Learn about Texas fishing license requirements for residents and non-residents. Find out who needs a license and exemptions for seniors, disabled veterans, and more.

Fishing License

Texas Fishing License

Discover Texas's premier fishing lakes: Lake Bois D'arc, Lake Fork, and Lake O.H. Ivie. From tranquility to trophy bass, find your angling paradise!

Best Lakes 

Best Fishing Lakes In Texas 

Beautiful morning yesterday. Had a couple nice gentleman out with me for a half day trip. Top water bite was fire for us. Every stop I took them guys they caught fish. If you want to book. Trip get with me. 940-205-7804
#texasguidejaybonner
#bluecollarrod
#seekanddestroyswimbaits
#lakeforkguidejaybonner
#bajiosunglasses
#hagsbaits
#lakefork
#everyone
#bluecollarrods
#lakeforktrophylures

Topwater Mornings Are Producing Big Time

The big worm bite is still here and I have a pile of them that is being shipped and will be here Wednesday or Thursday if you want to buy some. 12.5” and 15”. Proven big fish catching baits. I have Wednesday available to book if you want to learn the lake. I’m have been fishing this lake for 40 years. 940-205-7804. 
#texasguidejaybonner
#seekanddestroyswimbaits
#lakeforkguidejaybonner
#bajiosunglasses
#bluecollarrod
#hagsbaits
#lakefork
#everyone

Big Worm Bite Still Going Strong

If you’re wanting to pre fish for the Sealy I have the 14th open, 15th open, 16th evening open, 17th open, 18th evening open. These will feel fast. To book them get with me asap 940-205-7804. Can call or text. Love to show you the ropes. Been catching some nice fish
#texasguidejaybonner
#seekanddestroyswimbaits
#lakeforkguidejaybonner
#everyone
#hagsbaits
#bajiosunglasses
#bluecollarrods
#lakefork

Largemouth Bass caught while fishing in Emory

Pre-Fishing Spots Now Available

My clients put on a clinic this morning on a half day trip. Boated I think 12 fish. First cast his son had I’m pretty sure a DD on. She broke off at boat. Fun day with these guys. I have days and nights open 7 days a week. 24/7 around here lol. Get with me if you want to book a trip 940-205-7804 
#livfishing
#seekanddestroyswimbaits
#hagsbait
#BajioSunglasses
#bluecollarrods
#thegoatlake
#lakefork
#texas
#everyone
#lakeforktrophylures

Nonstop bass action on Lake Fork

What another beautiful day on the goat lake fork.  Had a cancellation and went out solo and smashed them again.  First fish was 5.47 and ended up with 3 scale worthy with 17.61. Fished only few hours. I have days available for booking if you want to come chase some trophy bass. The buzzards are buzzing let’s go get on em. 940-205-7804
#seekanddestroyswimbaits
#hagsbait
#bajiosunglasses
#bluecollarrods
#livfishing
#texas
#everyone
#thegoatlake
#lakeforktrophylures
#lakefork

Trophy bass bites keep coming on Lake Fork

6.17 for the big today. If you want to book a trip I’m on some bigger fish.  Night trips available. Full day or half days 940-205-7804
#seekanddestroyswimbaits
#hagsbait
#bajiosunglasses
#bluecollarrods
#thegoatlake
#livfishing
#texas
#everyone
#lakefork

Largemouth Bass caught while fishing in TX

Big bass action on Lake Fork

Seek & destroy swim baits big 12.5” ribbon tail in color bloodline and hags baits F8 did the trick today. I do have some days available if you want to book. Day or night trips. 940-205-7804
#seekanddestroyswimbaits
#hagsbait
#bajiosunglasses
#bluecollarrods
#thegoatlake
#livfishing
#lakefork
#texas
#everyone

Productive day on Lake Fork with top baits

Largemouth Bass

Prime Bass Fishing Conditions and Hot Spots at Lake Fork This June

Lake Fork continues to deliver excellent bass action this season, with anglers landing plenty of quality largemouths. Water temperatures are hovering around 78–82°F, creating ideal conditions for active bass throughout the day. Early mornings and late afternoons remain the prime times to target bass near submerged timber and rocky shorelines.

Top presentations include shaky head worms, Carolina rigs, and spinnerbaits. Anglers report success using crawfish and creature baits in natural colors. Surface action has picked up during low light, so don’t hesitate to try topwater lures like frogs and buzzbaits for exciting strikes.

The lake’s clarity is good, making finesse techniques effective in deeper brush piles and ledges. Overall, Lake Fork is buzzing with productive spots for all skill levels. Plan your trip now to experience one of Texas’ premier bass fisheries at its best!



Crappie

Lake Fork Fishing Report

Break records-it’s the best time to go after Largemouth Bass, Crappie is also on the list and there are also some Catfish biting. show off your angling skills! Booking your trip now for the rest of August and September before they fill up. Night trips are also available.

