Flathead Catfish

Targeting flathead catfish near Leon Valley, Texas, means exploring the deeper holes and submerged timber in the Medina River and Medina Lake. While not as abundant as channel catfish, flatheads in this area can reach impressive sizes. Live bait is key to enticing these ambush predators; sunfish or small bullheads are proven producers. Summer nights are prime time for flathead fishing, as they become more active under the cover of darkness. A practical tip: Access to the Medina River can be limited, so research public access points beforehand. Also, be prepared for some challenging bank fishing conditions. Medina Lake offers better boat access, but be mindful of submerged timber and fluctuating water levels. The flathead population here is known for its resilience, but practicing catch-and-release for larger specimens helps maintain the quality of the fishery.