About the Llano
The Llano River is one of Texas' few remaining wild rivers. Spring-fed, the spectacular Llano flows eastward from West Texas through rural and ranch hill country before it empties into Lake LBJ on the Colorado River. The terrain is rocky and thick with mesquite and cactus.
The rock outcroppings are said to be more than 1 1/2 billion years old (and are the oldest exposed rock on the North American continent). Located more than 100 miles from any major city the sparkling water and clean, dry air make for an incredible river experience with the unexpected bonus of startling nighttime stargazing.
Anglers share the river with other predators: migrating bald and golden eagles, several species of hawks, kingfishers and owls, feral hogs, rattlesnakes, coyotes and all manner of varmints. Wild turkey, quail, dove, white-tail deer, and escaped exotics all inhabit the river bank.
The Llano rolls over solid rock (granite and limestone) with occasional sand and gravel bars. It’s mostly forgiving river bottom combined with clear water makes for reasonably easy wading. Wet wading is comfortable from about April until the first freeze in October or November, then you'll need to strap on the waders. It is a perfect river for fishing from a canoe--and a kayak is even better. Occasional rapids make paddling interesting and there is enough quiet, deep water to hold the plentiful perch and bass.
ACCESS: The Llano is what is termed a navigable stream, and as long as the angler is in the water or its edge, she/he is on public land. Landowners along the river take a dim view of trespassers but often, if you ask, you will be allowed access. Fortunately, there are several convenient public places where you can access the river by boat or wade. Once you are in the water you can sometimes wade for several miles. The James River crossing and the low water bridge at the tiny town of Castell offer great access and good fishing.
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