Largemouth bass caught while fishing in Emory

Read expert Fishing articles, travel insights, and local stories from Jay Bonner Lake Fork Guide Service in Lake Fork. Stay informed and inspired for your next adventure.

Lake Fork Fishing Articles & Insights | Jay Bonner Lake Fork Guide Service

Fish all day and appreciate the beautiful scenery as you set off on a memorable adventure with Jay Bonner Lake Fork Guide Service. If you're seeking some peace and quiet or an action-packed day, Captain Jay Bonner is here to provide you with a great time onboard. Nothing beats an trip with a passionate and dedicated local guide whose goal is to give you a one-of-a-kind experience! Ride in style aboard the 2021 Skeeter FXR21 Apex outfitted with top-of-the-line electronics and gear that will take you to the hottest spots in a blink of an eye. This vessel has plenty of space and ensures you a smooth sail on the waters. Wrestle some of the most tough-fighting fish species off of Lake Fork and get ready to come home with jam-packed coolers. This charter is all about Bass fishing so expect to get your hands on these mighty fish. A legendary fishing excursion awaits you and your family, friends, and even coworkers. The captain will provide all your fishing needs, so stock up on food and beverages to keep you refreshed throughout your journey. Embark on a wild and epic fishing extravaganza today with Jay Bonner Lake Fork Guide Service - Fish to your heart's content!

EPSG:4269

Give the gift of a world-class bass fishing trip on Lake Fork.

E-GIFT CARDS

Beautiful morning yesterday. Had a couple nice gentleman out with me for a half day trip. Top water bite was fire for us. Every stop I took them guys 

The big worm bite is still here and I have a pile of them that is being shipped and will be here Wednesday or Thursday if you want to buy some. 12.5” 

Book a trip with &nbsp;Jay Bonner Lake Fork Guide Service and experience premium Bass Fishing with the best guide in the area, Captain Jay Bonner. Experience an edge-of-the-seat fishing action perfect for anglers of all ages and skill levels.

Jay Bonner is your trusted expert for premier bass fishing adventures across Texas. Backed by a team of experienced guides, we specialize in delivering personalized fishing trips on some of the state’s most sought-after lakes, including O.H. Ivie, Bois D’Ark, and Lake Fork. Our commitment to quality means you’ll fish with top-tier equipment and benefit from local knowledge that maximizes your chances for a successful catch. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just getting started, we customize every trip to match your skill level and fishing goals. At Jay Bonner Guides, we pride ourselves on creating memorable and rewarding fishing experiences. From the first cast to the final catch, our professional guides are dedicated to helping you land trophy bass while enjoying the natural beauty of Texas’ premier fishing destinations. Don’t miss out on your next fishing adventure—book your guided trip today and discover why anglers choose us for unmatched service and results on the water.

Give the gift of a world-class bass fishing trip on Lake Fork.

Lake Fork Fishing Guide Gift Cards | Perfect for Anglers Gift Cards

Purchase a digital gift certificate for Jay Bonner Lake Fork Guide Service. This credit applies to any scheduled charter for trophy largemouth bass on Texas' premier lake.

Surprise a fellow angler with a guided bass fishing day on the water.

Lake Fork Trip Voucher

Jay Bonner has been fishing the waters of Lake Fork since before he could even hold a rod on his own. Born and raised in Texas, Jay grew up on these legendary waters and has spent decades learning their every detail. Fishing isn’t just a hobby for him—it’s a lifelong passion and a deep part of who he is. As a husband, father to a beautiful daughter, and with a son on the way, Jay brings that same dedication he shows his family to every guided trip he leads. His commitment to providing a meaningful, memorable day on the lake is rooted in a love for both fishing and the people he shares the experience with. Jay’s expertise goes far beyond casual knowledge. Even when he’s not booked, you’ll find him on the water, scouting new locations, tracking patterns, and doing the work to stay ahead of the fish. He’s focused on finding quality bites and bigger bass—no shortcuts, no guesswork. It’s that drive to constantly improve and share what he knows that’s helped so many guests land their personal best. Jay has also built a strong partnership with SLIK Baits, using their high-quality lures to stay dialed into what Lake Fork’s bass are hungry for. He’s not just a guide—he’s the kind of person who makes you feel like you’re fishing with an old friend. Friendly, approachable, and always up for sharing stories, Jay values meeting new people and building genuine connections on the water. Whether it’s your first time fishing or your hundredth, he takes the time to make each trip enjoyable, educational, and personal. Jay also runs trips on Lake O.H. Ivie and Bois d’Arc Lake, offering his clients options to chase trophy bass across some of Texas’ best fisheries. <h3>About the Boat</h3>Jay runs his trips in a fully equipped 2022 Skeeter FXR21 Apex—one of the top-performing bass boats on the market. With its sleek design, advanced electronics, and smooth ride, the boat is built for both speed and comfort, giving guests a professional-level fishing platform. From spot-lock trolling to precision casting, everything onboard is designed to help anglers get the most out of their day. Whether navigating the timber of Lake Fork or chasing schools on open water, this boat ensures a safe, efficient, and enjoyable experience every time Jay takes clients out.

