KATY MAGAZINE NEWS
May 6, 2021
By Natalie Cook Clark
Katy families and serious fishermen find fish in local parks and residential lakes. Texas Parks and Wildlife will be restocking Mary Jo Peckham with catfish every two-weeks through the end of October. Kids 16 and under can fish free.
Opening photo of Mary Jo Peckham Park by Srini Sundajaran
Fishing in Katy
Katy families don’t need to go far to find that perfect fishing spot. A fish dinner, or at least the experience of the catch, could be as close as your neighborhood lake.
Local parks and neighborhood lakes are perfect spots to brush off those old poles and teach young fishermen how to cast, reel, and laugh the sunny days away with family and friends. Here are some great places in Katy.
*Please note that anyone fishing over 16 must have a license and neighborhood rules do apply.
5597 Gardenia Lane
It's no secret that if you want bites, you should try Mary Jo Peckham Park. The park is part of the Texas Parks and Wildlife's "Neighborhood Fishin'" Program. TPWD regularly re-stocks the lake at Mary Jo Peckham with catfish every two through the end of October. The park is also home to many wonderful programs and activities. Check their website and for details.
Kids 16 and under don't require a license.
2. Bear Creek
A pretty popular and well-known spot just north of Clay Road, so expect to run into a few people, but your chances of hooking a nice crappie or big bass are fairly good.
Elyson, a Katy community development has just broken ground on a 145-acre park project that those fishing here will benefit from. A dog park, playground, outdoor training area, and more are part of the plans.
3. Mason Creek
Just north of Franz Road on Porter is a hike and bike park with a large, central lake. The real fishing though, is in a small, bottle-necked creek that runs underneath the road.
4. Grand Lakes
The lakes in the Grand Lakes communities are stocked with fish including some bass. Note: This fishing area is only for Grand Lakes residents and is catch and release only.
A bit of a departure from Katy, but worth the drive if you have the time. Check out the Kickerillo-Mischer Preserve located near 249 in nearby Cypress.
Three large, interconnected lakes yield sizable catches all year round. Your best bet is the southern-most lake near the playground. Note: This fishing area is only for Cinco Ranch residents and is catch and release.
Located near Katy Hockley and West Road, area fisherman have said John Paul Landing Park features great place to get bites, and great if you want to take the kids, too.
Fishing License Required
Residents can get a fishing license online.
A freshwater fishing license (which is what you need to fish around Katy) is $30. Seniors are $12.
Remember to always be aware of your surroundings.
Be Safe
When fishing, remember the following to stay safe:
Always Keep Watch - Never leave a child unattended near any water. Drowning can take only 20 seconds.
Watch out for critters - Snakes and gators can be found on the shoreline and in the water.
Parking - Make sure you are parked legally and safely.
Fishing is a long-time tradition that brings families together for a good time. It is a local activity. How easy it is, is up to you!