settlers, and later inspiring the creation of the Lyndon Baines Johnson National Park.
  • The river’s name, Pedernales, originates from a Spanish word meaning ‘flint’, reflecting the flint-rich soil of the region.
  • It was a vital resource for the local prehistoric Native American tribes and later for the pioneers settling in Texas in the 19th century.
  • Today, the Pedernales River State Park, with its spacious campsites, hiking trails, and scenic waterfalls, is a go-to spot for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
  • The river also flows through the Heart of the Ranch, in the Lyndon B. Johnson National Park, the Texan president’s beloved childhood home.
This emblematic river, transparent as history yet profound as memory, continues to shape the land and the life of Johnson City.
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