Expert Captain, Jay Bonner- Lake Fork’s Top Fishing Guide Service Operator 

Our Latest News & Updates

Discover Lake Fork's trophy bass on a guided half-day trip. Perfect for beginners with all gear provided. Book now!

Fork Rookie Bass

Best Lake Fork Bass Fishing for Beginners

Book top-rated guided bass fishing trips on Lake Fork. All gear provided. Perfect for beginners and pros alike. Reserve your spot now!

Fork Bass Fun

World-Class Lake Fork Bass Fishing Guide Service

Book premium guided fishing trips on Bois D'Arc Lake. Target trophy bass with expert guides. Full & half-day options available.

Bois DArc Bass

Expert Guided Bois D'Arc Lake Fishing Trips

Experience world-class bass fishing on Lake O.H. Ivie with Jay Bonner's expert guides. Book your Texas adventure today!

Ivie Bass Day

Top-Rated Lake O.H Ivie Fishing Guide | Texas

Full-day Lake Fork bass fishing trip for skilled anglers. Top gear, pro techniques, 2-guest max. Book your trophy hunt now!

Fork Bass Pro

Premier Lake Fork Bass Fishing Experience

We Guide On The Best Bass Lakes In Texas!

Air Fee

Bait Fee

Divemaster Fee

Mate's Fee

Nitrox Fee

Service Fee

State Taxes

Trimix Fee

Spend a full day on legendary Lake Fork targeting trophy largemouth bass with the guidance of an experienced local captain. This trip is designed for skilled anglers who want extended time on the water to refine techniques, locate prime fishing spots, and pursue record-class bass. Your guide will provide top-quality rods, reels, and tackle, along with advanced strategies to match current conditions. You’ll fish from a fully equipped boat, with room for up to two guests, ensuring plenty of personal attention and space to work your lines. Bring your preferred snacks and drinks to enjoy throughout the day while taking in the scenic views of one of Texas’s most famous bass fisheries. Deposits are non-refundable (Trips &amp; Rates Page)

Striped Bass

SKEETER FXR21 APEX

8 hrs 

Lake Fork Full Day Bass Fishing for Skilled Anglers

Explore the beautiful waters as you pursue impressive Striped Bass in prime fishing locations. Our guided trips provide all the essential gear and expert support you need for a successful day on the water—just bring your favorite food and beverages to stay refreshed. Whether you're an experienced angler or trying striped bass fishing for the first time, our knowledgeable guides will ensure an enjoyable and productive outing. Make the most of your fishing experience with top-quality equipment and local insight. Book your Striped Bass fishing trip today and create lasting memories on the water!

4 hrs 

Lake Fork Fishing Guides | Full and Half Day Bass Fishing Trips 

Lake O.H. Ivie bass fishing trips offer an unparalleled adventure for anglers seeking thrilling catches and serene waters. Nestled in the heart of Texas, Lake O.H. Ivie boasts sprawling expanses of pristine water, surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes.

As you embark on your bass fishing expedition, you'll navigate through secluded coves and hidden gems, guided by the expertise of seasoned professionals who know these waters like the back of their hand. Whether you're a novice angler or a seasoned pro, the lake's abundant bass population promises exhilarating battles! 

Lake O.H Ivie Fishing Guides | Full Day Trips 

Spend a fun and productive half day on Lake Fork targeting trophy-sized largemouth bass with the guidance of an experienced local captain. This trip is perfect for beginners, offering easy-to-use gear, patient instruction, and proven techniques to help you hook into quality fish. All rods, reels, and tackle are provided, so you can focus on fishing while your guide shares tips on casting, retrieval, and locating active bass. Bring your favorite snacks and drinks to stay comfortable during the trip, and enjoy the peaceful scenery Lake Fork is famous for. Whether you’re looking to learn the basics or simply enjoy a relaxed morning or afternoon on the water, this guided bass fishing trip delivers a memorable experience. Deposits are non-refundable (Trips &amp; Rates Page)

Lake Fork Half Day Bass Fishing for Beginners

Join us for an unforgettable day on Bois D’Arc Lake, Texas’ newest man-made fishing destination. Known for its abundant trophy-sized Largemouth Bass, this lake offers excellent opportunities for anglers seeking a top-tier catch. Whether you prefer a full-day or half-day guided trip, our experienced guides provide expert techniques and local knowledge to maximize your fishing success. Trips start at $500 for two guests, making it a great value for a premium experience. Don’t miss the chance to fish on this rapidly growing hotspot—reserve your Bois D’Arc Lake fishing trip today and reel in some impressive bass!