Hill Country Edge
Medina Lake
KayakingFishingBirding
Hill Country Edge
Medina Lake is a 5,426-acre reservoir about 40 miles northwest of San Antonio straddling Bandera and Medina counties, created in 1913 by the completion of Medina Dam — at the time the largest concrete dam in the United States. The lake reaches a maximum depth of 152 feet with large seasonal fluctuations of up to 40 feet, producing dramatic coves, rocky outcrops, and flooded creek beds that concentrate fish. Its more than 100 miles of rugged shoreline and clear water also attract scuba divers exploring submerged structures when water levels are favorable. Fishing is rated good to excellent across multiple species: largemouth bass, hybrid striped bass, and catfish (channel, blue, and flathead) are the top targets, with smallmouth bass and white bass also present. Zebra mussels have been confirmed in the reservoir, so boaters must clean, drain, and dry all equipment before traveling to other water bodies. No TPWD boat ramp exists directly on the lake, so most anglers access the water through private marina facilities or the Bandera County park area.
Shade Details
Open water with no shade. Some shade at marina and picnic areas.
Conditions & Tips
Check lake level before visiting — Medina is drought-sensitive. Access via Lakehills Marina or Medina Lake Park.
Lake level drops dramatically in drought — check current level before planning a trip. Can fall below 50% capacity in extended drought.
Ta Shunka Trail